Join the ACM-IAU team!
ACM-IAU hires individuals with a passion for international education who bring their expertise to our programming and operations to make our study abroad and degree programs the most successful they can be. All openings at our U.S. headquarters in San Diego, California, and our centers in Aix-en-Provence, France, Barcelona and Madrid, Spain, and Florence, Italy, are listed below.
Current openings:
Interested in teaching at IAU for a semester or academic year?
IAU is always interested in qualified teaching professionals able to work in France, Spain, and/or Italy and teach in English. For teaching opportunities in Aix-en-Provence, France, please contact Dr. Garett Heysel, Provost of ACM. For teaching opportunities in Barcelona, Spain, Madrid, Spain, or Florence, Italy, please contact the Vice President of Spain and Italy Programs and the Barcelona Center Director, Dr. Ignasi Perez.
The American College of the Mediterranean, with IAU as its study abroad institute, is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
U.S. Office
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Reporting Structure
The Chief Financial Officer reports to the President and works closely with the Executive Vice President, Board of Trustees Chair and Members of the Finance Committee, Executive Leadership Team, Comptroller & Human Resources Manager.
Work Arrangement
This is a full-time, on-site executive leadership position based at ACM-IAU’s U.S. headquarters in San Diego, California, or at its campuses in Aix-en-Provence, France, or Barcelona, Spain, depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate and the needs of the institution.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the country in which they will be employed. Preference will be given to candidates who already possess legal authorization to work in the United States, France, or Spain, as ACM-IAU may not be able to sponsor employment visas for this position.
Periodic travel between ACM-IAU’s U.S. and European operations.
Compensation & Benefits
ACM-IAU offers a competitive executive compensation package commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications, experience, and demonstrated leadership.
The College provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave, and professional development opportunities. Relocation assistance, where appropriate, and additional executive benefits will be discussed with finalists during the interview process.
Position Summary
Reporting to the President and serving as a strategic partner to the Executive Vice President, Board of Trustees, and Chair of the Finance Committee, the CFO will guide ACM-IAU through an important period of institutional growth and organizational development.
The next CFO will inherit a financially sound organization with ambitious aspirations — not a turnaround. Working collaboratively with trustees, faculty, staff, alumni, and international partners, the CFO will ensure that ACM-IAU has the financial strength, operational capacity, and strategic discipline to fulfill its mission while positioning the institution for sustained growth.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Executive Leadership
The Chief Financial Officer serves as ACM-IAU’s chief financial strategist and a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing broadly to executive decision-making across financial planning, governance, enrollment strategy, international operations, and organizational effectiveness.
Success in this role requires more than technical financial expertise: the CFO is expected to think institutionally, lead collaboratively, and act strategically — balancing disciplined financial management with an entrepreneurial approach that supports innovation and sustainable growth.
- Serve as a strategic advisor to the President, Executive Vice President, Board of Trustees, and Chair of the Finance Committee on matters affecting ACM-IAU’s long-term direction and financial sustainability
- Lead the development of multi-year financial plans that support enrollment growth, academic priorities, capital investments, and organizational objectives
- Collaborate with executive leadership to align financial planning with enrollment projections, academic initiatives, and institutional priorities
- Evaluate the financial implications of new academic programs, strategic partnerships, and institutional initiatives
- Promote collaboration across academic and administrative divisions to ensure effective planning and responsible resource allocation
- Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, innovation, and continuous improvement
Financial Stewardship & Strategy
- Lead the development and administration of the institution’s annual operating and capital budgets
- Develop long-range financial forecasts and scenario models that support executive decision-making and strategic planning
- Oversee treasury operations, banking relationships, investments, cash management, and institutional liquidity
- Direct international treasury management, including foreign currency planning and exchange strategies supporting ACM-IAU’s European operations
- Monitor financial performance through executive dashboards, financial analytics, and key performance indicators
- Recommend strategies that improve operating performance, financial resilience, and long-term sustainability
- Evaluate the financial viability of strategic initiatives, capital investments, and institutional partnerships
Governance & Board Relations
The CFO serves as ACM-IAU’s principal financial liaison to the Board of Trustees and Finance Committee, providing clear analysis, timely reporting, and trusted counsel that support effective governance.
