International Programs and Partnerships Officer

Job Summary: The Officer, International Partnerships & Programs, is responsible for coordinating, managing, and supporting the University’s collaborative activity with partner institutions, faculty mobility initiatives and Dual Degree Program Development. This role requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills, with an emphasis on developing and sustaining high-value partnerships aligned with Ajman University’s internationalization strategy and Ministry of Education KPIs. The Manager will oversee high-level delegations, institutional agreements, faculty-related mobility programs, and the development of Dual Degree Programs while mentoring and supporting junior team members.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, negotiate, and edit international agreements in collaboration with the Vice Chancellors Office and Legal Office and with other AU stakeholders.
• Support the Director of OIAA in all aspects of partnership activity, undertaking specific projects and providing strategic briefings.
• Build, manage, and maintain a global network of academic partners, identifying opportunities and risks for AU.
• Benchmark and evaluate potential partners against institutional KPIs (THE/QS Top 200 focus, research potential, funding, student mobility, etc.).
• Organize and manage high-profile incoming and outgoing delegations and visits at senior leadership level.
• Monitor and review the performance and value of international partnerships, producing reports for leadership.
• Implement academic partnerships evaluation Due Diligence practices.
• Support the establishment and activation of joint/dual program agreements and research collaborations.
• Coordinate faculty exchange and short-term faculty mobility programs.
• Supervise partnership databases, contract records, and ensure compliance.
• Mentor and guide coordinators, part-time staff, and interns within OIAA.
• Provide excellent service to all internal and external constituents.
• Represent OIAA in committees, events, and conferences as required.
• Support the Director in all administrative operations.QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, International Business, Higher Education Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 4 years’ directly relevant experience in international partnerships, program management, in higher education.
• Experience supervising staff and managing multiple complex projects in cross-cultural environments.KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Excellent communication skills in English (oral & written); Arabic proficiency is an advantage.
• Strong negotiation, presentation, and public speaking skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of international higher education systems, rankings, and partnership models.
• High-level organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and diplomacy.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and travel internationally, when required.

Reporting to: Director of Office of International Academic Affairs