How to Apply for the Role of Director of Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) at UC Davis Global Affairs: An International Education Perspective

Are you an inspiring leader with expertise in immigration services and a passion for international education? UC Davis Global Affairs is seeking a Director of Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS), responsible for guiding a team that supports over 9,000 international students, scholars, faculty, and staff across the Davis and Sacramento campuses. This is your opportunity to make a global impact at one of the most renowned institutions in higher education.

Key Responsibilities of the Role:

• Oversee immigration advising and compliance services to ensure the highest level of professionalism and accuracy for our international community.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive work environment by leading and mentoring a dedicated team of staff.
• Develop and strengthen partnerships across UC Davis and with national and international networks to enhance the university’s global profile.
• Advance efforts for international student recruitment, retention, and engagement while promoting opportunities for global connections on campus.

Who Should Apply?
This role is ideal for experienced professionals with a background in international education, immigration policy, and leadership. If you are an excellent communicator, skilled at building bridges and creating supportive ecosystems for international students and scholars, this position could be perfect for you. Specific qualities we are looking for include:

• Expertise in immigration services: Leadership experience managing visa processes (e.g., F-1, J-1).
• Strong management and mentoring skills: Ability to foster professional growth within a collaborative and diverse team.
• A global mindset: A deep commitment to advancing internationalization in higher education.
• Strategy and initiative: Proven success in developing programs or policies that bolster international recruitment and retention efforts.

International Education Perspective: Tips for Approaching Your Application

• Tailor your resume/CV thoughtfully: Highlight your leadership in international education, immigration compliance, or global engagement strategies. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate impact (e.g., “Managed immigration services for 5,000 students, ensuring 100% compliance with federal regulations”).

• Showcase cultural competency: Provide examples where you’ve worked effectively with diverse communities, built global partnerships, or facilitated international programming that created inclusive and welcoming environments.

• Include language and intercultural skills: If you bring multilingual capabilities or an understanding of various cultural contexts, be sure to emphasize these in your application. They are highly valuable in this role.

• Write a compelling cover letter: Use your cover letter to articulate your passion for international education and how your specific skills align with the mission of UC Davis Global Affairs. Draw connections between your experiences and the key responsibilities of the position.

• Familiarize yourself with UC Davis’s mission and current initiatives: Explore the university’s goals related to globalization and look for ways to link your professional ethos to its guiding principles. For example, UC Davis is dedicated to fostering global engagement and sustainability, so reflect on how your work has contributed to similar objectives.

• Use the official online application portal carefully: All applications must be submitted via the UC Davis job portal. Ensure that you complete each step thoroughly and upload all necessary documents (resume/CV, cover letter, references, etc.). Missing materials could result in your application being overlooked.

Application Deadline: September 20, 2025 – submit your materials as early as possible to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Apply Here: <a href="https://careerspub.universityofcalifornia.edu/psp/ucdavis/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRSHRAMFL.HRSCGSEARCHFL?Page=HRSAPPJBPSTFL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=7&JobOpeningId=80621&PostingSeq=1″>UC Davis Job Portal

Why This Role Matters
Working in this position means not only joining a world-class institution but also shaping the global future of UC Davis. With its vibrant, diverse campus community, UC Davis is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for international students and scholars. As Director of SISS, you’ll contribute directly to this goal by ensuring a seamless immigration experience and supporting international voices academically, culturally, and socially. Your leadership will have a lasting influence on the university’s global engagement efforts and its standing as a leader in international education.

Final Advice for Candidates:
If you are passionate about global collaboration, committed to supporting international students and scholars, and excited by the opportunity to influence the global mission of a prestigious research university, don’t hesitate to apply. Be authentic in showcasing how your unique experiences and vision can advance UC Davis’s international reach. Good luck!