Regional Director, Student Placement & Support
AIFS, Stamford, CT, United States
Academic Year in America (AYA), part of the AIFS family of programs, is a leading high school foreign exchange organization dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding. We create life-changing experiences by connecting international students with American host families, helping young people build global perspectives and lasting relationships.
About the Role
AYA is seeking an energetic, people-driven Regional Director to lead student placement and support efforts. This is a dynamic, relationship-focused role ideal for someone who thrives on connecting with others, driving results, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of students and families.
What You’ll Do
Place international students with American host families and meet placement goals through proactive outreach and relationship-building
Recruit, train, and motivate a network of Local Coordinators
Build and maintain strong relationships with host families, students, and community partners nationwide
Provide hands‑on student support, including guidance and conflict resolution
Manage rematch processes to ensure positive outcomes when placements change
Ensure compliance with program policies and U.S. Department of State regulations
Who You Are
Outgoing, confident, and highly people-oriented
Comfortable communication by phone and managing high-volume outreach
Goal-driven with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
Skilled communicator who builds trust quickly
Able to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy
Highly organized and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
Why Join AYA?
Mission-driven work that creates meaningful global impact
A high-energy, people-first role with visible results
Opportunities for travel
Collaborative and supportive team culture
Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and 401(k)
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
1–3 years of experience in customer service, sales, education, or other people-facing roles
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Proven ability to build relationships and engage diverse audiences
Comfortable managing frequent communication and outreach
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; willingness to learn CRM/database systems
Flexibility to work evenings and during peak seasons, with travel as needed
Travel Requirement
This role requires occasional business travel, including travel to the Company’s New Jersey orientation site and other off‑site locations as needed. Attendance at AYA’s annual international meeting is required as part of the role. Employees must be able to meet any applicable requirements for domestic and international travel.
Employees must also be able to meet the driving requirements of the position, which may include operating a personal or rental vehicle, subject to applicable law.
Hybrid Schedule and On‑Site Requirements
This position is currently designated as hybrid, with an anticipated schedule of 2 to 3 days per week in the Stamford, Connecticut office and the remaining days remote. The schedule is subject to change based on business needs.
Employees must be able to report to the Stamford office as required, including on days outside of the regular in-office schedule.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
AIFS provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.
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About the Role
AYA is seeking an energetic, people-driven Regional Director to lead student placement and support efforts. This is a dynamic, relationship-focused role ideal for someone who thrives on connecting with others, driving results, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of students and families.
What You’ll Do
Place international students with American host families and meet placement goals through proactive outreach and relationship-building
Recruit, train, and motivate a network of Local Coordinators
Build and maintain strong relationships with host families, students, and community partners nationwide
Provide hands‑on student support, including guidance and conflict resolution
Manage rematch processes to ensure positive outcomes when placements change
Ensure compliance with program policies and U.S. Department of State regulations
Who You Are
Outgoing, confident, and highly people-oriented
Comfortable communication by phone and managing high-volume outreach
Goal-driven with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
Skilled communicator who builds trust quickly
Able to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy
Highly organized and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
Why Join AYA?
Mission-driven work that creates meaningful global impact
A high-energy, people-first role with visible results
Opportunities for travel
Collaborative and supportive team culture
Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and 401(k)
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
1–3 years of experience in customer service, sales, education, or other people-facing roles
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Proven ability to build relationships and engage diverse audiences
Comfortable managing frequent communication and outreach
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; willingness to learn CRM/database systems
Flexibility to work evenings and during peak seasons, with travel as needed
Travel Requirement
This role requires occasional business travel, including travel to the Company’s New Jersey orientation site and other off‑site locations as needed. Attendance at AYA’s annual international meeting is required as part of the role. Employees must be able to meet any applicable requirements for domestic and international travel.
Employees must also be able to meet the driving requirements of the position, which may include operating a personal or rental vehicle, subject to applicable law.
Hybrid Schedule and On‑Site Requirements
This position is currently designated as hybrid, with an anticipated schedule of 2 to 3 days per week in the Stamford, Connecticut office and the remaining days remote. The schedule is subject to change based on business needs.
Employees must be able to report to the Stamford office as required, including on days outside of the regular in-office schedule.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
AIFS provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.
J-18808-Ljbffr