The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a non-profit higher education association, is seeking a Vice President for Accreditation Relations (VPAR) to expand the team dedicated to advancing the quality of higher education and HLC's microcredential programs.
This role serves as a liaison to HLC's member institutions by maintaining relationships with institution contacts and helping them navigate accreditation processes.
The position will also have a key role in the growth of HLC's postsecondary innovation-focused initiative, the Credential Lab , which is a new hub that supports institutions and learners in navigating the complex and growing ecosystem of short-term postsecondary credentials.
The position offers an unique base from which to experience the full diversity of American higher education; to grasp the emerging trends and innovations across colleges, universities and short-term content providers; and to address the challenges and opportunities of quality assurance, continuous improvement, transparency to the public, and the values of voluntary self-regulation.
HLC Vice Presidents participate in the shaping, evaluation and improvement of HLC policy and practice and contribute to the conduct of HLC services such as the provision of presentations and workshops. They contribute significantly to the advancement of HLC's strategic plan.
Attributes Sought:
- Significant work experience in higher education in a position of major responsibility
- Significant experience in credentials and/or continuing education
- Broad familiarity with the higher education ecosystem in the United States
- Capacity for holistic, complex judgments; analysis; problem solving; and translation of policy into practice
- Ability to handle a sizeable caseload of institutions, to manage the detail of multiple simultaneous activities, to share the setting of policy and practice with colleagues, and to work in a team framework for carrying out the various processes and programs of HLC
- Experience working on a revenue driven initiative
- Ability to engage and build relationships with various stakeholders
- Ability to convey the value of microcredentials to multiple stakeholders via multiple communication channels
- Willingness to travel as needed
- Doctoral degree
About HLC
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent accrediting agency founded in 1895. HLC accredits degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States. HLC has approximately 60 employees.
HLC is a hybrid work environment. In general, employees are expected to work in the HLC Chicago office on an occasional basis. Non-local candidates will be considered for Alternative Work Arrangements.
Pay Scale and Benefits Information
HLC offers a rich benefits package including an employer 10% contribution of base salary to the retirement plan; medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance options; long term disability insurance; and dedicated funding for professional development.
HLC's time-off includes 20 vacation days, 10 personal days, and a typical annual office closure for ten days in December.
The annual pay range for this salary is expected to be $165,000-$175,000, although the actual salary for the position may vary based on experience, qualifications, and HLC budget considerations.
HLC is an equal opportunity employer. If you may require reasonable accommodations in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to .
Initial review of applications will begin on May 7 th .