- Partner with the Chair of the Finance Committee in preparing meeting agendas, financial reports, and strategic analyses
- Prepare financial reports and forecasts that support informed decision-making by the Board of Trustees
- Lead the institution’s annual independent audit and maintain productive relationships with external auditors
- Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, nonprofit regulations, tax requirements, grant obligations, and institutional policies
- Strengthen internal controls, financial policies, and enterprise risk management practices
- Identify emerging financial and operational risks and recommend practical mitigation strategies
- Maintain productive relationships with legal counsel, financial institutions, investment advisors, insurance providers, and other professional partners
Administrative Leadership
The CFO provides executive leadership for ACM-IAU’s financial and administrative operations while empowering talented professionals to lead day-to-day management within their respective areas.
- Provide executive oversight of accounting, budgeting, payroll, financial reporting, and administrative operations
- Partner with the Comptroller & Human Resources Manager to ensure effective leadership of accounting, payroll, human resources, employee benefits, and related administrative functions
- Recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing administrative staff while promoting succession planning and professional growth
- Champion process improvement through technology, automation, and operational best practices
- Evaluate administrative systems and recommend enhancements that advance organizational effectiveness and service
- Promote collaboration among finance, enrollment management, advancement, information technology, student financial services, human resources, and academic leadership
Growth & Innovation
- Partner with executive leadership to develop enrollment projections and financial models that support sustainable growth
- Evaluate the financial implications of new academic programs, international initiatives, and strategic partnerships
- Support long-range planning for technology investments, facilities, and organizational infrastructure
- Promote data-informed decision-making through enhanced financial reporting, institutional analytics, and performance metrics
- Monitor developments within higher education and international education to help position ACM-IAU for continued success
Resource Development
- Partner with the President, Executive Vice President, Advancement leadership, and Board of Trustees in support of institutional fundraising priorities and future capital campaigns
- Provide financial leadership for major institutional initiatives and transformational investments
- Cultivate strategic relationships with financial institutions, vendors, corporate partners, and other external organizations that advance ACM-IAU’s mission
- Identify opportunities to leverage strategic partnerships that enhance financial performance while generating philanthropic or in-kind support
- Support long-range planning associated with future institutional priorities, organizational growth, and anniversary initiatives
Qualifications
Professional Qualifications
ACM-IAU seeks an accomplished executive whose leadership extends beyond financial management — someone equally comfortable advising the Board of Trustees, collaborating with faculty and administrative leaders, and helping shape the long-term direction of a growing international institution.
- A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related discipline is required; an advanced degree is preferred
- Significant executive leadership experience in financial management, budgeting, forecasting, treasury, accounting, and organizational leadership
- Experience leading financial operations within higher education, nonprofit organizations, or similarly mission-driven institutions
- Experience advising executive leadership and governing boards on strategic financial matters
- Thorough knowledge of nonprofit accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, regulatory compliance, and risk management
- Outstanding analytical, communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
- A demonstrated ability to build trust, develop collaborative relationships, and lead organizational change
Preferred Experience
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or comparable professional credential
- Experience in higher education, international education, or another globally engaged organization
- Experience supporting Boards of Trustees and Finance Committees
- Experience with international financial operations, treasury management, banking relationships, and foreign currency planning
- Experience supporting institutional fundraising initiatives, comprehensive campaigns, or major strategic investments
- Working knowledge of French and/or Spanish is desirable
Leadership Profile
The successful candidate will be an intellectually curious, collaborative executive who combines sound financial judgment with strategic vision — building trusted relationships, communicating with clarity, and approaching challenges with both analytical rigor and an entrepreneurial mindset. ACM-IAU seeks a leader who understands that effective financial leadership is measured not only by fiscal results, but by the institution’s ability to fulfill its educational mission for generations to come.
Confidential Inquiries
Confidential inquiries, nominations, and applications are welcomed and will be handled with the utmost professionalism and discretion.
Applicants should submit:
- A letter of interest describing their qualifications and interest in the position
- A current curriculum vitae or résumé
- Contact information for at least three professional references (references will not be contacted without the candidate’s knowledge)
For additional information regarding the position or to submit application materials, please contact:
Kurt Schick
Executive Vice President
kurt.schick@iau.edu
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will continue until the position is filled.
The American College of the Mediterranean is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and globally engaged academic community.
COMPTROLLER & HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER
Reporting Structure
The Comptroller & Human Resources Manager reports to the Executive Vice President of U.S. Operations. This position will also work closely with the CFO, President, Provost, academic and administrative leadership, external auditors, payroll and benefit providers, legal counsel, and partner institution representatives. The Comptroller & Human Resources Manager supervises the accounting team in the U.S. Office and administrative staff as assigned.
Work Arrangement
The Comptroller & Human Resources Manager position is based in the San Diego, CA U.S. Office. This is a full-time, exempt, on-site position. Occasional travel to support institutional operations, professional development, or stakeholder meetings.
