Director of Admissions and Financial Aid

About the Organization

Asian University for Women (AUW), located in Chittagong, Bangladesh, is an internationally recognized residential university providing undergraduate education in the liberal arts and sciences and a series of graduate professional programs. We believe in the transformative power of education to reshape societies and uplift communities. The university is currently seeking a Director of Admissions & Financial Aid to lead a major leap in enrolment of students from diverse socio-economic, national, religious and cultural backgrounds. As the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, you will play a pivotal role in selecting and supporting the next generation of women leaders who will drive positive change across Asia and beyond. 

AUW is an emblem of diversity as it admits students from both traditional and non-traditional backgrounds from 22 different countries, actively seeking talent in every form and not be captive of only those that are traditionally marked for university entrance. AUW students demonstrate intellectual maturity and leadership potential, evidenced by their courage, their outrage at injustice, and their deep empathy for the struggles of others. 

AUW aims to sustain and further develop its diversity through a celebration of multiple cultures and religious affinities as well as philosophical viewpoints. Its charter, as adopted by the Parliament of Bangladesh, guarantees academic freedom and institutional autonomy. This role is based in Chittagong, Bangladesh, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic community. As part of the AUW team, you will work in an international, residential campus environment that fosters collaboration, learning, and growth 

Position Overview

We seek a leader of exceptional talent in spotting extraordinariness in young people who is willing to travel far and wide in the search for such talents. Any endeavor of such type is necessary risk ridden. We encourage individuals who will dare to go the extra mile to look for and congregate the most extraordinary group of young women from across Asia and, over time, from Africa as well who are likely to remake this world into a better place for all. 

Total student enrolment is expected to rise from 1700 to 2800 within four years. With at least 50% of the students being on financial aid, the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid is the key player in making the most significant “investment” decisions that AUW would routinely make. The Director will work collaboratively across departments to achieve ambitious goals in recruitment and financial aid, with a focus on ensuring AUW’s mission is reflected in every aspect of their work. 

Qualities:

• A clear thinker, flexible in approach and willing to learn from calculated risks.
• Superbly organized ensuring that back-office records are impeccably reviewed and preserved.
• Has a penchant for scouring data to understand which approaches work better.
• An innovative leader with a passion for education, a strategic mindset, and a commitment to equity and social justice.
• Passionate about AUW’s mission and has the hunger to produce results that will make the mission of this enterprise worthwhile.

Role & Responsibilities: 

The Director of Admissions and Financial Aid will be responsible for:

• Strategic Recruitment Planning
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive, multi-geography strategic plan for recruiting students from diverse backgrounds.
• Admissions Policy
  • Organize a thorough examination of existing student assessment tools with the aid of global experts and revise them to identify students beyond traditional academic metrics, such as English-language proficiency. Develop alternative assessments that recognize leadership potential, resilience, and social impact.
• Financial Aid Management
  • Oversee the distribution of need-based scholarships, ensuring transparency and fairness in the allocation process. Work closely with the finance department to manage the financial aid budget.
• Data-Driven Decision Making
  • Continuously analyze and evaluate recruitment and admissions data to refine strategies and improve outcomes. Leverage data analytics to identify trends, optimize processes, and ensure that recruitment efforts align with AUW’s mission and goals.
• Building and Maintaining External Relationships
  • Cultivate relationships with schools, NGOs, community organizations, and government bodies across Asia and Africa to build a robust pipeline of prospective students.
• Team Leadership and Development
  • Lead and mentor the admissions and financial aid teams, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment. Provide professional development opportunities to staff to enhance their skills and ensure they remain abreast of best practices.
• Compliance and Reporting
  • Ensure that all admissions and financial aid processes comply with university policies and external regulatory requirements. Prepare regular reports on admissions and financial aid activities, outcomes, and trends for the university leadership.
• Student Retention Support
  • Work closely with the academic and student affairs departments to support student retention initiatives, particularly for those receiving financial aid, ensuring that students have the resources and support needed to succeed at AUW. 

Requirements

• Education: Master’s degree required.
• Skills: Strategic planning, data analysis, leadership, communication, cultural competency, technological proficiency.
• Attributes: Passion for education, innovation, adaptability, global perspective, ethical decision-making.
• Travel: Willingness to travel extensively.
• Languages: Proficiency in English required, additional languages preferred. 

To Apply: Please send your CV and cover letter to hr@asian-university.org