The Director will:
Design and launch the entire Foundation Year programme from scratch.
Ensure students are academically prepared for undergraduate studies.
Align the programme with:
Key Responsibilities Academic & Programme Leadership
- Create curriculum, policies, assessments, and learning outcomes.
- Oversee subjects like English, General Education, Mathematics, and introductory tracks.
- Introduce modern teaching methods and student-focused learning.
Faculty & Team Management
- Recruit and manage instructors and coordinators.
- Conduct training, coaching, and performance evaluations.
- Build a strong academic culture.
Student Success
- Manage placement testing and student progression.
- Develop systems to support struggling students.
- Monitor attendance, performance, and retention.
Operations
- Handle scheduling, timetables, budgets, and LMS systems (Canvas preferred).
- Ensure smooth daily academic operations.
Accreditation & Quality Assurance
- Prepare the programme for ETEC and NCAAA accreditation from Day 1.
- Maintain documentation, reporting, and evidence tracking.
Stakeholder Collaboration
- Coordinate with admissions, academic colleges, and ASU partners.
- Represent the Foundation Year in university committees and accreditation discussions.
Requirements Education
- PhD/EdD in Education, Applied Linguistics, Curriculum & Instruction, or related field preferred.
- Strong Master s candidates may also be considered.
Experience
- 8 10 years in higher education.
- 3 5 years in leadership/programme management roles.
- Experience with Foundation Year or pathway programmes required.
- International/U.S.-affiliated university experience preferred.
- Start-up university experience is a major advantage.
Skills Needed
- Curriculum design and accreditation knowledge.
- Leadership and stakeholder management.
- Data-driven decision making.
- LMS knowledge (especially Canvas).
- Strong English required; Arabic preferred.
