Dean – School of Arts and Sciences

Dean – School of Arts and Sciences (Relocation to Kuwait Required)

Classification: Executive / Academic Leadership Reports To: Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA)

About The American International University

American International University (AIU) is a private institution in Kuwait, founded in 2019, offering undergraduate programs in Engineering and Computing, Architecture and Design, Business, Arts and Sciences, and Education. The programs are delivered in English and follow the American model of higher education. AIU serves a community of more than 4,000 students and is implementing the RISE Strategy 2026–2030, a five-year institutional transformation strategy anchored in research development, international accreditation, student success, employability, and community engagement.

For more information, visit: www.aiu.edu.kw

School of Arts and Sciences Profile

The School of Arts and Sciences at the American International University in Kuwait comprises disciplines in Chemistry, Biotechnology, Physics, Mathematics, English Literature, Humanities, and Education. The School offers a broad interdisciplinary foundation in the natural sciences, mathematics, humanities, and education, equipping students with critical thinking, analytical, communication, and research skills essential for academic and professional success.

Scope of Work

The Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences serves as the chief academic officer, providing strategic vision and operational leadership for the school. The Dean promotes excellence in teaching, scholarship, and community engagement; supports innovative academic programs; and advances diversity in faculty and student recruitment.

The role also involves fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening connections with local and international communities, and enhancing the School's visibility and resources to support its academic mission and future growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for the School of Arts and Sciences, including academic programs, faculty, and operations across all disciplines.
• Oversee curriculum development, program assessment, and continuous improvement to ensure academic quality and relevance.
• Manage budgeting, resource allocation, and strategic planning.
• Lead faculty recruitment, development, and performance management.
• Promote research and maintain active engagement with the Advisory Committee, accreditation, and quality assurance processes aligned with international standards.
• Ensure accurate external communications and strengthen industry partnerships, internships, and experiential learning opportunities.
• Represent the School in university leadership and contribute to institutional strategy.

Reporting Departments (If Applicable)

• Faculty in the School of Arts and Sciences

• Administrative and program support staff

 Minimum Qualifications: 

The ideal candidate shall demonstrate experience in professional and academic positions, as well as a strong record in teaching and outstanding academic achievements at the international level.

The candidate is expected to demonstrate ongoing contributions in their field of specialization through published research in recognized international scientific journals, as well as participation in exhibitions, conferences, and symposiums, in addition to possessing the following degrees, qualifications, and professional experience:

• Ph.D. or equivalent from a recognized university.

• The rank of Professor in one of the School's disciplines..

• A record of excellence in teaching and research appropriate to the rank of Professor in one of the School's disciplines.

• Leadership qualities and a proven research background in a discipline represented within the School.

• A clear vision for developing higher education in general and for theSchool in particular.

• Full familiarity with the credit hour and academic year (semester) system.

• Distinguished managerial experience in the affairs of higher education, preferably at the level of a college dean in a reputable university.

• Experience with the standards of program accreditation by specialized commissions at national education institutions.

• Acumen in the area of human resources and administrative and financial concepts, practices, policies, and procedures.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with large sectors of a diverse community.

• Experience in communicating with universities, professional and academic institutions, associations, unions, companies and business administration institutions, and other institutions within the field of education and research.

• Bi-lingual proficiency in English and Arabic (spoken and written) is a plus.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and support diverse academic disciplines across the sciences, humanities, and education.

• Experience working within American, American-style, or internationally accredited higher education systems is preferred.

Additional Qualifications

Priority will be given to applicants with the following qualifications:

• Managerial experience and the skills necessary to launch pioneering projects.

• Multi-cultural skills.

• Active participation in reputable organizations.

• Knowledge of the methods of evaluation and related matters.

• Documentation demonstrating support for the achievements of teachers and students.

• Understanding of the latest teaching methods, including the use of technology in the teaching process.

• Demonstration of a commitment to enriching the educational experience of students.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the Job Opportunities section on our website and submit a resume and cover letter via: https://aiu.edu.kw/careers/jobs

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The successful candidate is expected to commence employment immediately.