Executive Director, Global Engagement
University of Waterloo View all jobs
- Waterloo, ON
- $131,704-164,630 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
The internal posting deadline for this position is Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 11:59PMJob Description:Primary PurposeThe Executive Director, University Global Engagement, leads the strategic advancement of the University of Waterloo’s internationalization efforts. This role drives the development of academic institutional (MOU) partnerships, mobility programs, revenue generation through enrolment priorities aligned with the internationalization strategy while enhancing the university’s global reputation and supporting institutional goals under the Waterloo at 100 strategic plan.Key AccountabilitiesStrategic Leadership
- Coordinate the activities of the Global Engagement Steering Committee, including senior university leaders, supporting its role in determining institutional international strategy, setting priorities, and monitoring progress.
- Advance the university’s international priorities across five Global Futures domains: Societal, Health, Sustainable, Technological, and Economic futures.
- Integrate global perspectives into institutional planning and decision-making in collaboration with senior leadership.
- Lead the development, negotiation, and oversight of international exchange agreements and x+y articulation agreements with prioritized global partner institutions based on the international strategy.
- Ensure alignment of mobility programs with academic standards, student experience goals, and strategic international priorities, in consultation with appropriate bodies across campus.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of international academic partnerships and mobility programs and recommend improvements.
- Coordinate executive travel to priority regions for student recruitment, revenue, and strategic partnership development, ensuring alignment with institutional goals.
- Collaborate with Advancement and Alumni Relations.
- Provide briefing materials and post-visit reports to support strategic follow-up and relationship building.
- Oversee Waterloo’s participation in programs such as ERASMUS+, Global Affairs Canada International Scholarships, Global Skills Opportunity, Queen Elizabeth Scholars.
- Coordinate the activities of the Global Emergency Relief Student Fund, supporting the creation and maintenance of terms of reference, coordination with RO and GSPA on administration of fund, and with Advancement on expanding the fund.
- Engage with external stakeholders to advance Waterloo’s internationalization efforts and strategy (e.g., Canadian Bureau for International Education, Universities Canada, etc.).
- Engage internal stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students to promote global opportunities and build capacity for international collaboration.
- Support advancement and alumni relations in global contexts.
- Lead strategic communications to enhance Waterloo’s global brand and visibility.
- Develop outreach campaigns to promote international programs and achievements.
- Serve as a spokesperson for global engagement initiatives.
- Master’s or doctoral degree in international relations, global studies, higher education leadership, or a related field.
- Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience in international education, global strategy, or academic administration.
- Proven track record of developing and managing international partnerships and programs.
- Strong understanding of global higher education trends, policy environments, and intercultural dynamics.
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Experience working in a research-intensive university.
- Familiarity with Canadian and international funding mechanisms.
- Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation in global contexts.