Dean, Faculty of Arts and Sciences

The Role

Reporting to the Provost, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) _is a member of the University’s senior academic team and serves as the primary ambassador for the Faculty in the community. This is a unique opportunity to play a central role in refining the strategy and overall direction for arts and sciences education at AKU whilst strengthening and elaborating current programmes and research.

The Dean advises the Provost, works collaboratively with and supports other leaders to achieve the University goals, uses influence to align the Faculty with University priorities, and models institutional values and competencies. The Dean is responsible for education and scholarships, as well as ensuring the quality and integrity of the Faculty in research, teaching, outreach and community engagement activities. The Dean is accountable for the creation and implementation of the Faculty’s strategic plans, including comprehensive budget and financial management to ensure outcomes are achieved. The Dean is the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the Faculty and promotes the Faculty through visibility at local, regional, national, and international events. In collaboration with senior colleagues, he / she oversees fundraising, communication, alumni engagement activities, and collaborates and consults with both internal and external stakeholders.

The Dean will ensure that the various dimensions of the Faculty of Arts and Science are achieved through :

• Working to realise the vision and guidance of the AKU Chancellor and Board of Trustees, embodied in the mission and founding principles established for FAS.
• Developing an institutional culture within FAS and AKU, defined by innovation, sensitivity, flexibility, creativity, academic excellence, professionalism, ethics, social responsibility, synergy, confidence, and energy.
• Building an open student-centered culture, including enhancing academic and extracurrirular activities, mentorship and inclusivity for a diverse student body, student mental health and wellness, and opportunities for work-integrated learning.
• Operating efficiently within specified time frames and budgets, with rigorous attention to ensuring long-term financial sustainability, including through philanthropy.
• Internationally strengthening the wider reputation, reach and priorities of the Aga Khan University and the Aga Khan Development Network to which it belongs, including building high-level exchanges for faculty and opportunities for students.
• Collaborating with AKU’s East Africa campuses and the Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations based in London.

Key Responsibilities :

The requirements

Qualifications and Experience :

Please note : the applications for this position will be managed by a third party Executive Search Firm.

The search committee will begin reviewing applications from November 30th, 2025 ; however, the position will remain open until filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Comprehensive employment reference checks for the finalists will be conducted.

Sector

Social Development