Position Summary
The Comptroller & Human Resources Manager serves as a senior administrative leader for The American College of the Mediterranean (ACM) and its study abroad institute, the Institute for American Universities (IAU). Reporting directly to the Executive Vice President of U.S. Operations, the Comptroller & Human Resources Manager is responsible for overseeing ACM-IAU’s U.S.-based accounting operations, financial reporting, payroll administration, employee benefits programs, and human resources functions for employees of the U.S. Operations Office.
This position plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity of ACM-IAU’s financial operations and human resource practices while supporting the institution’s continued growth and strategic priorities. The position’s human resources responsibilities are limited to ACM-IAU’s U.S.-based employees and operations. The position serves as a key liaison among accounting, Student Financial Services, partner institutions, and institutional leadership to ensure accurate financial administration and exceptional service delivery. The Comptroller & Human Resources Manager works collaboratively with institutional leadership, the Chief Financial Officer, external auditors, payroll and benefit providers, partner institutions, and administrators in both the United States and Europe.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Accounting and Financial Operations
- Oversee day-to-day accounting operations for ACM-IAU’s U.S.-based entities
- Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and financial reporting systems
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports
- Collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President in the preparation, monitoring, and analysis of annual operating budgets and financial forecasts
- Reconcile bank, investment, and balance sheet accounts
- Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable processes
- Monitor cash activity and assist with cash flow management
- Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit accounting standards
- Develop, maintain, and improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
- Support the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President with financial analyses and reporting as requested
- Serve as a functional leader for financial, student information, and enterprise administrative systems supporting accounting, billing, payroll, and related operational processes
- Collaborate with institutional leadership and technology personnel on the evaluation, implementation, enhancement, and optimization of financial and administrative software platforms
Audit, Tax, and Regulatory Compliance
- Coordinate the institution’s annual financial audit and serve as a primary liaison to external auditors
- Prepare schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation required for annual audits
- Assist with preparation and review of IRS Form 990 and other regulatory filings
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local financial reporting requirements
- Maintain appropriate financial records and documentation in accordance with institutional policies and legal requirements
- Monitor developments in accounting, payroll, and employment regulations and recommend policy updates as needed
Payroll and Benefits Administration
- Oversee payroll administration for all U.S.-based employees
- Ensure accurate processing of compensation, deductions, retirement contributions, and employer benefit payments
- Serve as the primary liaison with payroll providers, benefit brokers, and retirement plan administrators
- Administer employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, retirement plans, health savings accounts, and other benefit offerings
- Coordinate annual open enrollment activities and employee benefit communications
- Ensure compliance with applicable payroll, benefits, and retirement plan regulations
Student Financial Services & IAU Partner Institution Relations
- Serve as a primary administrative liaison to the Student Financial Services team regarding student account administration, billing processes, financial reconciliation, and payment-related matters
- Collaborate with Student Financial Services personnel to ensure accurate and timely invoicing, payment processing, account reconciliation, and financial reporting
- Assist in the development and implementation of procedures that support efficient student financial operations and exceptional service to students and partner institutions
- Serve as a primary financial liaison to partner institutions’ business offices, student accounts personnel, and study abroad administrators
- Coordinate billing, invoicing, payment processing, account reconciliation, and related financial communications with partner institutions
- Respond to financial inquiries from partner institutions and assist in resolving account discrepancies in a timely manner
- Support the implementation and administration of institutional agreements that include financial obligations, discounts, scholarships, exchanges, or billing arrangements
Human Resources Leadership
- Lead and administer human resources programs, policies, and compliance activities for employees of ACM-IAU’s U.S. Operations Office
- Oversee recruitment, onboarding, orientation, and offboarding activities for U.S.-based employees
- Maintain personnel records for U.S.-based employees and ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws
- Serve as a resource to supervisors and employees regarding HR policies, procedures, and employment practices
- Coordinate performance review processes and related documentation for employees of the U.S. Operations Office
- Administer leave programs, including FMLA, state-specific leave requirements, and institutional leave policies
- Assist with employee relations matters and workplace investigations as appropriate
- Support employee engagement, professional development, and organizational effectiveness initiatives
- Maintain and update employee handbooks, policies, and HR procedures
Institutional Operations and Strategic Support
- Collaborate with institutional leadership to support strategic planning and operational initiatives
- Recommend and implement process improvements that enhance operational efficiency, accuracy, compliance, and service quality
- Prepare financial, payroll, benefits, and human resources reports for leadership review and decision-making
- Support special projects and institutional initiatives as assigned
- Participate in cross-functional committees, working groups, and planning activities
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of ACM-IAU’s mission and operations
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
- Five years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, human resources, business administration, or related areas
- Demonstrated knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, payroll administration, and employee benefits
- Experience administering human resources functions and employment compliance activities
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
- Proficiency with accounting software, payroll systems, Microsoft Excel, and business applications
Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation
- SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or comparable human resources certification
- Experience in higher education, study abroad administration, or nonprofit organizations
- Experience with financial management systems, ERP platforms, student information systems, payroll systems, and software implementation or conversion projects
- Experience with Paylocity or comparable HRIS and payroll platforms
- Experience administering 403(b) retirement plans
- Experience working with multi-state employment regulations and compliance requirements
- Experience supporting financial audits and nonprofit regulatory filings
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, current resume, and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
For additional information or to submit application materials, please contact:
Kurt Schick
Executive Vice President
kurt.schick@iau.edu
ACM-IAU is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and globally engaged academic community.
