Dean of College of Media and Mass Communication (CMMC) | American University in the Emirates | Dubai

Job Description

The American University in the Emirates (AUE) invites applications from highly qualified and experienced academic leaders for the position of Dean of the College of Media and Mass Communication (CMMC) . Therefore, this senior leadership role offers an exceptional opportunity to advance the college’s academic mission, strategic growth, research excellence, and industry engagement.

About AUE:
The American University in the Emirates is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Furthermore, AUE is not just a place of learning but a hub of innovation and growth, where expertise and passion can make a significant impact on the world. Notably, AUE believes in nurturing individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of others through their work and contributions.

Position Overview:
The Dean of the College of Media and Mass Communication is the chief academic and administrative officer of the college. Additionally, the position carries responsibility for strategic planning, academic quality, faculty development, research advancement, student success, and operational effectiveness. Furthermore, the Dean ensures alignment with AUE’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities while positioning the college as a leader in media, communication, and digital innovation at the regional and international levels.

Reporting and Supervision:
The Dean provides leadership and supervision to:

• Associate Dean(s)
• Department Chair(s)
• Program Director(s)
• College Coordinator(s)
• Faculty and administrative staff within the college

The Dean reports directly to the university’s senior leadership.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• To begin with, candidates must have a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in Media Studies, Mass Communication, Journalism, Digital Media, Strategic Communication, or a closely related field
• Furthermore, a minimum of 5 years of senior academic leadership experience (Associate Dean or higher) at an accredited university
• Additionally, a distinguished record of teaching, research, and scholarly publications in media and communication disciplines
• Moreover, demonstrated experience in strategic planning, academic program development, and quality assurance
• Furthermore, strong professional networks with media organizations, government entities, and industry partners
• Finally, excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills

Preferred Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience with international and regional accreditation processes relevant to media and communication programs
• Knowledge of emerging trends in digital media, artificial intelligence in communication, journalism innovation, and media technologies
• Proven expertise in budget management, fundraising, grant acquisition, and external partnerships
• Ability to foster an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performing academic culture
• Experience working in multicultural and international higher education environments

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership:

• First and foremost, provide visionary and strategic leadership to advance the mission and long-term goals of the College of Media and Mass Communication
• Additionally, align college initiatives with national, regional, and global trends in media, communication, and digital innovation

2. Academic Excellence:

• Furthermore, oversee curriculum development, academic standards, and program quality
• Moreover, ensure academic programs meet international benchmarks and industry expectations

3. Faculty Development:

• In addition, recruit, mentor, evaluate, and support faculty in teaching, research, and professional practice
• Furthermore, promote continuous professional development and scholarly productivity

4. Research and Innovation:

• Additionally, foster a strong research culture within the college
• Moreover, encourage interdisciplinary research, industry-based projects, and applied research initiatives
• Furthermore, support faculty and students in securing research funding and publishing in high-impact venues

5. Student Success:

• In addition, enhance student engagement, retention, and career readiness
• Furthermore, strengthen internship programs, experiential learning, mentorship, and industry placements

6. Industry, Community, and Government Partnerships:

• Additionally, build and sustain strategic partnerships with media organizations, creative industries, government agencies, and international institutions
• Moreover, promote collaborative projects that enhance learning outcomes and societal impact

7. Resource and Financial Management:

• Furthermore, oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and financial planning for the college
• Additionally, identify opportunities for revenue generation, sponsorships, and external funding

8. Policy, Ethics, and Advocacy:

• Moreover, contribute to discussions on media policy, ethics, and communication practices at institutional, regional, and national levels
• Furthermore, advocate for innovation, responsible media practices, and academic freedom

9. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

• In addition, promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across academic programs, faculty, and student initiatives
• Furthermore, foster a culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment

10. Accreditation and Compliance:

• Additionally, ensure compliance with institutional policies, accreditation requirements, and regulatory standards
• Moreover, lead accreditation reviews and continuous improvement initiatives

11. Advancement and Fundraising:

• Furthermore, support the university’s advancement strategy by cultivating relationships with donors, sponsors, and external partners
• Additionally, secure funding to support academic programs, research, and student initiatives

12. Additional Responsibilities:

• Finally, perform other duties as assigned by the university’s senior leadership

Compensation & Benefits:
AUE offers a competitive compensation package, including:

• Salary and benefits
• Opportunities for professional development
• A supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and personal growth

Location:
Dubai, United Arab Emirates