OPERATIONS DIVISION
VACANCY NO: COO/IO01/2026
The University of Botswana invites suitably qualified and visionary candidates to apply for the position of Director, International Education Office, reporting to the Chief Operations Officer. The successful candidate will provide strategic and operational leadership to drive the University’s internationalisation agenda, ensuring that the institution strengthens its global footprint, competitiveness, and partnerships.
PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The Director is responsible for leading and managing the University’s internationalisation efforts. This includes integrating international dimensions into teaching, learning, research, and support services; fostering global partnerships; overseeing international student marketing, recruitment, and financial administration; and ensuring the strategic and operational success of the International Education Office in alignment with the University’s mission and goals.
KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS
The Director will lead the following core areas:
1. Strategy and Policy
- Develop, implement, and monitor a comprehensive internationalisation strategic plan, policies, and procedures.
- Drive innovation, continuous improvement, and alignment with the University’s strategic direction.
2. International Partnerships
- Build and sustain value‑adding global partnerships with universities, agencies, and organisations.
- Strengthen collaboration in research, student and staff mobility, joint programmes, and international academic initiatives.
- Represent the University at high‑level international platforms and engagements.
3. Marketing, Recruitment and Administration
- Lead international student recruitment strategies and global marketing campaigns.
- Enhance UB’s global brand presence and optimise recruitment processes to attract diverse, high‑quality student cohorts.
- Oversee international admissions, visas, enrolment, and events promoting UB globally.
4. Customer and Stakeholder Experience
- Promote superior service experiences for international students and stakeholders.
- Strengthen stakeholder relationships internally and externally to advance internationalisation goals.
5. Risk Management and Compliance
- Manage the Office’s risk register, audits, and compliance with relevant legislation, including international education regulations.
- Implement corrective measures to strengthen governance and operational controls.
6. People Management
- Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse and high‑performing team, including managers within the International Office.
- Support professional development and uphold statutory labour and HR policy requirements.
7. Financial Management
- Develop and manage the International Office budget; ensure sound financial stewardship.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Qualifications
- A Master’s Degree in International Relations, Education, or a related field is required.
- A PhD in a relevant field is preferred.
Experience
- Minimum of ten (10) years relevant experience, including at least five (5) years at middle‑management or sectional head level.
- Higher Education experience is required.
- Applicants must demonstrate proven experience in establishing or significantly restructuring an International Office or equivalent internationalisation function within a higher education environment.
This includes setting up systems, policies, governance structures, processes, and partnerships necessary to operationalise an institution’s internationalisation agenda.
Other Requirements
- Demonstrated leadership experience in international higher education.
- Strong knowledge of global education trends, international recruitment strategies, and international office administrative best practices.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, diplomatic, and cross‑cultural competencies.
- Ability to create and align marketing efforts with recruitment goals and to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for international students.
COMPETENCIES
Candidates must demonstrate competencies including but not limited to:
Leadership & Strategy, Stakeholder Engagement, Change & Transformation, Analytical Thinking, Decision‑Making, Emotional Intelligence, Coalition Building, Resource Management, Financial Management, Communication, and Resilience.
Remuneration: The University of Botswana offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit:
- A letter of application addressing the requirements, quoting the vacancy number
- A detailed CV
- Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts
- Three (3) reference letters (referees to submit directly, quoting the vacancy number)
Applications to:
Office of the Chief Operations Officer
University of Botswana
Private Bag 0022, Gaborone
Tel: (+267) 3552120 / 4742
Email: rakgoasilh@ub.ac.bw.
Hand‑delivered applications: Office No. 313/304, 3rd Floor, Administration Building.
NB: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Closing Date: 18 May 2026