ADMINISTRATIVE INTERN
Position Description
This is a great opportunity for students to gain work experience in an international education environment. The position offers the opportunity for interns to develop valuable skills in professional correspondence, data management/file organization (physical and digital), data reporting, website editing and development, and more. An Administrative Intern can expect to work in a fast-paced, detail-oriented, and goal-driven work environment while playing an integral role in the daily administrative needs of each area of the U.S. Office of Admissions and Alumni Affairs, including admissions, custom programs, marketing, academic affairs, custom programs, and alumni affairs. A successful candidate is highly motivated, self-driven, detail-oriented, and reliable. As part of this position, the Administrative Intern will be assigned to conduct a variety of ongoing tasks and projects including but not limited to the following:
- Handling office tasks, such as managing office mail and digital documents, document scanning, transcribing minutes from meetings, setting up for meetings, and reordering supplies.
- Support all ACM-IAU divisions including, but not limited to, admissions (study abroad and degree), marketing (including social media), alumni affairs, finance, academic affairs, student affairs
- Answering phone and email inquiries in order to route them to the appropriate party.
- Using ACM-IAU’s proprietary databases and data management systems to generate reports, create and edit presentations, perform course programming for each term, activate registration/applications for each term, and conduct research.
- Greet and assist visitors.
- Complete tasks related to academic affairs, including support with catalogue revisions/review and syllabi management
- Maintain polite and professional communication via phone, e-mail, and mail.
- Anticipate the needs of others in order to ensure their seamless and positive experience.
- Perform data entry/upload and data organization tasks using various web-based platforms/databases (while handling sensitive and/or confidential information) in order to support the study abroad and degree-seeking advising teams in their day-to-day responsibilities.
- Processing, downloading, scanning and filing the office mail.
- Auditing and updating the ACM and IAU websites and outward-facing marketing materials/sites to ensure accuracy of information and make needed enhancements.
- Reviewing and updating ACM-IAU’s internship placement lists in graphic design software (i.e. Canva) as needed based on placement opportunities.
- Support the ACM-IAU team in various day-to-day advising tasks.
- Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned as necessitated by business needs.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Must be able to work 10-15 hours per week on site in ACM-IAU’s San Diego office
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and other MS Office software
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to meticulous record-keeping
- Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities
- Self-starter with the capacity to work independently and take initiative
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
- Reliable internet connection and access to necessary software/tools for remote work when eneded
- Friendly, welcoming, detail-oriented, collaborative, and highly-organized
- Candidates must show an interest in international education (e.g. studies in international affairs, experience with educational travel, etc.)
- Ideally, have participated in a study abroad experience, preferably with ACM-IAU
Desirable Qualifications (Not Required)
- Previous experience in an academic setting or a related field
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to extract insights from data
- Familiarity with academic software or learning management systems
- Previous experience with curriculum and assessment support
- A passion for international education and cultural exchange
- Language skills: Ability to read and understand French and/or Spanish is a plus but not mandatory
Start date: As soon as possible
Hours per week: 10-15
Compensation
$18 per hours. This is a part-time, non-benefits, non-exempt position.
How to Apply
Applications should send a resume, cover letter, and two references to enroll@iau.edu
ACM-IAU’s U.S. Office will provide you with the necessary training and resources to accomplish the tasks.
ACM-IAU’s U.S. Office is open from 8:30am – 5:00pm PT, Monday – Friday. This position will be on-site at ACM-IAU’s Mission Valley office location in San Diego, California.