Academic Director

Reports To: Senior Director, Fordham University London

Fordham University London is seeking to appoint a collaborative and thoughtful Academic Director. This is a key position in our leadership structure, and the ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate high levels of academic and administrative skills, alongside a clear connectivity and alignment with the University's mission and values.

Context:

Fordham University London is the London campus of Fordham University, the Jesuit University of New York, USA. Fordham London coordinates semester programmes for undergraduate study abroad students across business and liberal arts, as well as hosting visiting postgraduate study groups, and delivering conferences, seminars and professional development opportunities which relate to the University’s strategic mission.

Over 500 undergraduate students study abroad at Fordham London every academic year. The delivery of these programmes is led by a dedicated local administrative team, an exceptional group of adjunct faculty and the essential facilities and support staff.

Fordham University is rooted in nearly five centuries of Jesuit tradition which embodies a spirit of profound engagement. This spirit fuels our deep exploration of ideas, our connection with global communities, our commitment to addressing injustice, our appreciation for beauty, and our embrace of the full spectrum of human experience.

Our enduring Jesuit heritage and mission are largely defined by three core principles, echoing from their Latin origins:

• Strive for excellence in everything you do.
• Care for others.
• Fight for justice.

This foundational philosophy culminates in an education that truly empowers and prepares our students for the world.

Position Summary:

The Academic Director plays a crucial role in shaping and leading the academic mission of Fordham University in London. This position is responsible for the overall academic quality and strategic direction of all programs offered at the London Center, ensuring an exceptional educational experience for students.

The Academic Director manages the Academic Programme Manager, Student Experience Coordinator and Academic Technology Lead (remote). They also coordinate the work of the Head of Experiential Learning (part-time) and the Head of Research and Public Programmes (part-time).

This full-time role is primarily in-person at our London campus, with the possibility of some remote work during non-term time.

Essential Functions:

• In collaboration with the Senior Director, develop and implement the strategic vision for academic programs in London, aligning with the academic priorities of the Provost, Vice-Provost for Administration and respective Deans, Vice-Deans, Associate and Assistant Deans of the University’s schools, amongst others.
• Identify and lead the development of new academic programs and courses, conducting market research, curriculum design, and faculty recruitment.
• Champion academic excellence by fostering a culture of innovation and best practices in teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Oversee the quality and delivery of all courses offered in London, ensuring consistency with academic standards and student learning outcomes.
• Lead discussions on pedagogy, faculty development, and curricular innovation.
• Create and disseminate resources for faculty in teaching, learning, and assessment.
• In coordination with the Senior Director, oversee the hiring, onboarding, and professional development of faculty, including primarily adjunct faculty, and visiting scholars.
• Support faculty in their teaching and research endeavors, providing mentorship and guidance.
• Manage the Academics department, ensuring efficient and effective administrative support for faculty and students.
• Oversee academic operations, including student advising, course scheduling, faculty contracts and academic budgets.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures related to academics, ensuring compliance with university regulations and best practices.
• Oversee the development and implementation of experiential learning, internship and volunteering opportunities, and build connections with appropriate organisations.
• Facilitate integration and alignment with Fordham University in New York in regards to programming, pedagogy, curriculum, policy, procedures, and student support services.

Additional Functions:

• Foster a collaborative and supportive environment for faculty and staff at Fordham London.
• Represent Fordham London at appropriate study abroad and international academic and professional conferences, events, and partnerships.
• Enhance the profile and impact of Fordham London through collaborations with external partners, academic institutions, and the broader community.
• Foster connections between the academic communities in London and New York, including faculty exchanges and international programmes and seminars.
• In collaboration with the Senior Director, work closely with the study abroad office to ensure effective programme delivery and support recruitment activities.
• The Academic Director is also encouraged to teach courses in their area of expertise.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D., Ed.D., or equivalent in a relevant academic discipline.
• Significant experience in higher education, with a demonstrated record of success in academic leadership, teaching, and/or program development in study abroad or international education.
• Ability to lead and to work in collaboration with a diverse group of adjunct faculty and administrators.
• Experience in curriculum development, instructional design, and assessment.
• Strong understanding of contemporary pedagogical approaches and best practices in higher education.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Strong commitment to student success and academic excellence.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in an international or intercultural context is highly desirable.
• Experience in managing academic budgets and resources.
• Experience with learning management systems and other educational technologies.
• Familiarity with quality assurance frameworks.

Application:

All applicants must be able to lawfully accept employment in the UK. If you are not a UK citizen, please address your right to work in the UK in your covering letter.

Applicants should submit a detailed CV and covering letter via the ‘Apply’ button above.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 22nd June.

Salary: £60,000 to £65,000 (plus contributory pension) commensurate with experience.

Start Date: As soon as possible.