Academic Head

MC Technology Staffing; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution in South Africa is seeking a candidate for an academic leadership position. Responsibilities include developing academic policies, ensuring compliance with regulations, managing staff, and overseeing student progression. The ideal candidate will have a master's degree and 5+ years in senior academic management. This role emphasizes strong leadership and organizational skills, contributing to excellence and innovation in education.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of senior academic management experience in South Africa's higher education sector.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks CHE, DHET, ECSA, and NQF / HEQSF.
• 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 strategies.
• Manage academic staff recruitment and professional development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Analytical Skills

Decision Making

Education

Masters degree in Education or relevant 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 Education or a relevant 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.