President

President

American International University - Kuwait City

Classification: 

Executive

Reports to:     

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Job Purpose:

The President of American International University serves as the Chief Executive and Administrative Officer at the discretion of the CEO and Board of Trustees. The incumbent will execute directly or by delegation, all executive and administrative duties in connection with the operation of the University. The incumbent will provide visionary, strategic, and forward-thinking leadership while promoting well organized and sustainable procedures and policies, excellence in teaching, effective learning, and lifelong student success.  For the early years, the President will lead the senior staff in successfully implementing the financial and marketing plans developed by the owners’ group and the programs developed with the institutional partners. During this time the President will report directly to the Owners Representative/Executive Director; after the early years the President will report to the Board of Trustees.

Duties:

1. Make policy recommendations to the Board on all matters that affect the University
2. Recommend all additions or changes in personnel and in personnel policies
3. Submit an annual budget and administer the Board approved budget.
4. Report to the Board on the financial condition of the University on a regular basis
5. Attend all Board of Trustee meetings, as a non-voting member with voice. Oversee all presentations to the Board by University staff
6. Work closely with the institutional Partner universities to ensuring a strong and active engagement with the universities and the successful implementation of programs and services
7. Exercise broad, discretionary power in order to fulfill University mission
8. Be responsible for the formulation of all reports as may be required by the Board and/or government agencies
9. Serve as the institutional champion, building an effective and cohesive leadership team with a core commitment to academic excellence, student engagement and student success
10. Provide faculty and staff opportunities to grow, engage and develop their professional expertise
11. Sustain a highly qualified faculty and staff by providing a commitment to orientation, training, and information sharing so employees are better equipped to help and motivate students
12. Cultivate cross-campus collaboration between faculty, staff and students
13. Facilitate a culture of continuous improvement in this new University
14. Serve as highly visible ambassador for the University to the external community; establish innovative partnerships; represent AIU at functions
15. Utilize data to inspire innovation and changes for improving student outcomes
16. Encourage a spirit of collegiality and demonstrate a talent for inspiring others to action
17. Provide oversight for the improvements in the infrastructure of a University, including the physical facilities and information technology; lead sustainability efforts in University operations
18. Stay abreast of the laws, regulations and policies of the State of Kuwait, particularly those impacting the University
19. Weekend and evening duty as well as travel required
20. Perform such other duties as may be assigned or delegated by the Board of Trustees

Reporting Departments/Positions:

1. Division of Academic Affairs
2. Division of Administration
3. Division of Finance
4. Division of Enrollment and Student Life
5. Additional Divisions/Departments when they are created, including Alumni Affairs Department
6. Administrative Assistant

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 University administration
2. Ability to communicate ideas and information clearly and effectively at all levels within the University in English
3. Excellent oral and written communication skills with a talent for listening and forging consensus
4. Ability to lead by example, using the highest levels of academic and personal integrity in all interactions, and requiring the same from all community members
5. Possess ability to create strategic partnerships with business, other universities and other related organizations
6. Possess demonstrable ability to understand financial planning, spreadsheets and budget creation and oversight
7. Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple complex projects
8. Ability to maintain calming demeanor and rationale in crisis or heated environment
9. Demonstrated ability to use sound judgment in decision-making and problem solving
10. Must be capable of maintaining confidentiality of work related information and materials
11. Demonstrated ability to plan, prioritize, and problem-solve broad strategic initiatives
12. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse group of professionals, students and parents, community members and constituencies
13. Ability to lead, inspire, supervise and evaluate personnel in an effort to meet institution goals and objectives
14. Demonstrated competency, experiences and/or understanding of the value, application and implementation of technology in higher education
15. Demonstrated proficiency in the use of standard software applications
16. Ability to work evening and weekends and travel as required

Experience and Education:

1. Advanced degree required (Master's, J.D., Ed. D., Ph.D., or equivalent); Ph.D. preferred
2. An appropriate combination of academic and leadership experience, including a minimum of five years of leadership at the senior level
3. Experience in strategic, educational, and facilities master planning
4. Demonstrated visionary, innovative, and effective leadership
5. Demonstrated understanding of, sensitivity to, and respect for diverse cultural backgrounds
6. Knowledge of and experience in preparing for institutional and program accreditation
7. Demonstrated organizational skills with an emphasis in budget and resource management
8. Successful experiences in the development, management and oversight of institutional, divisional and departmental budgets
9. Proven track record of team-building acumen and demonstrated successful leadership in a complex environment
10. Experience in staff development and evaluation
11. Demonstrated deep regard for students and appreciation for all aspects of student life
12. Evidenced track record in advocating and understanding the tenants for student success
13. Demonstrated evidence of creating a united cohesive team focused on teaching, learning, and student success
14. Experience with research and use of data in decision making

About American International University:

AIU is a new institution of higher education in Kuwait with the first student cohort admitted in fall 2019. It is a private, co-educational institution offering undergraduate degrees based on the American model of higher education. Through its educational programs, the University serves the intellectual, cultural, and personal growth of all members of its community. AIU’s offers degree programs in Engineering, Architecture, and Design, and Business Administration where the language of instruction is English.

For more information about AIU visit: www.aiu.edu.kw

How to apply:

To apply for this position, please submit your resume, cover letter, and one photo to the below email address:

ExecutiveHR@aiu.edu.kw