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Director of Admissions Position

Director of Admissions
The Leelanau School – Glen Arbor, Michigan
Start Date: Spring 2025

The Leelanau School is seeking a passionate and experienced Director of Admissions to lead our efforts in attracting, enrolling, and retaining students who align with our mission and values. As a key member of the leadership team, the Director of Admissions will play a vital role in shaping the future of our school community.

About The Leelanau School

Located on the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, The Leelanau School is an independent boarding and day high school dedicated to meeting the educational and social needs of every student. With a focus on fostering individual growth and celebrating diverse learning styles, we empower students to discover and develop their unique strengths. Our historic campus and close-knit community provide a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and socially, guided by a culture of acceptance and respect.

Our Mission:
To ignite a passion for learning in a boarding school environment where students thrive by engaging academically and celebrating unique learning styles. We prepare students for successful and meaningful lives in higher education, careers, citizenship, and service.

Responsibilities

The Director of Admissions will:

  • Represent the School: Articulate and embody The Leelanau School’s philosophy, mission, and values to prospective families and the wider community.
  • Engage with the Campus Community: Be an active, visible presence on campus to fully understand and appreciate the academic and residential program and authentically represent the school.
  • Recruit Students: Identify and attract students who will thrive in and contribute to our dynamic school environment.
  • Oversee Admissions Processes: Develop and implement policies ensuring integrity, confidentiality, and transparency.
  • Develop Marketing Strategies: Create and manage comprehensive marketing initiatives across print, digital, and face-to-face channels.
  • Build Relationships: Establish connections with educational consultants, feeder schools, and placement partners.
  • Organize Admissions Programs: Lead events such as campus tours, student visits, admission interviews, attend fairs, visit feeders schools, and prepare orientations.
  • Manage Enrollment: Communicate decisions, facilitate scholarship awards, oversee financial aid, and guide re-enrollment processes.
  • Track and Report Data: Maintain detailed admissions statistics and provide regular updates to the Head of School and Board of Trustees.
  • Contribute to Leadership: Participate in administrative decision-making as part of the leadership team.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Experience and Expertise:
    • A minimum of 5–7 years in admissions or a related role, preferably in an independent school setting.
    • Proven success working with domestic and international educational consultants.
    • A bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred).
  • Interpersonal and Communication Skills:
    • Outstanding verbal and written communication abilities.
    • Expertise in engaging with adolescents and families, demonstrating respect and cultural competency.
  • Technical and Marketing Proficiency:
    • Familiarity with CRM systems (Salesforce preferred) and productivity tools (Microsoft Office, Google Suite).
    • Experience with social media and digital marketing techniques.
  • Personal Attributes:
    • A self-motivated, detail-oriented, and organized approach.
    • A respect and appreciation for the adolescent experience.
    • A warm, charismatic, and sales-oriented demeanor.
    • A deep commitment to the mission and values of The Leelanau School.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Salary: Commensurate with experience and leadership readiness.
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package:
    • Health, dental, and life insurance premiums fully covered for employees.
    • Long-term disability insurance.
    • Optional coverage for family at employee’s expense.
  • Retirement Plan:
    • 403(b) plan with up to 4% employer match through TIAA-CREF.
  • Additional Perks:
    • Health Savings Account.
    • Free meals during working hours when school is in session.
    • Generous vacation allowance (232 hours annually).
  • Work Environment: A supportive, collaborative, and mission-driven community.

Note:  This is a year-round position.  Campus housing is not included with this position.

How to Apply

Please send a letter of interest and résumé to:
Rob Hansen, Head of School
Email: rhansen@leelanau.org
Mail: 1 Old Homestead Rd., Glen Arbor, MI 49636

Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
The screening and interview process will begin after the deadline.