You are proactive, enjoy making connections with people, thoughtful and objective, and believe in the transformative power of an independent education.

In the all important profession of admissions and enrollment management, your believe in independent schools and in the ideas and missions of these institutions finds expression as you engage with prospective students and their families. If you have an interest in being both on the public facing side of a school and in a role that is essential to the health of the institution, a position as an admissions officer at an independent school could be the great fit.

Working in Admissions at an Independent School

Admissions officers (admissions officers, assistant directors, international admissions, associate directors, financial aid officers , directors of admission and directors of enrollment management) at independent schools have remarkable impact on their institutions. They conduct outreach and recruitment for mission compatible students, and then select those who coalesce into a diverse, talented group that, at its very best, brings excellence and vibrancy to the classroom and the learning community. Admissions teams at independent schools range in size from 2 to 20 professionals and staff (boarding schools tend to have larger teams). Each team member must contribute to creative marketing, statistical analysis, targeted communications, enrollment management strategies, and of course, recruiting.  Admissions departments increasingly employ social media to connect with families and, more directly, with prospective students.

The Director of Admissions or Director of Enrollment Management is a key member of any independent school’s leadership team. This individual communicates admissions office data and ensures that the school’s mission and values drive the work of the department. Individuals in this role and this department are not only directly responsible for the smooth operation of the office and the achievement of annual enrollment goals, but also the ensured success and longevity of the school itself.

Finding Admissions Jobs with CS&A

The CS&A Admissions Placement Team works with schools to recruit admissions professionals – or those interested in the profession – at all levels. Many members of the profession migrate from teaching or other administrative roles because their schools value their authenticity, clarity of communication, warm demeanor, and drive. Many Heads of School have served in an admissions role at some point in their careers. The profession is packed with positive, outgoing, energetic people who enjoy others, work hard, and enjoy each part of this important process. Some choose to remain in the profession for years – or their career while other may choose to do so for only a few years before changing to another school role – or even moving to the college ranks.

We encourage you to apply for candidacy if your qualifications expressly include some or all of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (A master’s degree is welcomed!)
• Experience with or interest in recruitment, admissions, or a similar field
• Skill or interest in public relations, communications, parent relations, strategic marketing, board relations, or school management
• An engaging, positive attitude and creative, personable demeanor
• Skills, talents, and flexibility for contributing to the team and to the school community in additional capacities. For example: coaching, advising, overseeing extracurricular activities, supervising a dorm at a boarding school, etc.
• Ability to communicate, self-organize, meet deadlines, and accomplish varied tasks independently.
• Experience in recruitment techniques using digital marketing social media.

Interested Candidates Should Contact

Ben Bolté

Practice Leader, Key Administrator Practice, Senior Consultant

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