National Higher Education Executive Search Services
Since 2006, Scion Executive Search has been a trusted leader in higher education executive search, connecting educational institutions with transformational leaders who inspire growth, innovation, and mission-driven impact.
Higher Education Executive Search
Trusted Leadership Recruitment for Colleges & Universities Nationwide
At Scion Executive Search, we specialize in identifying and placing transformative leaders who drive progress, academic excellence, and institutional success. Since 2006, our firm has been a dedicated partner to higher education institutions across the United States—delivering personalized executive search services that connect mission-driven organizations with exceptional academic talent.
Our Higher Education Expertise
From nationally ranked universities to community colleges and independent institutions, we bring a deep understanding of the complexities, culture, and demands of higher education leadership. Our experienced search professionals work closely with each institution to ensure a tailored and strategic process that aligns with your mission, values, and vision for the future. We have expert search consultants located nationwide and actively conduct searches in all states and regions across the United States.
Comprehensive Executive Search Services
Scion offers a full-service, hands-on approach to leadership recruitment that combines national reach, rigorous research, and a consultative process tailored to the culture and priorities of each academic institution. Our dedicated higher education search team provides:
🔹 Needs Analysis & Position Strategy: We begin by quickly and thoroughly understanding your institution’s mission, challenges, and goals to craft a tailored search strategy designed for both precision and expediency. As experienced experts, we do all the legwork—driving the search process forward, managing the details, and helping your institution confidently navigate each step to ensure exceptional results. We bring deep industry knowledge and serve as a dedicated resource to answer questions and support your team, making the entire experience as seamless and successful as possible.
🔹 Targeted Outreach: Our expansive network of over 16 million professionals, combined with strategic direct recruitment efforts, focuses on identifying candidates with demonstrated academic leadership and alignment with your institutional mission. In addition to our robust national reach, we maintain valuable international connections to support global talent needs. To date, we have driven more than 750,000 applications for our clients, connecting top-tier talent with opportunities that make a lasting impact.
🔹Candidate Vetting & Interview Support: From structured screening to in-depth assessments, we handle every aspect of identifying the right leadership fit and take care of all administrative aspects of the search. From interview scheduling to candidate debriefing, reference checks, and supporting your search committee in a way that fits your organization, we drive the results in your best interests.
🔹Offer Facilitation, Transition & Ongoing Support: We help negotiate and finalize placements that are positioned for long-term success. Beyond the hire, we serve as a committed partner to your institution, offering continued support throughout the transition and remaining available as a trusted resource to ensure lasting impact.
We specialize in recruiting and leading comprehensive executive searches for higher education institutions across the United States, including the following key leadership roles:
- President / Chancellor
- Provost / Chief Academic Officer
- Vice President of Academic Affairs
- Vice President of Student Affairs
- Vice President of Enrollment Management
- Vice President of Finance / Administration
- Vice President of Institutional Advancement
- Vice President of Research
- Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Vice President of Strategic Initiatives / Planning
- Chief of Staff to the President / Chancellor
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
- Chief Operating Officer (COO)
- Chief Information Officer
- Chief Human Resources Officer
- Chief Marketing and Communications Officer
- Chief Compliance Officer / Title IX Executive
- Chief Data Officer
- Chief Innovation Officer
- Chief Online Learning Officer
- Dean of Students
- Dean of Academic Affairs / Undergraduate / Graduate Programs
- Dean of Research / Innovation / Community Engagement
- Dean of Faculty / Instruction
- Dean of Enrollment Management
- Dean of Continuing Education / Professional Studies
- Dean/VP of Admissions
- Dean/VP of Financial Aid
- Dean/VP of Institutional Research
- Dean/VP of Career Services / Student Success
- Dean/Senior Director of Development
- Dean/Senior Director of Alumni Relations
- Dean/Senior Director of Facilities / Campus Operations
- Dean/Senior Director of Campus Safety / Risk Management
- Associate Vice President for Enrollment and University Registrar
- Registrar / University Registrar
- Chief Legal Officer
- Executive Vice President and General Counsel
- Executive Director of Sponsored Programs / Research Administration
Recognized Excellence in Executive Search
Since 2006, Scion Executive Search has been a trusted partner to mission-driven institutions across the nation. With nearly two decades of proven success, we have built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional executive search services tailored to the unique needs of higher education.
Our firm has been nationally recognized by Forbes as one of the Best Executive Search Firms in the U.S. and has been featured in publications such as The Business Times, Inc. Magazine, and ClearlyRated. We are proud to have supported thousands of successful placements across academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, and educational systems.
Every search we conduct is powered by a deep commitment to service, strategy, and results. Our team of expert consultants brings extensive experience in higher education recruitment and a passion for advancing leadership that drives institutional success.
Let’s Start Your Search
Whether you are seeking your next President, academic leader, or functional department executive, Scion Executive Search is ready to partner with your institution to build a powerful and mission-aligned leadership team. We invite you to connect with our team to learn how our proven executive search process can support your goals.
