Regional Director, Student Placement & Support

Location: Stamford, CT (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $27.48 - $29.12 per hour

About Us

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.