Job description
University of Virginia, a public university in Charlottesville, Virginia, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its assistant vice president for student affairs and executive director of housing and residence life. This is an on-site leadership role.
The University of Virginia is a proudly public institution, consistently ranked among the best universities in the United States for excellence and value. UVA serves the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world by advancing knowledge and preparing students to be citizen leaders guided by empathy, integrity, and truth. The University of Virginia, founded in 1819, was the first of its kind.
The assistant vice president for student affairs and executive director of housing and residence life (AVP/ED) serves as the senior housing officer for the University of Virginia (UVA), overseeing excellence in programs, services, facilities and business operations, which support a residential community of over 7,800 beds. They will provide visionary and strategic leadership for a $65 million housing and residential life system and oversee a team of approximately 50 full-time employees, as well as nearly 300 student employees. The AVP/ED is a dual report to Gheretta Harris, associate vice president for business services, and Kenyon R. Bonner, vice president and chief student affairs officer.
The salary range for this position is $170,000 – $185,000.
Qualifications
A master’s degree in higher education administration, student affairs, business administration, or a related field and at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in university housing and residence life, including five years in senior leadership, are required.
The candidate must demonstrate expertise in strategic planning, fiscal management, and staff supervision. Additionally, the candidate must have a proven record of leading large teams and managing complex housing operations. Proficiency with housing management systems and data-driven decision-making are required.
In addition to the qualifications stated above, key stakeholders identified the following capabilities and attributes of a successful candidate:
- Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Strong finance and analytical abilities.
- Knowledge of student development theory and best practices in housing and residential education.
- A collaborative leadership style with the ability to build effective partnerships across the university.
- Proven skills in crisis management, student support, and community engagement.
- Demonstrated ability to be a present and visible leader.
How to apply
University of Virginia has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin November 19, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/assistant-vice-president-for-student-affairs-executive-director-of -housing-and-residence-life/
- Contact Julie Leos at [email protected] for confidential inquiries.
- Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email [email protected].
Visit the University of Virginia website at www.virginia.edu
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click h ere to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.
