Resident Director (Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies in Kyoto, Japan)

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

• This position is located in Kyoto, Japan. The incumbent will be hired by the Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies (KCJS) and will not be a Columbia University employee (Columbia University is an affiliate institution of the KCJS).

Established in 1989, the Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies is a consortium of 14 universities that offers academic year and summer programs. Working closely with the KCJS Board of Delegates, Columbia University, and Doshisha University, the RD is responsible for the continued development and oversight of the academic programs, student affairs, and administrative and financial management. The RD reports to a senior administrator at the administering institution, which is currently the Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement at Columbia. The RD supervises a team of full-time administrative staff who assist in all areas of program management, in addition to a team of Japanese language instructors. The RD is charged with nourishing an intellectual and social environment that is supportive of excellence and high academic standards.

Responsibilities

Academic

Oversee the academic year and summer programs.

Create and implement distinct curricula in coordination with the KCJS Board of Delegates and UGE to meet the needs of today's students; develop innovative courses that make use of the unique opportunities in Kyoto.

Identify and hire local faculty to teach courses or direct independent study projects. Provide guidance to ensure that courses meet KCJS academic standards and policies.

Coordinate the search and appointment of postdoctoral fellows.

Provide academic advising, coordinate and supervise independent studies, and enable student and faculty use of local libraries and other scholarly resources.

Actively develop and strengthen connections with local academic communities, government agencies in the U.S. and Japan, alumni, and donors in order to provide a broad range of opportunities for KCJS students.

May include teaching duties depending on the needs of the consortium.

Student Life

Maintain a regular on-site presence to provide students with support related to academic, professional and personal goals. As needed, consult with the relevant parties and / or refer students to other resources to help them meet their goals and / or resolve any issues.

Supervise the organization of student housing.

Plan and lead comprehensive orientation programs for incoming students.

Curate specialized co-curricular and extracurricular activities that support student learning.

Facilitate student involvement in community activities and cultural opportunities.

Participate in risk management by developing onsite emergency protocols and handling emergencies in partnership with Columbia UGE, host and home schools, local security, and medical resources. Maintain the basic standards of student conduct and, where necessary, work with home institutions to educate students regarding these policies.

Administration / Budget / Technology

Supervise and manage an administrative team of full-time employees, language instructors, and adjunct instructors, including hiring, training, motivating, evaluating performance, and setting salaries.

Work directly with Columbia UGE to prepare the annual budget; manage all fiscal activities for a ~$2 million budget.

Manage facilities and arrange for service contracts and legal services as needed.

Manage the technological infrastructure for academic and administrative purposes, in coordination with Columbia UGE.

Work with local organizations to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

Outreach and Relationship Management

Manage relations with Doshisha University, other local institutions, and program partners.

Work in close contact with all administrative staff of Columbia UGE and the KCJS Board of Delegates. Understand the unique needs of the consortium members.

Facilitate ongoing dialogue with the KCJS Board of Delegates throughout the year, including preparing and setting the agendas for the scheduled KCJS Board meetings. Lead and participate in the Board meeting.

Foster active communication with institutions that send visiting students. Make campus visits and organize information sessions.

Host visitors and maintain contact with advocates for the program, including alumni, donors, and government officials.

Other related responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree and / or equivalent related experience required.
• Minimum 3-5 years of related experience.
• Relevant administrative experience such as global program management, student affairs, marketing and outreach, assessment and planning, and budgetary oversight.
• Language fluency in English and Japanese.
• Strong understanding of Japanese culture and business practices.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and lead a team effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with a broad range of constituents.
• Strong interpersonal / intercultural skills and ability to problem solve.
• Capacity to represent the KCJS in Japan and overseas in the U.S. or internationally.
• Ability to undertake international travel as required.
• Legally authorized to work in Japan or ability to secure an appropriate work visa.

Employment Conditions : The position is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2026, and is engaged by the Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies through an entrustment agreement.

Search Timeline : Applications will be reviewed beginning January 5, 2026, and will be accepted until the position is filled.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience with an advanced degree strongly preferred.
• Preferred undergraduate teaching experience.

Columbia with Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.