Higher Education Compliance Specialist

Student Compliance ManagerWe are seeking a highly skilled Student Compliance Manager to join our team. As a key member of our organization, you will play a critical role in ensuring that our student-related policies, procedures, and operations comply with all applicable laws, regulations, accreditation requirements, and internal governance standards.The ideal candidate will have 15 years of experience in legal, compliance, or student affairs roles, with a strong background in education laws, compliance standards, and regulatory frameworks. They will possess excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills, as well as exceptional written and verbal communication skills.Responsibilities:Compliance Management• Monitor and interpret relevant laws, regulations, and accreditation standards affecting student operations.• Develop, update, and implement student compliance policies, including privacy, safeguarding, academic integrity, and enrollment regulations.• Conduct internal compliance audits and risk assessments related to student activities.• Coordinate institution-wide training on compliance requirements for staff, faculty, and student employees.Student Legal Affairs• Provide legal guidance on student contracts, enrollment agreements, waivers, and disciplinary procedures.• Manage student-related legal issues including grievances, misconduct cases, and appeals.• Liaise with external legal counsel when required.• Ensure that student policies align with evolving legal standards and best practices.Student Conduct & Case Management• Oversee the student conduct process including investigations, hearings, sanctions, and reporting.• Maintain accurate and confidential case records.• Support resolution of student complaints and disputes in accordance with institutional regulations.Regulatory Reporting & Documentation• Prepare required compliance and regulatory reports for government, accreditation bodies, and internal leadership.• Maintain up-to-date documentation for audits and institutional reviews.Policy Development & Governance• Draft, review, and update student policies, codes of conduct, and compliance manuals.• Facilitate policy training and awareness sessions for students and staff.• Work with internal committees on continuous quality improvement and institutional governance.Risk Mitigation & Advisory• Identify compliance risks and recommend mitigation strategies.• Advise leadership on emerging compliance issues impacting students.• Support crisis management planning related to student safety and legal matters.Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Law, Compliance, Public Policy, or related field required.15 years of experience in legal, compliance, or student affairs roles.Experience within higher education, training organizations, or regulatory agencies is an advantage.Prior experience handling student conduct, safeguarding, and policy management preferred.Skills:Strong knowledge of education laws, compliance standards, and regulatory frameworks.Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.Ability to interpret legal documents and produce clear policy guidance.High emotional intelligence; able to manage sensitive student cases professionally.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to work cross-functionally with academic, legal, and administrative teams.Key Attributes:Integrity and sound judgmentConfidentiality and professionalismProactive and solutions-orientedStrong ethical leadershipCommitment to student welfare and institutional compliance