Academic Head

Mc Technology Staffing; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

An academic institution in South Africa is seeking a leader to drive academic policies and ensure compliance with education standards. Candidates should possess a Master's in an Engineering discipline, ideally a PhD, alongside at least 5 years of senior academic management experience. Responsibilities include overseeing quality assurance, managing staff recruitment, and leading educational initiatives. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills, along with a student-focused mindset committed to excellence and innovation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of senior academic management experience in South Africa's higher education sector.
• Strong understanding of CHE, DHET, ECSA, and NQF/HEQSF frameworks.
• Proven experience in curriculum development and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic leadership aligned with institutional mission and regulatory requirements.
• Lead the development and review of academic policies and procedures.
• Ensure programmes meet NQF/HEQSF standards and support student progression.
• Manage academic staff recruitment and professional development.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Analytical abilities

Organisational skills

Education

Masters degree in Engineering discipline

PhD preferred

Job description

Roles and Responsibilities

Provide academic leadership aligned with the institutions mission, vision, and regulatory requirements (CHE, DHET, ECSA).

Lead the development and review of academic policies, procedures, and strategies.

Ensure all programmes meet NQF / HEQSF standards and support student progression.

Oversee academic quality assurance and compliance with higher education regulations.

Manage academic staff recruitment, professional development, and performance.

Oversee student administration, academic advising, support initiatives, and appeals.

Act as the primary liaison with regulatory bodies, industry partners, and internal committees.

Support marketing and student recruitment for academic programmes.

Prepare and present academic and compliance reports to management and regulatory bodies.

Lead re-accreditation and audit processes.

Manage academic budgets and ensure efficient use of resources.

Contribute to operational and campus management as part of the leadership team.

Requirements

Masters degree in Engineering discipline (PhD preferred).

Minimum 5 years of senior academic management experience in South Africas higher education sector.

Strong understanding of CHE, DHET, ECSA, and NQF / HEQSF frameworks.

Proven experience in curriculum development, programme management, and quality assurance.

Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Strong organisational, analytical, and decision-making abilities.

Ability to inspire and manage academic teams effectively.

Student-focused mindset with a commitment to excellence and innovation.