Deputy Academic Director

Deputy Academic Director
 

Reference number: JR244117

Location: Homeworking with the opportunity to access a central Leeds office

Working pattern: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Number of roles: 1

Salary: £60,000-£65,000 per annum

We are looking for a Deputy Academic Director to join our team. 

Reporting to the Academic Director, the Deputy Academic Director (Essex Online) provides academic leadership and oversees the Academic Services function for the Kaplan Open Learning / University of Essex Online partnership. Working closely with teams across Student Services, Learning Technology, and Quality, this position ensures the smooth operation of our expanding portfolio of online programmes.

The post-holder will draw on knowledge of higher education teaching, management, and curriculum design to manage academic staff and guide programme development in line with the organisation’s strategic direction. In addition, the Deputy Academic Director will play a central role in fostering and maintaining a positive, productive relationship with our university partner.

A detailed job description can be viewed here.  If the link does not work for you, please copy and paste the following URL into your web browser: https://tinyurl.com/ka5av34p

What you’ll bring to the role 
 

Essential:

• A postgraduate degree (Masters level or above).

• Significant experience in teaching and/or curriculum design within the education sector.

• Proven track record in leadership and line management of teams.

• Strong understanding of quality assurance frameworks, regulatory requirements, and the UK higher education landscape.

• Experience in developing and implementing strategies to enhance student satisfaction, progression, and retention.

• Ability to lead and participate effectively in governance committees, shaping policy and academic standards.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills, with a proven ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Desirable:

• A doctoral qualification (PhD or Professional Doctorate)

• A teaching qualification and/or Fellowship (or higher) of the Higher Education Academy (HEA).

• Experience in designing, implementing, and managing online or blended learning programmes.

• Active involvement in external academic networks and professional bodies.

• Experience in managing relationships with external stakeholders, such as accrediting bodies and partner institutions.

What we do 
 

Kaplan Open Learning is one of the world’s largest and most experienced providers of online degree education. We currently work with two UK partner Universities to deliver undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes. Our students complete their studies through online learning using our interactive virtual classroom with rich multi-media resources which provide a gateway to a learning community supported by a dedicated academic and professional services team.  

Our mission is to continue to transform students’ lives and careers by delivering and expanding our suite of innovative, industry led and career enhancing higher education programmes. 

What we offer 

As well as a competitive salary, hybrid/home working where possible, and paths for career progression, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: 

• 28 days annual leave* 

• Big discounts on Kaplan courses for you and your family

• 24/7 confidential helpline providing counselling and other support services 

• Company pension contributions 

• Maternity, Adoption, Shared Parental and Paternity/Partner pay which is well above statutory levels 

• Medicash Health Cash Plan 

*Please note that the annual leave entitlement will be calculated on a pro rata basis if the role is part time. 

How to apply 

To apply for this role please submit a CV along with a Cover Letter detailing how you meet the requirements of the role no later than 17 January 2025. Note, we recommend that you apply at the earliest as we reserve the right to close the role before the closing date if we have gathered a suitable shortlist.  

Additional Application Information 

As part of our commitment to safeguarding, depending on the nature of the role, successful candidates may be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.  

A sponsorship licence is a legal requirement for employers seeking to hire individuals from outside the UK or those who require a work visa to work in the country. Unfortunately, Kaplan Open Learning do not possess this licence at this time.

Application Support  

If you require support completing the application or wish to talk to someone about the role, please email the Recruitment Team kaplanstaff.recruitment@kaplan.com

Disability Confident Scheme and Reasonable Adjustments 

At Kaplan International, we are committed to working in a diverse organisation and strive to provide equality of opportunity for all. We encourage and welcome applications from individuals, regardless of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or identity, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnership.  

Following the submission of an application, applicants will receive details of how to request their application be considered under our Disability Confident Scheme.  Applicants will also be given information on how to request reasonable adjustments if selected for interview.