Senior Director

Role Description The Senior Director will provide strategic leadership and oversight for academic programs, research initiatives, and industry partnerships within the College of Food Technology. This part-time hybrid role is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with a combination of on-site responsibilities and the flexibility to work from home for certain tasks. Day-to-day activities include setting long-term institutional goals, guiding curriculum and program development, supervising senior staff and faculty leaders, and fostering collaborations with government bodies, industry partners, and international institutions. The Senior Director will monitor academic quality, support accreditation and compliance processes, and lead initiatives to strengthen placements, alumni engagement, and innovation in Food Science and Technology. The role also involves representing the college at key forums, advising on resource allocation, and promoting a culture of inclusive excellence and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership experience in higher education or research institutions, preferably in Food Science, Technology, or a related field.
• Proven ability to guide curriculum development, academic quality assurance, and accreditation or regulatory compliance processes.
• Experience in building and managing partnerships with industry, government agencies, and international organizations.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational, and decision-making skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives on a part-time basis.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and conflict-resolution skills, with a collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• Track record of supporting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, ideally within food processing, safety, or allied domains.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in Food Science and Technology, Agricultural Technology, or a closely related discipline is highly preferred.
• Prior experience working in or with institutions in the Middle East or familiarity with regional education and industry landscapes is an advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site responsibilities in Dubai with remote collaboration and governance.