HOD - Liberal Arts & Humanities

Position Summary:

The Head of Department (HOD) of Liberal Arts will be responsible for leading, managing, and enhancing the academic programs and activities of the Liberal Arts department. This includes ensuring the delivery of high-quality teaching, overseeing curriculum development, fostering research, and providing leadership and support for faculty and students.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Academic Leadership:
   • Lead the development, review, and implementation of curriculum for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Liberal Arts.
   • Ensure that programs are aligned with academic standards, institutional goals, and current trends in the liberal arts field.
   • Promote and support innovative teaching methodologies, including interdisciplinary approaches.
2. Faculty Management:
   • Oversee the recruitment, development, and evaluation of faculty members.
   • Provide mentorship and guidance to faculty in their professional development, teaching, and research activities.
   • Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment within the department.
   • Conduct regular faculty meetings and ensure alignment of faculty goals with departmental and institutional objectives.
3. Student Affairs:
   • Ensure a high standard of academic support for students, including academic advising, career counselling, and development opportunities.
   • Address student concerns and feedback regarding courses, academic policies, and departmental activities.
   • Foster an inclusive and diverse learning environment where students are encouraged to excel.
4. Research and Scholarship:
   • Encourage and support faculty and student research in the liberal arts fields, including collaboration across disciplines.
   • Secure funding for research activities and partnerships with external organizations.
   • Organize academic conferences, symposia, and other research-driven events.
5. Administrative Responsibilities:
   • Develop and manage the department’s budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
   • Oversee scheduling of courses, teaching assignments, and departmental operations.
   • Maintain departmental records and ensure compliance with institutional policies and accreditation standards.
6. Strategic Planning:
   • Contribute to the development of the department’s long-term goals and objectives.
   • Align departmental initiatives with the broader vision and mission of the institution.
   • Assess departmental performance and implement improvements to meet academic and administrative goals.
7. Collaboration and External Relations:
   • Represent the department in meetings with senior administration, faculty, and external stakeholders.
   • Foster relationships with alumni, external organizations, and the wider community to enhance the department’s profile and resources.
   • Ensure the department stays current with changes in the field of liberal arts education.

Qualifications:

• Educational Background: Ph.D. in a field within the Liberal Arts (e.g., Humanities, Social Sciences, Arts).
• Experience: Significant experience in academic leadership, including teaching, research, and administrative roles in higher education.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead and manage a diverse team of faculty and staff.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with students, faculty, and external stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to address complex academic, administrative, and interpersonal challenges effectively.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and planning.
• Academic administration and budget management.
• Strong interpersonal and mentoring skills.
• Ability to foster a culture of academic excellence and innovation.
• Commitment to student success and academic integrity.
• Knowledge of current trends and challenges in liberal arts education.