Principal Learning Strategist

Note: By applying to this position your application is automatically submitted to the following location: Cape Town, ZA. Overview At 2U, we are all in on purpose. We are motivated by our mission – to eliminate the back row in education – and connected by our shared passion to deliver world‑class digital education at scale. As the parent company of edX, the world’s leading online learning platform, 2U powers more than 4,000 online higher education offerings – from free courses to full degrees – together with more than 1,000 colleges, universities, and corporate partners, helping to unlock human potential. Responsibilities Strategic Leadership in Learning Design: Define and lead the implementation of transformative, scalable learning frameworks that set industry benchmarks for innovation and impact. Drive strategic decisions regarding pedagogy, program structure and emergent technology integration, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and market demands. Serve as the organization’s foremost expert on learner‑centered design, providing thought leadership that informs high‑stakes organizational decisions. Partner with senior leadership to identify and address gaps in learning strategy, driving initiatives that maximize learner outcomes and institutional success. Product Development and Innovation: Spearhead the design of high ROI products and pilot programs with a focus on scalability, market relevance and workforce alignment. Pilot and refine experimental approaches to instructional design and emergent technologies, positioning 2U as a leader in the education technology space. Consult with internal and external partners to shape programmatic solutions that meet the needs of diverse audiences and stakeholders. Data‑Informed Strategy and Insights: Harness advanced analytics and labour‑market intelligence to guide strategic program design and optimise portfolio decisions. Establish frameworks for data‑driven decision‑making across product lines, ensuring that initiatives are grounded in measurable outcomes. Provide critical insights and recommendations to leadership, enabling informed decision‑making on investments, priorities and innovations. Cross‑Functional Collaboration and Influence: Operate as a key strategic advisor across business units, ensuring alignment between organizational priorities and learning design initiatives. Facilitate integration of cutting‑edge pedagogical strategies into cross‑functional workflows, acting as a bridge between innovation and implementation. Lead cross‑functional teams in driving organisational transformation through collaborative, research‑driven initiatives. Organisational Culture and Thought Leadership: Cultivate a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement, driving strategic alignment across teams and stakeholders. Serve as a public‑facing thought‑leader, contributing white papers, research insights, advisory reports and conference presentations to solidify 2U’s reputation as an industry leader. Mentor and coach colleagues across the organization, elevating overall expertise in pedagogy and learning strategy. Qualifications Advanced degree in Adult Education, Educational Technology or related fields or 10+ years of equivalent, high‑level professional experience. Demonstrated mastery in learning design, strategic programme development and pedagogical innovation. Proven ability to lead high‑stakes, cross‑functional initiatives with measurable organisational impact. Strong proficiency in research and analytics, with a track record of data‑driven decision‑making. Expertise in leveraging LMS platforms (e.g. Canvas, edX) and cutting‑edge technologies (e.g. AI, VR). Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with a history of influencing senior leadership. Deep understanding of accessibility and inclusivity principles in learning design. Working Conditions Occasional travel may be required for cross‑functional collaboration or external partnerships. Physical requirements: ability to perform typical office functions, including prolonged periods of working at a computer. Management responsibilities: No direct reports. Benefits & Culture Our global employee base is a diverse collection of innovators, dreamers and doers working together to transform lives through higher education. We believe that every employee can advance our shared purpose, and that life at 2U should be fun and meaningful. We offer comprehensive benefits (unique per country) and excellent work/life balance. Full‑time, South Africa benefits include: 2 complimentary Getsmarter short courses per year Subsidised medical aid with Discovery Health Medical Scheme 4% 2U contribution towards Discovery Life Pension Fund and Group Risk Benefit Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Generous leave policy including time off to volunteer for non‑profit organisations, study leave, sports leave and a company‑wide festive season break #NoBackRow Equal Opportunity & Diversity 2U is an equal‑opportunity employer that does not discriminate against applicants or employees and ensures equal employment opportunity for all persons regardless of race, creed, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship, military or veteran status, or any other classifications protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. 2U’s equal‑opportunity policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, job benefits and pay. 2U is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from South African citizens who are members of designated groups who may contribute to Employment Equity in the workplace and the further diversification of ideas. In this regard, the relevant laws and principles associated with Employment Equity will be considered when appointing potential candidates. We are required by law to verify your ability to work lawfully in South Africa. 2U requires that you submit a copy of either your identity document or your passport and any applicable work permit if you are a foreign national, along with an updated curriculum vitae. #J-18808-Ljbffr