Position Summary: The General Manager of Student Services is responsible for overseeing the student services department of a study abroad company, which includes managing teams handling visa processing, student admissions, and all aspects related to the student journey from initial inquiry to post-arrival support. This role involves leadership, strategic planning, operational oversight, and direct involvement in the enhancement of student experience throughout their study abroad process. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Team Management: Lead, mentor, and manage a team of professionals within the admissions and visa processing departments. Develop and implement performance metrics, KPIs, and professional development plans for team members. Ensure smooth coordination between the admissions, visa, and student support teams to deliver a seamless experience for students. Admissions Management: Oversee the admissions process for various international universities, ensuring compliance with deadlines, requirements, and procedures. Provide guidance on university selection, application processes, and ensure students receive accurate and timely information about programs, scholarships, and funding options. Monitor and improve the student intake process, ensuring efficiency and clarity for all parties involved. Visa Services Oversight: Manage the visa application process, ensuring students meet all necessary requirements for obtaining a student visa for their host country. Collaborate with immigration lawyers, embassies, and government agencies to stay updated on changing visa regulations and procedures. Oversee the visa preparation team to ensure that applications are completed accurately and submitted on time. Student Experience & Support: Develop and implement initiatives to enhance student satisfaction, engagement, and retention throughout their study abroad journey. Ensure effective pre-departure orientation programs, including cultural adaptation, visa counseling, travel advice, and student safety measures. Coordinate with destination support teams to ensure students are well-supported after arrival, addressing any issues related to accommodation, university registration, or social integration. Operational & Strategic Oversight: Monitor and streamline operational processes within the student services division, identifying and implementing improvements to optimize efficiency and reduce costs. Prepare and manage budgets for the department, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately and cost-effectively. Ensure compliance with relevant local, regional, and international regulations, including educational standards, student welfare, and data protection. Reporting & Analysis: Regularly report to senior management on the performance of the student services department, highlighting areas for improvement and success. Analyze student feedback, admissions data, and visa processing timelines to assess the effectiveness of current procedures and identify opportunities for enhancement. Collaboration with Marketing and Sales: Work closely with the marketing and sales teams to ensure that students are provided with accurate, relevant, and up-to-date information about available programs and destinations. Participate in promotional events, student fairs, and webinars to help attract potential students and grow the business. Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain relationships with university partners, educational institutions, embassies, government bodies, and other key stakeholders to ensure efficient service delivery. Represent the company at educational conferences and networking events to promote services and expand professional relationships. Qualifications: Education: Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Education, or a related field. Experience: At least 5–7 years of experience in a leadership or managerial role in the study abroad or education services sector, with a focus on student admissions, visa services, or international student support.
Job Title
General Manager – Student Services (Study Abroad)