Head of Digital Learning Innovations

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous paid time off

Learning budgets and conferences

Executive-level benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Head of Digital Learning Innovations in Durban, South Africa, to lead transformative educational initiatives. The role focuses on developing and implementing cutting-edge digital learning strategies, including online and blended offerings, leveraging AI and analytics to improve student outcomes.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D./Master's in a relevant field, 10+ years in educational technology, and a proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Educational Technology, Computer Science, Instructional Design, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in educational technology and innovation leadership.
• Proven success in developing and implementing large-scale digital learning strategies.
• Expertise in AI, VR/AR, adaptive learning systems, and learning analytics.
• Strong understanding of learning theories, instructional design, and digital pedagogy.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage and inspire teams.
• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the strategic vision for digital learning innovation across the organization.
• Identify, evaluate, and pilot emerging educational technologies, platforms, and pedagogical approaches.
• Lead the development and implementation of innovative digital learning solutions, including online courses, blended learning models, and immersive experiences.
• Collaborate with faculty, instructional designers, and IT teams to ensure the successful integration of digital tools and resources.
• Oversee the collection and analysis of learning data to inform strategic decisions and improve learning effectiveness.
• Foster a culture of innovation and experimentation within the digital learning team and the wider educational community.
• Manage budgets and resources allocated for digital learning innovation projects.
• Stay abreast of global trends and best practices in digital education, artificial intelligence in learning, and adaptive technologies.
• Develop partnerships with technology providers and research institutions to explore collaborative opportunities.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to a team of digital learning specialists and technologists.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Stakeholder management

Analytical

Problem-solving

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in Educational Technology / related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a visionary and strategic Head of Digital Learning Innovations to lead transformative initiatives in education from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior leadership role will be responsible for exploring, developing, and implementing cutting-edge digital learning strategies and technologies to enhance educational delivery and student outcomes. You will spearhead the innovation pipeline, driving the adoption of new tools and methodologies that redefine the learning experience. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of emerging educational technologies, learning analytics, and digital pedagogy. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of learning within a forward-thinking organization based in Durban. We seek a dynamic leader who can inspire change and foster a culture of continuous innovation in digital education.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the strategic vision for digital learning innovation across the organization.


• Identify, evaluate, and pilot emerging educational technologies, platforms, and pedagogical approaches.


• Lead the development and implementation of innovative digital learning solutions, including online courses, blended learning models, and immersive experiences.


• Collaborate with faculty, instructional designers, and IT teams to ensure the successful integration of digital tools and resources.


• Oversee the collection and analysis of learning data to inform strategic decisions and improve learning effectiveness.


• Foster a culture of innovation and experimentation within the digital learning team and the wider educational community.


• Manage budgets and resources allocated for digital learning innovation projects.


• Stay abreast of global trends and best practices in digital education, artificial intelligence in learning, and adaptive technologies.


• Develop partnerships with technology providers and research institutions to explore collaborative opportunities.


• Provide leadership and mentorship to a team of digital learning specialists and technologists.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Educational Technology, Computer Science, Instructional Design, or a related field.


• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in educational technology, digital learning, and innovation leadership.


• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing large-scale digital learning strategies.


• Expertise in current and emerging educational technologies (e.g., AI, VR/AR, adaptive learning systems, learning analytics).


• Strong understanding of learning theories, instructional design principles, and digital pedagogy.


• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage and inspire teams.


• Excellent strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.


• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.


• Experience managing budgets and project portfolios in Durban.


• A forward-thinking mindset and a passion for transforming education through technology.

Benefits

• This leadership position offers a highly competitive salary, executive-level benefits package, and significant opportunities for strategic impact in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.


• Employees enjoy comprehensive health insurance, retirement plan contributions, and generous paid time off.


• We support continuous professional growth through dedicated learning budgets and conferences.


• Join a collaborative environment focused on pioneering the future of digital education from Durban.