The Center Director (CD) leads SIT’s Austria-based programs, overseeing academic quality, operations, and student services. The CD will manage the semester program Vienna, Budapest, and Belgrade: Comparative European Perspectives on Conflict and Democracy and a diverse portfolio of experiential learning programs, ensuring alignment with SIT’s mission of academic excellence and community engagement.
Responsibilities include:
Academic Program Management: Oversee curriculum design, teach one course per semester, and guide student research projects and internships. Ensure academic rigor and experiential learning components align with SIT standards;
Student Services: Provide academic advising, cross-cultural guidance, and student well-being support in collaboration with SIT’s Office of Student Health, Safety, and Well-Being;
Operations & Compliance: Manage center operations, finances, and local partnerships. Ensure compliance with local laws and SIT policies;
Human Resources: Recruit, supervise, and support faculty and staff, fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment;
Health, Safety & Security: Implement SIT health and safety protocols, act as the primary contact for student emergencies, and maintain contingency plans;
Community Engagement: Build partnerships with local organizations, promote SIT’s mission, and integrate community-based learning into the curriculum;
Marketing: Support the production of SIT promotional materials by providing updates, content, and other information as requested;
Other: Participate as needed and possibly present at conferences or at other professional meetings; other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Terminal degree in Political Science, History, Peace Studies, European Studies, or related field;
Minimum 3 years of experience in academic program management, program administration, experiential education, or international higher education;
Fluency in English; German proficiency preferred;
Demonstrated commitment to inclusive education and student well-being;
Legal right to work and reside in Austria;
Academic and practical knowledge of Austria;
Knowledge of Eastern Europe or comparative politics desirable.