Director of the Foundation Program

Director of the Foundation Program

Classification: Director Level

Reports to:  Vice President for Academic Affairs

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 

Foundation Program Profile 

The Foundation Program provides comprehensive academic preparation for students entering the University who require additional support in developing the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed for success in credit-bearing courses. The Program encompasses English and Mathematics, together with relevant academic and study skills components, and is designed to strengthen students’ academic readiness and confidence.

The Program works closely with academic schools and student support units to facilitate students’ successful transition into their degree programs. Through effective teaching, student support, academic monitoring, and continuous improvement, the Foundation Program contributes to student progression, persistence, and overall academic success.

Position Summary

The Foundation Program is seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of the Foundation Program to provide strategic academic and operational leadership for the University’s Foundation Program. The Director will oversee the delivery and continuous development of the English and Mathematics preparatory curriculum, ensuring that students develop the academic skills and competencies required for successful transition into credit-bearing courses.

The Director will lead program planning, faculty coordination, curriculum and instructional quality, student progression, and continuous improvement, while working collaboratively with academic and administrative units to support student success and advance the goals of the University.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the English and Mathematics preparatory programs, including study skills components.
• Lead the development and implementation of program goals, procedures, and activities in alignment with the VPAA and relevant academic leadership.
• Oversee course scheduling, faculty coordination, teaching assignments, and general program logistics.
• Monitor student performance, progression, and retention data and use relevant data to inform program improvement.
• Coordinate with Admissions, Academic Advising, Student Support, and other relevant units to support students’ transition into and progression through credit-bearing programs.
• Oversee designated learning spaces, laboratories, instructional resources, and other program-related facilities and resources.
• Promote continuous improvement in curriculum, teaching, assessment, and student support within the Foundation Program.
• Prepare and maintain program reports, documentation, and performance updates as required.
• Support faculty development, performance, and instructional quality within the Foundation Program.
• Represent the Foundation Program on relevant committees and contribute to university-wide academic initiatives as required.
• Teach one course per semester, or as otherwise determined by the University based on program needs.

Qualifications

• PhD in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, Mathematics, Education, or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in higher education, preferably in foundation, preparatory, or developmental education programs.
• Required experience in academic leadership, program management, and faculty coordination.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong academic leadership and program management skills.
• Expertise in English and/or Mathematics education and student academic support.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead diverse faculty teams and manage program resources effectively.
• Strong data-driven approach to student success and continuous improvement.
• Commitment to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and student success.

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 in Spring Semester 2027.