Director of The English and Math Foundation Program/ University Preparedness Programs

American International University, Kuwait

Job Title:         Director of The English and Math Foundation Program/ University Preparedness Programs

Classification: Senior Leadership

Reports to:      Dean of Foundation Programs

Job Purpose:  Serve as a senior member of the Division of Academic Affairs; incumbent leads the supervision, administration, and evaluation of all English language and math preparatory program services and programs, spaces and operations, and associated personnel. All programs and activities are in support of the academic goals of the University and are designed to be assist students to successfully ready themselves for enrollment in academic credit bearing courses at the University. These programs are also designed to increase student persistence, satisfaction and retention. These preparatory English and math programs are known collectively as the Foundation Program.

Duties:

1. Serve as a member of the leadership team for the AIU Foundations programs, participating in discussions, decision-making, and policy making.
2. In conjunction with and reporting to the Dean of Foundations programs, provide overall direction, leadership and evaluation of all English and math preparatory program components; including affiliated study skills programs.
3. Develop and oversee preparatory programs that foster a sense of belonging to the University and directly impact student academic success.
4. Work closely with Testing Center to assist in the scoring of English testing components as needed.
5. Develop data to evaluate the academic success of the preparatory programs, work closely with faculty to evaluate the success of these programs, prepare reports using this data as needed.
6. Supervises the development and/or revision of curricula, and implements instructional programs.
7. Develop course schedules and faculty assignments.
8. Hire, supervise, evaluate personnel.
9. In conjunction with and reporting to the Dean of Foundations programs, direct work load and task assignments of all departmental staff to ensure successful and timely completion of all work.
10. Manage labs, equipment, and other departmental resources; evaluate and address departmental technology, infrastructure and space needs.
11. In conjunction with and reporting to the Dean of Foundations programs, provide leadership and develop appropriate recommendations for the implementation of technology applications in support of associated Foundation programs and services.
12. Communicate effectively to a wide variety of audiences including senior administrators, faculty, staff, parents, students, and community members.
13. In conjunction with and reporting to the Dean of Foundations programs, work closely with Director of Admissions and Director of Student Engagement Offices to ensure a smooth admission and later transition process for those students requiring academic remedial work prior to acceptance for academic credit coursework.
14. Work closely with the Academic Advisors for smooth and successful integration of preparatory program students into the University and to ensure these students receive active advisement services during their time in preparatory programs.
15. Develop and maintain policy and procedure manuals related to departmental programs and services.
16. Resolve issues and problems that may arise with faculty, staff, and students.
17. Teach at least one (1) course within the discipline per academic year.
18. Serve on a variety of committee and task forces.
19. Other duties as assigned.

Reporting Positions:

1. EAP and MIP instructors

Skills:

1. Must possess skills to be able to explain and demonstrate the essential functions of the position; demonstrated knowledge and experiences within all facets of the preparatory programs department
2. Ability to communicate ideas and information clearly and effectively at all levels within the University in English; must possess effective presentation skills
3. Ability to negotiate and reach mutual points of understanding among peers and colleagues
4. Demonstrated understanding of University structure, policies and procedures, particularly as it impacts the preparation, engagement and success of students
5. Knowledge and understanding of a wide range of instructional systems development, training

methods, techniques and formats

1. Demonstrated knowledge and competence as it relates specifically to academic skill building and preparatory programing and services
2. Demonstrated competency and experiences in the application, implementation and delivery of technology in preparatory programs
3. Demonstrable high ethical standards especially as it relates to the implementation of policies and procedures associated with the personal growth and development of students
4. Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple complex projects
5. Demonstrated ability to use sound judgement in decision-making, problem solving, organizational and time management skills
6. Must be capable of maintaining confidentiality of work related information and materials
7. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse group of students, peers and campus and community constituents
8. Ability to lead, supervise and evaluate team members to meet institution and department goals and objectives
9. Ability to work varied hours including evening and weekends

Experience and Education:

1. Master’s Degree in TESOL, Foreign Language or related discipline and five (5) years relevant work experience in higher education and/or teaching preferred
2. Experience in the supervision of department staff
3. Experience in the development, management and oversight of departmental budgets
4. Direct experience with preparatory programs strongly preferred
5. Direct experience or proven familiarity with admissions testing preferred