Director - Housing & Residence Life

Job Summary

This position provides direction and management oversight to one or more departments or units. Plan, direct, and coordinate operational activities.

Based on the recent Proclamation: Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers (H-1B), VSU will not be sponsoring any new H-1B visa petitions until further notice.

Responsibilities

Department Summary

The Director of Housing & Residence Life plays a vital role in shaping the residential experience for students at Valdosta State University. The successful candidate will bring a leadership approach grounded in collaboration, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to student success.

The Director is expected to lead a comprehensive residential program that supports student development while ensuring effective management of housing operations, facilities partnerships, and residential safety.

Housing & Residence Life is an important component of the Valdosta State student experience. The university seeks a Director who is excited to invest in the continued growth of the residential program and build sustained relationships with students, staff, and campus partners.

The Director is supported by a collaborative University leadership team committed to strengthening the residential experience for VSU students.

Typical Allocation of Duties:

• Accomplish department/unit objectives - 25% Direct the human, financial, and other resources needed to accomplish objectives of the department or unit.
• Monitor and establish processes - 20% Monitor and establish processes to ensure effectiveness, efficiency, and alignment with University and department goals.
• Direct operations - 20% Direct the operations of the department or unit.
• Area Representative - 15% Represent the department or unit to internal and external groups and individuals.
• Manage budget - 10% Manage the department/unit budget.
• Compliance - 10% Ensure commitment to and compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards.

Supervisor Expectations:

The successful candidate will be expected to:

Lead a Student-Centered Residential Experience

• Foster residential communities that support student belonging, engagement, and academic success.
• Ensure residence halls are environments where students feel safe, supported, and connected to the broader university community.
• Integrate residential life programming with institutional goals related to retention, student engagement, and student success.

Build and Sustain a Strong Professional Team

• Provide leadership and mentorship for professional staff and student staff across the housing operation.
• Establish clear expectations, accountability, and professional development opportunities for team members.
• Cultivate a team culture grounded in professionalism, responsiveness, and collaboration.

Manage Complex Housing Operations

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of university housing, including occupancy management, assignments, and operational systems.
• Utilize housing management systems and data analytics to inform decision-making and improve operational effectiveness.
• Partner closely with facilities, dining services, and auxiliary units to ensure high-quality residential environments.

Lead in Crisis Response and Student Safety

• Serve as a key leader in responding to student crises and residential emergencies.
• Work collaboratively with campus partners including student conduct, public safety, and counseling services to support student well-being and community standards.
• Maintain readiness for emergency response situations impacting residential students.

Provide Strategic and Financial Stewardship

• Manage housing resources responsibly while maintaining a strong focus on service quality and sustainability.
• Contribute to planning efforts related to residential facilities, capital improvements, and long-term housing strategy.
• Use assessment and data to guide program improvements and operational decision-making.
• Take responsibility for the resources, facilities, and programs entrusted to us and strive for operational excellence.

Serve as a Collaborative Campus Leader

• Represent Housing & Residence Life as a key partner within the Division of Enrollment and Student Affairs and across the university.
• Collaborate with academic affairs, facilities, and student support services to enhance the residential experience.
• Contribute to institutional initiatives that strengthen the overall student experience at VSU.

Provide Stability and Vision

• Bring a steady leadership presence that supports continuity within the department.
• Build on the strengths of the existing housing program while identifying opportunities for innovation and improvement.
• Invest in the long-term development of Housing & Residence Life at Valdosta State.

Required Qualifications

Required Experience

Bachelor's degree in a specified field and five (5) years of related work experience in a related field is required. Terminal degree and/or professional licensure, certification, and/or designation may be required in some areas.