Manager of Graduate and Seminary Academic Advising

About Bethel University

●      Strategic Planning: Contribute to the broader advising unit’s strategic plan and lead all work specific to the unit.

●      Metrics & Assessment: Track unit goals and oversee the compilation of data regarding student-advisor interactions, advisor performance, and student persistence.

●      Retention Research: Implement best practices and align unit policies with current research on student retention, completion, and change management.

●      Resource Management: Grow and maintain advising resources specific to student needs while contributing to the department’s general resource library.

●      Supervision & Growth: Supervise, hire, train, and mentor a team of Advising Specialists; and conduct performance evaluations.

●      Culture & Development: Build a cohesive unit culture and lead the planning and execution of professional development initiatives for staff.

●      Continuous Improvement: Stay current on innovative advising strategies and higher education developments to apply directly to student interactions.

●      Program Liaison: Act as a primary resource for Program Directors and Department Chairs, supporting them and Advising Specialists with complex academic policy questions.

●      Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the Registrar, Director of Early College, Career Development, Admissions, and Faculty on special projects and student services.

●      Recruitment: Direct the unit's involvement in university-wide recruitment efforts and represent the advising department in ad hoc committee meetings.

●      Communication Oversight: Manage all communication streams tailored specifically to the unit.

●      Advising Excellence: Maintain a caseload performing all duties of an Advising Specialist, including degree planning and proactive outreach

●      Escalation Support: Serve as the second-tier point of contact for complex learner concerns and interdepartmental  alignment challenges.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree

Experience:

• Demonstrated strong and progressive leadership responsibilities in academic advising or higher education administration, with at experience in a supervisory or lead capacity.
• Understanding of the unique lifecycle and needs of early college, and online learners.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to navigate complex organizational hierarchies and "bridge" departments.