Principal Learning Strategist

2U; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational technology company is seeking a Principal Learning Strategist in Cape Town. This role involves shaping the strategic vision for innovative learning initiatives while leveraging data and analytics to drive decisions. Candidates should have an advanced degree in Adult Education or a related field or equivalent professional experience, along with proven expertise in learning design, cross-functional leadership, and effective communication skills. The position also includes benefits such as subsidised medical aid and two complimentary short courses per year.

Benefits

Subsidised medical aid

Two complimentary Getsmarter short courses per year

Generous leave policy including time off for volunteering

Qualifications

• Advanced degree or 10 years of experience in Adult Education or Educational Technology.
• Mastery in learning design and program development.
• Proven leadership of cross-functional initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement scalable learning frameworks.
• Lead development of high-ROI educational products.
• Leverage data to guide program design.

Skills

Learning design

Strategic program development

Pedagogical innovation

Data-driven decision-making

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Accessibility principles

Education

Advanced degree in Adult Education or related field

10 years of equivalent high-level experience

Tools

Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Analytics tools

Job description

Principal Learning Strategist

At 2U we are all in on purpose. We are motivated by our mission to eliminate the back row in education and connected by our shared passion to deliver world‑class digital education at scale. As the parent company of edX, 2U powers more than 4 000 online higher‑education offerings from free courses to full degrees, partnering with over 230 colleges, universities and corporate partners to unlock human potential.

What We're Looking For

The Principal Learning Strategist is a highly specialized and business‑critical role responsible for shaping the strategic vision and execution of 2U’s most innovative and impactful learning initiatives. The role requires unparalleled expertise in pedagogy, learning design and strategic program development to influence and align cross‑functional priorities.

Responsibilities (Not Exhaustive)

• Strategic Leadership in Learning Design
  • Define and lead the implementation of transformative, scalable learning frameworks.
  • Drive strategic decisions on pedagogy, program structure, and emergent technology integration.
  • Serve as the organization’s foremost expert on learner‑centered design.
  • Partner with leadership to identify and address gaps in learning strategy.
• Product Development and Innovation
  • Spearhead design of high‑ROI products and pilot programs focused on scalability and workforce alignment.
  • Pilot and refine experimental approaches to instructional design and emergent technologies.
  • Consult with internal and external partners to shape programmatic solutions for diverse audiences.
• Data‑Informed Strategy and Insights
  • Leverage analytics and labor market intelligence to guide program design and portfolio decisions.
  • Establish frameworks for data‑driven decision‑making across product lines.
  • Provide critical insights and recommendations to leadership on investments and innovations.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration and Influence
  • Act as a key strategic advisor across business units.
  • Facilitate integration of pedagogical strategies into cross‑functional workflows.
  • Lead cross‑functional teams in organizational transformation initiatives.
• Organizational Culture and Thought Leadership
  • Cultivate a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Serve as a public‑facing thought leader, contributing white papers, advisory reports, and conference presentations.
  • Mentor and coach colleagues, elevating expertise across the organization.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Adult Education, Educational Technology, or related field OR 10 years of equivalent high‑level professional experience.
• Demonstrated mastery in learning design, strategic program development, and pedagogical innovation.
• Proven ability to lead high‑stakes cross‑functional initiatives with measurable impact.
• Strong proficiency in research and analytics with a track record of data‑driven decision‑making.
• Expertise in leveraging LMS platforms (e.g., Canvas, edX) and emerging technologies (e.g., AI, VR).
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with a history of influencing senior leadership.
• Deep understanding of accessibility and inclusivity principles in learning design.

Other Attributes That Will Help You In This Role

Occasional travel may be required for cross‑functional collaboration or external partnerships.

Physical Requirements

Ability to perform typical office functions, including prolonged periods of working at a computer.

Management Responsibilities

No direct reports.

Benefits & Culture

We offer comprehensive benefits (unique to each country) and excellent work/life balance. Full‑time roles in South Africa include: two complimentary Getsmarter short courses per year, subsidised medical aid with Discovery Health, a 2 % 2U contribution to the Discovery Life Pension Fund, an Employee Assistance Program, and a generous leave policy including time off for volunteering, study, sports, and holiday leave.

2U Diversity & Inclusion Statement

2U is committed to building a culture of belonging, respect, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, fostering a workplace where differences are empowered and similarities embraced.

Equal Opportunity Employer

2U is an equal‑opportunity employer that does not discriminate against applicants or employees and ensures equal employment opportunity for all persons, regardless of race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship, military or veteran status, or any other classifications protected by law. 2U’s equal‑opportunity policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, job benefits and pay.

Employment Eligibility in South Africa

We are required by law to verify your ability to work lawfully in South Africa. Candidates must provide a copy of an identity document or passport and any applicable work permit if a foreign national, along with an updated CV.

Application Details

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. Employment type: Full Time. Vacancy: 1. Experience required: years.