Director of International Partnerships Job Vacancy in Nsukka, Nigeria – Higher Education

Job Description

Position:Director of International Partnerships

Company:University of Nigeria

Location:Nsukka, Nigeria

Experience:10+ years

Education:Master’s degree in International Relations or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Higher Education

Department:International Relations

Salary:₦5,000,000 – ₦8,000,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is a premier federal university renowned for academic excellence, research innovation, and community impact across Africa. Established in 1955, UNN has consistently ranked among the top institutions in Nigeria, offering a vibrant campus life and a commitment to global engagement. As a hub for scholars, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, the university seeks to expand its international footprint, fostering collaborations that enhance research capacity, student mobility, and cultural exchange. This role directly supports UNN’s strategic vision of becoming a leading global university.

UNN’s International Relations Office coordinates all outbound and inbound partnerships, scholarship programs, joint research initiatives, and faculty exchange schemes. By joining a dynamic team that values diversity, academic freedom, and societal transformation, you will contribute to shaping the future of higher education in Nigeria and beyond. This position is a cornerstone for attracting top talent, securing funding, and positioning the university as a preferred partner for institutions worldwide.

Job Overview

The Director of International Partnerships will lead the development, negotiation, and management of strategic alliances with universities, research institutes, NGOs, and industry partners across the globe. Reporting to the Vice‑Chancellor for Academic Affairs, you will design and implement a comprehensive internationalization strategy that aligns with UNN’s mission and the broader goals of Nigeria’s higher education sector. Your responsibilities will include overseeing joint degree programs, collaborative research grants, faculty and student exchange pathways, and international funding opportunities.

In this senior leadership role, you will act as the primary ambassador for UNN in international forums, conferences, and diplomatic engagements. You will work closely with academic deans, department heads, and the Office of the Registrar to ensure seamless integration of partnership activities into curricula and institutional policies. The role demands a visionary mindset, strong analytical capabilities, and a proven track record of securing high‑impact collaborations that generate measurable outcomes for the university and its stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a five‑year international partnership roadmap that supports UNN’s academic and research priorities.
• Identify, evaluate, and negotiate agreements with foreign universities, research centers, and industry partners, ensuring compliance with Nigerian regulations and university policies.
• Lead the creation and management of joint degree programs, dual‑degree pathways, and collaborative research projects, overseeing all contractual and financial aspects.
• Secure external funding from international donors, development agencies, and private sector sponsors to support partnership initiatives.
• Coordinate faculty and student exchange programs, including visa support, orientation, and post‑exchange evaluation.
• Collaborate with academic units to embed international components into curricula, fostering global competencies among graduates.
• Represent UNN at international conferences, education fairs, and diplomatic meetings to promote the university’s brand and attract prospective partners.
• Monitor and report on partnership performance metrics, preparing annual impact reports for senior leadership and external stakeholders.
• Mentor junior staff within the International Relations Office, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.

Required Skills

• Strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Exceptional negotiation and contract management expertise.
• Strong knowledge of international higher‑education frameworks, accreditation standards, and funding mechanisms.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal, with fluency in English; proficiency in a second language is an advantage.
• Proven leadership and team‑building capabilities.
• Analytical proficiency with experience using data‑driven decision‑making tools.
• High cultural intelligence and ability to work effectively across diverse environments.

Education

A Master’s degree in International Relations, Higher Education Administration, Business Development, or a closely related discipline is required. A Ph.D. or additional certifications in international education management will be considered an asset.

Experience

Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in international partnership development, preferably within a university or research institution. Demonstrated success in securing multi‑million‑dollar grants, establishing joint programs, and managing cross‑border teams is essential.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from ₦5,000,000 to ₦8,000,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, pension contributions, and relocation assistance where applicable.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
• Retirement pension scheme aligned with federal guidelines.
• Professional development allowance for conferences, certifications, and advanced studies.
• Annual leave of 30 days plus public holidays.
• Access to university facilities, including libraries, sports complexes, and cultural events.

Training

• Orientation program covering UNN policies, Nigerian higher‑education regulations, and partnership governance.
• Ongoing leadership workshops and mentorship from senior university executives.
• Access to international best‑practice webinars and collaborative platforms.

Working Environment

The role is based at the UNN main campus in Nsukka, offering a collaborative academic atmosphere surrounded by vibrant student life and research activities. Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options for international travel periods, are supported to facilitate global engagement.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV and a cover letter outlining their vision for UNN’s international growth through the online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For more information about the university and its mission, please visit the Nigeria Job Search Portal. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Nigeria is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.