Science Head of Department

**Job Purpose**:
As the Head of Department at ALA, you will lead your department in fulfilling the academy's mission and vision. You will set a strategic direction for your department, collaborate with other heads of department, and lead a team of faculty to design, develop, and continuously improve the curriculum and educational outcomes programming within your discipline. Your role will involve providing leadership and management within your department, ensuring alignment with the academy's educational objectives, and fostering a culture of excellence in teaching and learning.

ALA aims to cultivate a community where faculty members can continuously learn, grow, and develop professionally. As a head of department, you will champion the learning needs of your faculty, supporting their growth and development to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in your department year after year.

As a Head of Department, you will be committed to collaborating with other heads of department and the broader community to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and empowers every individual to reach their full potential. Together, we uphold the values of integrity, excellence, compassion, curiosity, diversity, and humility, fostering an environment where each student feels valued, supported, and inspired to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. As an Instructional Leader, we will look to you to model and champion this ethos in the department and in the community.

As the Head of Department for Science at ALA, you will lead the Science & Technology department in fulfilling ALA's mission to prepare Africa’s future scientists, engineers, and innovators. You will be responsible for setting a vision for Science education, collaborating with other Heads of Department, and leading a team of faculty to design, develop, and continuously improve the Science & Technology curriculum, and outcomes programming at the Academy. As Head, you will provide leadership and management of the science department, assume responsibility for the Department’s outcomes and drive learning opportunities beyond the classroom, including some key science learning programmes hosted by the Academy.

**Key tasks and responsibilities**:
Strategic Leadership
- Set a Vision for Science Education: Define a clear and aspirational vision for arts education that aligns with the mission and values of the Academy, promoting creativity, excellence, and holistic development among students.
- Collaborate Across Departments: Work collaboratively with other Heads of Department to engage in interdisciplinary research, articulate the Academy’s pedagogical approach, and share best practices that enhance teaching and learning across all disciplines.
- Foster a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Cultivate a pedagogy and learning culture within the department that prioritizes continuous improvement, innovation, and reflection, aiming to enhance the quality of learning experiences and outcomes for students.
- Enhance Student Outcomes: Implement strategies and initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes, including academic achievement, engagement, and personal growth, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
- Promote Professional Development: Provide opportunities for professional development and growth for faculty members, supporting their ongoing learning and skill development to enhance teaching effectiveness and promote excellence in education.
- Advocate for Student Success: Advocate for the success and well-being of students, ensuring that their individual needs, aspirations, and talents are recognized, supported, and celebrated within the department and the broader Academy community.

Financial Management
- Work with the Director of Teaching and Learning to develop and manage the departmental budget effectively, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently to support teaching, learning, research, and other departmental activities.
- Estimate expenses for supplies, equipment, and materials needed for departmental activities.
- Monitor spending against approved budgets, ensuring financial accountability and adherence to constraints.
- Review and approve purchase requests, reimbursements, and invoices, ensuring accuracy and compliance with policies.
- Regularly analyze financial reports to identify cost-saving opportunities and inform budget adjustments.

Departmental Management
- Coordinate departmental affairs and ensure progress towards objectives through regular meetings.
- Analyze assessment data and student feedback to identify areas for improvement and adjust teaching practices accordingly.
- Cultivate a culture of innovation and ongoing enhancement within the department.
- Proactively refine systems and processes to optimize departmental effectiveness.
- Offer direction and support to teaching staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
- Conduct perf