Dean - School of Architecture & Design

Dean – School of Architecture & Design

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 based on the American model of higher education. AIU provides degrees in Engineering, Architecture and Design, and Business Administration, with English as the language of instruction. The University is committed to fostering intellectual, cultural, and personal growth, preparing graduates for leadership roles in a global society.

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

The School of Architecture and Design at the American International University in Kuwait comprises the disciplines of Architecture, Interior Design, and Graphic Design. The School offers undergraduate programmes designed to prepare students for professional practice through a combination of creative inquiry, technical expertise, and applied learning.

Scope of Work

The Dean of the School of Architecture and Design 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 and management for the School of Architecture and Design, including oversight of full-time and adjunct faculty, academic programs, and administrative operations.
• Oversee all academic programmes within the School of Architecture and Design, including Architecture, Interior Design, and Graphic Design.
• Lead curriculum development, course scheduling, program assessment, and continuous improvement of degree offerings to ensure academic excellence and market relevance.
• Manage the School’s budget, resource allocation, and strategic planning.
• Drive faculty recruitment, mentoring, performance review, and professional development.
• Promote a culture of research and scholarship across the School; support faculty and student research activities.
• Maintain and actively engage the Industry Advisory Committee to ensure academic programs remain aligned with industry needs, emerging trends, and employer expectations. Lead and coordinate accreditation, assessment, and quality assurance activities (institutional and programmatic), including familiarity with American higher education accreditation frameworks and continuous improvement processes.
• Ensure the School’s website and public communications accurately reflect programs, achievements, and student opportunities.
• Foster industry and community partnerships, internships, and experiential learning opportunities for students.
• Represent the School in university leadership meetings and contribute to institution-wide strategic initiatives.
• Promote professional engagement with architecture, design, creative industries, professional bodies, and community stakeholders.
• Support the development of studio-based learning environments, student exhibitions, competitions, portfolios, and professional practice opportunities.

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.
• Professor rank in one of the School’s disciplines.
• Strong record of excellence in teaching, scholarship, creative activity, and/or professional practice appropriate to the rank of Professor.
• Leadership qualities and proven research background in a relevant discipline.
• Clear vision for higher education and School development.
• Familiarity with the credit hour and semester system.
• Senior managerial experience in higher education, preferably at dean level.
• Demonstrated experience leading or supporting accreditation, assessment, quality assurance, and continuous improvement initiatives within architecture, design, or related professional disciplines.
• Knowledge of HR, administrative, and financial practices and procedures.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience working with academic, professional, and industry institutions.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Arabic is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and support creative, design, and professionally oriented academic disciplines.
• Experience in American 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 on August 30, 2026.