General Manager- Academic Engagement

Role Overview:

One of our Partner Organizations is seeking an experienced General Manager, Academic Engagement, who will play a pivotal role in building and nurturing partnerships with academic institutions, researchers, and thought leaders to advance their mission. This role is central to integrating compassion-based frameworks into academic discourse, fostering innovative research collaborations, and designing impactful programs for educators and students.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced professional with a strong background in academic engagement, program management, and advocacy, coupled with a passion for education, research, and social transformation.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Academic Partnerships and Collaboration

• Build and manage relationships with academic institutions, universities, research centers, and think tanks globally
• Identify and pursue collaborative opportunities for joint research, training, and program development with academic stakeholders
• Act as the primary liaison between organisations and academic partners, ensuring seamless communication and mutual alignment on goals.

2. Program Design and Implementation

• Develop academic engagement programs such as fellowships, visiting scholar initiatives, and collaborative research projects
• Organize webinars, conferences, and other forums to foster dialogue on compassion and social justice in education
• Coordinate the creation and implementation of curricula and training materials that promote compassion.

3. Research and Innovation

• Support research teams in initiatives that promote and advance the understanding and application of compassion.
• Support in developing academic content such as white papers, reports, and presentations to highlight organisations work and thought leadership.

4. Advocacy and Outreach

• Advocate for compassion-driven approaches in educational systems and academic policies through engagement with educators and policymakers
• Facilitate discussions on compassion in academia by organizing panels, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events with thought leaders.

5. Monitoring and Reporting

• Track the impact of academic engagement initiatives and provide data-driven insights to enhance outcomes
• Prepare regular reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, showcasing achievements and areas for growth
• Maintain a database of academic contacts, program results, and research findings to inform strategic planning.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Masters degree in Business, Education, Social Sciences, or a related field; additional certifications or training in leadership or academic management is a plus
• 8-10 years plus of experience in academic engagement, program management, or partnership development, preferably in the non-profit or education sectors
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with experience working with diverse academic stakeholders
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Understanding of global education trends
• Experience with research methodologies and developing academic publications or reports.