Dean of College of LAW (CLAW)

American University; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 440,000 - 662,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in the United Arab Emirates is seeking an experienced Dean of the College of Law. This pivotal role involves providing visionary leadership, ensuring academic excellence, and maintaining international accreditations while enhancing partnerships with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a doctorate in law, at least five years of academic leadership experience, and a strong track record in legal education. Competitive compensation is offered.

Benefits

Health insurance

Professional development opportunities

Support for research and publications

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressive academic leadership experience.
• Distinguished records of teaching, research, and service.
• Established connections with legal education networks.

Responsibilities

• Provide vision and direction for legal education and research.
• Ensure curriculum compliance with international accreditation.
• Enhance student recruitment and career readiness.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication

Negotiation

Decision-making

Education

Doctorate in Law or equivalent

Job description

The American University in the Emirates (AUE) is seeking a highly qualified and experienced individual to serve as Dean of the College of Law (CLAW). This leadership position is pivotal in shaping the strategic direction of the College, ensuring academic and research excellence, maintaining international accreditations, and strengthening partnerships with government agencies, international organizations, and industry leaders.

Purpose of the Role

Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the College of Law by fostering excellence in legal education and research, enhancing professional practice, and developing collaborative relationships with government, the legal profession, and community stakeholders.

Position Summary

The Dean is the chief academic and administrative officer of the College of Law. The role encompasses faculty and staff leadership, curriculum innovation, accreditation compliance, research and publication growth, student success initiatives, resource management, and external engagement—ensuring that the College aligns with AUE’s mission and strategic goals.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Doctorate (Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree) in Law or a closely related legal discipline from an internationally accredited university.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive academic leadership experience (Associate Dean or higher) in an accredited institution.
• Distinguished records of teaching, research, and service in the legal field.
• Strong connections with legal education networks, professional associations, government agencies, and community partners.
• Demonstrated ability in strategic planning, faculty development, accreditation, and student success initiatives.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and decision‑making skills.

Preferred Skills

• Expertise with national and international accreditation processes (e.g., CAA, ABA‑equivalent, or other professional legal standards).
• Knowledge of emerging trends in legal education, instructional technology, and experiential learning.
• Experience in fundraising, grant writing, and budget management.
• Ability to foster an inclusive and collaborative academic environment.

Reporting Lines

The Dean supervises Department Chairs, Program Directors, Associate Deans, and College Coordinators.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership
   Provide vision and direction to advance the College’s mission in legal education, research, and community impact. Align College initiatives with national and international trends in law and policy.
2. Academic Excellence & Accreditation
   Oversee curriculum development, program review, and accreditation compliance. Ensure programs meet international standards of legal education and professional training.
3. Faculty Development
   Recruit, mentor, and evaluate faculty. Promote professional growth, scholarships, and high standards of teaching and research.
4. Research & Innovation
   Foster a strong research culture in law and related interdisciplinary fields. Support faculty and students in obtaining research grants and publishing scholarly work.
5. Student Success
   Enhance student recruitment, retention, and career readiness through internships, moot courts, clinics, and mentorship programs. Ensure students are prepared for leadership roles in legal practice, government, and academia.
6. External Partnerships
   Build and strengthen relationships with legal firms, government agencies, regulatory bodies, and international partners. Develop collaborative initiatives to improve legal education and practice.
7. Resource & Financial Management
   Oversee budgeting, fundraising, and allocation of resources within the College. Secure external funding through grants, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships.
8. Policy & Advocacy
   Contribute to regional and national discussions on legal education and policy. Advocate for innovations in legal pedagogy and practice.
9. Diversity & Inclusion
   Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in the College’s programs and operations. Foster a culturally responsive learning and working environment.
10. Advancement & Fundraising
    Identify and cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, and external funding sources.
11. Additional Duties
    Perform other responsibilities assigned by the University’s senior leadership.

About American University in the Emirates (AUE)

AUE is located in Dubai International Academic City. It is accredited by SACSCOC, CAA, and has multiple colleges (College of Law, College of Education, College of Design, College of Business Administration, College of Media and Mass Communication, College of Computer Information Technology, and College of Security and Strategic Studies). AUE is a hub of innovation and growth, offering world‑class education.