Role Overview :The Dean (Academics) will serve as the chief academic officer for BIG Academy Saudi Arabia. This role requires a visionary leader with a deep background in Computer Science, AI, and Machine Learning to bridge the gap between advanced technical education and academic administration. The Dean will oversee the entire academic lifecycle—from curriculum design aligned with UK qualifications to faculty management and student success—ensuring the Academy meets international standards and contributes to Saudi Vision
Key Result Areas (KRAs) & Key Performance Indicators:
1: Academic Strategy & Curriculum Development Lead the design and evolution of the Academy’s academic programs, ensuring they remain industry-relevant and aligned with international accreditation. Responsibilities: • Spearhead the development of cutting-edge curricula in AI, ML, and Computer Science. • Ensure all programs align with UK Qualification frameworks (e.g., RQF, QAA) and local Saudi accreditation standards (NCAAA/TVTC). • Integrate industry-standard tools and methodologies into the syllabus.
KRA 2: Faculty Management & Development Build and sustain a high-performing academic team capable of delivering world-class technical education. Responsibilities: • Recruit, onboard, and mentor top-tier faculty members and department heads. • Implement a rigorous performance appraisal system for teaching staff. • Organize professional development workshops, focusing on pedagogical advancements in tech education.
KRA 3: Quality Assurance & Accreditation Maintain the highest standards of academic integrity and operational excellence. Responsibilities: • Establish an Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) to monitor academic delivery. • Manage relationships with UK partner universities or awarding bodies. • Oversee the creation of high-quality learning content (LMS materials, lab manuals, case studies).
KRA 4: Student Success & Learning Outcomes Ensure students achieve their learning goals and are prepared for the global workforce. Responsibilities: • Monitor student progression, retention, and graduation rates. • Implement intervention strategies for at-risk students. • Oversee final year capstone projects, ensuring they tackle real-world AI/ML problems.
KRA 5: Research & Industry Partnerships Position BIG Academy as a thought leader in the AI/ML space within the Kingdom. Responsibilities: • Forge partnerships with tech giants and local industry leaders for internships and joint research. • Encourage faculty and student publication in reputable journals. • Represent the Academy at conferences and academic forums.
Education:
Essential: PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related field from a reputable university.
Experience:
• Minimum 10 years of total academic experience. • Must have served as a Head of Department (HoD), Dean, or Principal for at least 3-5 years. • Proven track record in Curriculum Development and Content Creation for technical subjects. Skills & Competencies: UK Education System: Deep understanding of UK Higher Education standards, credit frameworks, and quality assurance processes (e.g., Pearson BTEC, British University partnerships). Leadership: Strong team management skills with the ability to lead a diverse, multicultural faculty. Technical Proficiency: Ability to evaluate code, technical projects, and AI models to ensure teaching quality remains high. Adaptability: Willingness to relocate to Saudi Arabia and adapt to the local culture and regulatory environment. 4. Behavioral Competencies Strategic Vision: Ability to foresee ed-tech trends and pivot the academy's focus accordingly. Cultural Intelligence: Sensitivity to the cultural nuances of working in the Middle East. Decisiveness: Ability to make tough administrative decisions regarding budget, personnel, and policy.