Director of International Relations

Director – International RelationsAbout the InstitutionWe are a fast-growing engineering institution with a strong focus on applied research, industry engagement, innovation and global collaboration.We are looking for an experienced and dynamic Director – International Relations to lead CIT's internationalisation strategy and build a strong global network of universities, research institutions, industries, governments and international organisations.Desired ProfilePh.D. from a reputed national or international institution is mandatory.10+ years of relevant experience in international relations, higher education, academic partnerships, research collaboration or a related field.Proven experience in developing and managing international university and institutional partnerships.Ability to develop and execute a long-term internationalisation strategy for the institution.Strong understanding of global higher education and research ecosystems across Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Europe, North America, Australia and other developed countries.Strong network with leading universities, research institutions, technology companies, government agencies and international organisations.Experience in developing and managing MoUs, joint programs, student/faculty exchanges and collaborative research initiatives.Experience facilitating international internships, placements, scholarships, study-abroad and student mobility programs.Strong track record in developing international research collaborations, joint proposals and externally funded projects.Experience working with international delegations, embassies, government bodies and global education/research organisations.Excellent communication, relationship management, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement CIT's 5–10 year internationalisation strategy.Build strategic partnerships with leading global universities, research institutions and industries.Establish and scale student exchange, faculty exchange, internships, joint programs and international placements.Drive international research collaborations, joint projects, grants and Ph.D. partnerships.Create global opportunities for CIT students through international internships, competitions, scholarships and academic programs.Develop international industry partnerships for technology, research, talent and innovation.Manage international delegations, institutional visits, MoUs and partnerships with clear measurable outcomes.Develop opportunities for dual-degree, twinning, joint-degree, semester-abroad and short-term international programs.Strengthen CIT's global visibility through international conferences, academic networks and strategic partnerships.Work closely with academic departments to convert international partnerships into tangible student, faculty, research and industry outcomes.Build and lead a professional International Relations Office with clear objectives, KPIs and partnership pipelines.Ideal CandidateA globally connected academic leader and strategic relationship builder who can move beyond signing MoUs and create measurable institutional outcomes across:Global Partnerships × Student Mobility × Research × Industry × InnovationThe ideal candidate should have the ability to identify strategic partners, build long-term relationships, negotiate collaborations and convert them into meaningful opportunities for students, faculty and the institution.

Location: ChennaiPosition: Director – International RelationsQualification: Ph.D.

MandatoryExperience: 10+ years