Assistant Dean for Recruiting & Admissions

About the Position This role is an on‑campus, in‑person position. The position serves as the senior leader responsible for the vision, strategy, and execution of all undergraduate and graduate recruitment and admissions for the Meadows School of the Arts. Full accountability for enrollment outcomes across diverse programs, including dual‑admission disciplines, with significant autonomy in shaping recruitment strategy, admissions processes, and financial aid leveraging. Essential Functions Strategic Leadership & Accountability – Provide vision, leadership, and full accountability for recruitment and admissions outcomes across all undergraduate and graduate Meadows programs. Enrollment Strategy & Execution – Design and implement a comprehensive, data‑driven recruitment and admissions strategy. Admissions Process Oversight – Direct and oversee all Meadows admissions processes, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and alignment with institutional policies, while supporting discipline‑specific requirements such as auditions, portfolios, and faculty review. Faculty & Academic Partnership – Lead and influence division chairs, program directors, and faculty to develop and execute discipline‑specific recruitment strategies. Data, Analytics & Market Intelligence – Leverage data, analytics, and market research to inform strategy, monitor performance, and provide actionable insights to the Dean and academic leadership. Team Leadership & Operations – Lead, manage, and develop a high‑performing recruitment and admissions team. Marketing, Outreach & Representation – Oversee recruitment communications, events, and outreach, and represent Meadows at institutional and national levels. Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Resource Management – Collaborate with university partners, oversee recruitment‑related resources and budgets. Occasional evening/weekend hours will be required. Frequent travel will be required for student recruitment and conferences. Education and Experience A Master's degree required. A degree in Arts (performing or visual), Communications or Education is preferred. Minimum six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in higher education admissions, recruitment, or enrollment management, including experience in arts or specialized admissions environments. Minimum four (4) years of leadership experience, including supervision of professional staff and management of complex teams or functions. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate broadly across the University. Strong written communication skills. Strong problem‑solving skills, ability to identify and analyze problems and devise solutions. Strong organizational, planning and time‑management skills. Strategic leadership and decision‑making authority in complex academic environments. Advanced analytical skills with ability to translate data into actionable enrollment strategies. Deep understanding of enrollment trends and competitive landscape. Understanding of dual‑admission or portfolio/audition‑based admissions processes. Ability to collaborate with and influence faculty and senior academic leadership. Proficiency with admissions CRM systems such as Slate and data analysis tools; advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook. Familiarity with data visualization and reporting tools. Ability to learn and leverage new technologies and systems that enhance recruitment, admissions operations, and enrollment strategy (plus). Physical and Environmental Demands Sit for long periods of time. Bend, climb, stand, kneel. Carry/lift 25 lbs. Deadline to Apply Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by April 30, 2026. This position is open until filled. EEO Statement SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. Benefits SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits. #J-18808-Ljbffr Southern Methodist University