Gardner-Webb University (GWU) seeks a seasoned, successful and energetic chief admissions officer to lead all traditional first-year and transfer enrollment strategies and recruitment activities. Reporting directly to the VP for Enrollment Management, the AVP will join a team of senior officers in the Enrollment Management Division, comprised of traditional undergraduate programs, Graduate programs, Degree Completion programs, and student financial planning.
The next AVP for Undergraduate Admissions will possess the appropriate skills, knowledge and professional demeanor that fit well within a complex university environment that offers high-quality academic programs (baccalaureate through doctoral) in traditional, hybrid and online formats on our main campus and at educational centers throughout North Carolina.
A minimum of 8 years of direct experience in enrollment management in non-profit higher education, a bachelor’s degree and a valid driverâs license are required. Candidates with significant experience in a private college or university setting will be given preference.
Primary Responsibilities
- Serves as a Christian role model for students, administrators, faculty, staff, and community members
- Supervise, recruit, train, lead, and retain a highly motivated and expert team of staff members committed to the mission and identity of Gardner Webb University and the success of its students
- Define enrollment goals in consultation with the Vice President for Enrollment Management and devise, implement, and assess strategies and plans to meet those goals
- Collaborate with the Director of Enrollment Communications in the development of focused and effective marketing and recruiting plans to meet enrollment
- Establishes systems and structures to aid in enrollment planning and decision making at all levels that lead to a continuous institution wide conversation as related to enrollment
- Establish and maintain necessary relationships with both internal and external stakeholders that will support the student recruitment experience and enrollment growth for both first-year and transfer students
- Directs the undergraduate recruiting process from point of prospect development through enrollment
- Remains current in understanding use of new technology and approaches utilized in college admissions
- Contributes to the development of annual enrollment management division plans that are consistent with the mission and strategic plan for the University
- Develops and manages a multi-year strategy for student recruitment to include travel planning, campus visitation and events
- Collaborates with the Director of Financial Planning to ensure the strategic use of institutional financial aid achieves enrollment and revenue goals
- Analyzes data and the current recruitment landscape to inform decision-making and evaluate current strategy to respond to changing markets and applicant pools
- Manages significant admissions budget with respect to University goals and guidelines
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Bachelorâs degree from a regionally accredited institution in higher education, management, marketing or related field required, masters preferred
- A minimum of 8 years of enrollment experience in a university environment
- A record of enrollment growth is expected
SKILLS:
- Strong ability to interact and communicate effectively
- Possess strong written, oral, and analytical skills
- Demonstrated planning and exceptional organizational skills
- Excellent supervisory, team building, customer service and leadership skills
- Ability to think strategically
Founded by North Carolina Baptists in 1905, Gardner-Webb University employs individuals who participate in and wholeheartedly support Christian values.
To Apply:
A letter of interest, resume, and contact information for at least three professional references should be sent to:
Mrs. Kristen Setzer
Vice President for Enrollment Management
Gardner-Webb University
PO Box 817
Boiling Springs, NC 28017
ksetzer@gardner-webb.edu
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.