Vice Chancellor for External Relations | Office of External Relations

The Vice Chancellor for External Relations is a senior executive role responsible for overseeing and advancing the university's global presence, strategic communication, institutional fundraising, executive and continuing education, and alumni engagement. This role is pivotal in fostering external partnerships and educational offerings, enhancing the university's reputation, overseeing philanthropic giving and fundraising for the endowment, and strengthening relationships with alumni. The Vice Chancellor will work closely with university leadership to develop and implement strategies that align with the institution's mission and goals.

Job Responsibilities

• International Affairs:
  • Oversee the development and implementation of strategies to enhance the university's global presence and reputation.
  • Oversee international partnerships, collaborations, and agreements, including strategic oversight of the International Exchange Office, which serves student mobility.
  • Represent the university at international conferences, events, and forums.
  • Oversee international student recruitment and support initiatives.
  • Oversee collaborations with academic and research units to promote global opportunities and initiatives.
• Strategic Communication:
  • Oversee the comprehensive communication strategies to enhance the university’s image and brand.
  • Oversee the creation and dissemination of key messages, press releases, and promotional materials.
  • Oversee coordination with internal and external stakeholders to ensure consistent and effective communication across all platforms.
  • Oversee and analyze public perception and media coverage to inform strategic adjustments.
• Alumni Affairs:
  • Oversee the development and implementation of strategies to engage and strengthen relationships with alumni.
  • Oversee the organization of alumni events, networking opportunities, and professional development programs.
  • Oversee collaborations with alumni chapters and organizations globally to foster a strong alumni network.
  • Oversee alumni fundraising efforts and work closely with the development team to support university advancement goals.
  • Oversee the maintenance and enhancement of alumni databases and communication channels.

• Executive and Continuing Education (ECE):
  • Oversee the building and delivery of a diverse portfolio of externally focused program offerings.
  • Leverage AUS’ executive and continuing education capabilities to build and support a lifelong learning community in Sharjah and the UAE, and to significantly impact the local economy.
  • Oversee the establishment of collaborative relationships with leading organizations in the UAE and the region, to ensure ECE programs are aligned with current and future industry needs.

• Philanthropy/Institutional Development:
  • Develop and implement a strategic alumni engagement strategy to build a global community of alumni, donors, volunteers, supporters, and partners, which includes events, lifelong learning, online communities, career services, awards, and alumni services.
  • Develop and implement best practice institutional advancement and alumni relations policies on accepting donations, donor and alumni recognition, alumni communication and records practices, advancement-related government relations, alumni events, and technology.
  • Work synergetically with internal stakeholders to establish and deliver an annual schedule of events and activities to increase involvement in AUS campus life by alumni, staff, donors, corporate partners, parents, and community stakeholders.

Qualifications and Skills Required

• Master’s degree in international relations, communications, business administration, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive leadership experience in external relations, strategic communication, or a related area.
• Proven track record in managing international partnerships and global outreach initiatives.
• Strong background in strategic communication, including media relations and brand management.
• Demonstrated success in alumni engagement and development, including fundraising experience.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and navigate complex organizational environments.
• A minimum of seven years of experience in alumni relations, event management, partnership development, or fundraising, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strategic thinker with a global perspective and a commitment to advancing the university’s mission.
• Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to inspire and guide a team.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity.
• Proactive, results-oriented, and capable of working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Doctoral degree preferred.
• Experience of strategy, delivery, and operational success in a higher education setting.

How to Apply

• Interested applicants should fill out the form.
• AUS alumni are encouraged to apply. 
• Applicants who do not meet specified requirements will not be shortlisted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• AUS is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability or marital status. Opportunities for employment are based solely upon one’s qualifications.