Country Manager, India

About International Business University (IBU)

International Business University is Ontario's pioneering independent not-for-profit university, accredited fully since 2020 and designated a DLI in 2023. It models innovation and agility inspired by leading global independent universities. IBU emphasizes a student-centered, industry-aligned education combining rigorous academics with skill-building, addressing future workforce demands and advancing emerging technologies.

Position Overview

The Country Manager for India serves as IBU's senior representative responsible for leading strategic development, market growth, institution partnerships, and operational management across India. This full-time (40 hours/week) contract role supports student recruitment, transnational education initiatives, partnership building, employer engagement, and compliance management of IBU's Indian operations. The role liaises with universities, regulatory bodies, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to ensure successful achievement of IBU’s goals in the Indian market.

Key Duties

• Drive strategic expansion and market development in India
• Establish and nurture university partnerships and transnational education opportunities
• Lead student recruitment efforts and business growth
• Manage relations with government and regulatory authorities
• Oversee India office operations ensuring compliance
• Engage employers and industry stakeholders to expand networks
• Activate and maintain strategic partnerships
• Facilitate student mobility programs
• Conduct university outreach activities
• Monitor and report on performance metrics

Success Metrics

• Achievement of recruitment targets
• Effective establishment and operation of IBU Learning Hubs in collaboration with partner universities
• Development of robust partnerships
• Successful government engagement
• Expansion of employer networks
• Active university collaborations
• Efficient operational and regulatory compliance management

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Business, Higher Education, International Education, Marketing, Public Administration, or a related field
• At least 10 years in leadership roles within higher education, international partnerships, business or market development
• Proven experience managing strategic partnerships and stakeholder relations
• Strong knowledge of India’s higher education and regulatory environment
• Experience collaborating with government and senior institutional leaders
• Preferred: Experience in transnational education programs and accreditation processes
• Familiarity with international higher education quality assurance frameworks is advantageous

Core Competencies

• Expertise in higher education sector dynamics
• Strategic partnership management and business development skills
• Governmental and regulatory engagement proficiency
• Project, operational, and financial management capabilities
• Excellent written and oral communication
• Strong commercial sense, negotiation, and influencing abilities
• Initiative, accountability, and organizational skills
• Cross-cultural communication and stakeholder management
• Analytical and decision-making aptitude

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Works closely with executive leadership, academic teams, marketing, finance, legal advisors, government bodies, accreditation entities, university and industry partners, and education agents

Additional Details

This position blends growth-oriented responsibilities with operational leadership and institutional representation, making it crucial for IBU’s advancement in India. The role is for an existing vacancy and remains open until filled, contingent on budget approval.

Application Information

Applicants must submit a resume and concise cover letter outlining their suitability and motivations for joining this dynamic organization. Materials should be submitted as a single PDF file with identifiable filenames.

Equal Opportunity and Inclusion

IBU embraces Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, fostering a welcoming environment for all candidates. It is an equal-opportunity employer encouraging applicants from underrepresented groups. Accommodations during recruitment are available on request.

Use of AI in Recruitment

AI tools may assist in screening and assessments but do not replace human judgment. The university commits to fair and responsible AI usage complying with employment laws and regularly evaluates these tools to avoid bias.