Job Advert: Head of School / Academic Director

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of School / Academic Director to lead strategic academic operations, drive institutional growth, and ensure excellence in teaching and learning within our Private Higher Education Institution.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned education leader with a strong track record in accreditation, curriculum development, governance, and quality assurance, supported by extensive experience in higher education management.

Key Responsibilities

- Provide strategic leadership and academic direction across all programmes.

- Lead CHE, HEQC, DHET and SAQA accreditation and compliance processes.

- Oversee curriculum design, academic quality systems, and programme innovation.

- Drive student success through retention, throughput, and graduate outcome initiatives.

- Manage and develop academic staff, fostering a high-performance culture.

- Support institutional growth, financial sustainability, and operational excellence.

- Build strong partnerships with industry, regulators, and community stakeholders.

Requirements

- MBA (preferred) plus a Master’s degree in a relevant field.

- Over 10 years’ experience in secondary or higher education leadership

- Proven success in academic management, accreditation, staff development, and quality assurance.

- Strong understanding of digital learning, hybrid learning models, and LMS technologies.

What We Offer

- Opportunity to shape and lead academic strategy at an expanding institution.

- Collaborative, innovative environment committed to excellence and transformation.