Dean of Music College

Job description / Role

Job Purpose
Sharjah Performing Arts Academy is seeking a visionary and experienced Dean of Music College to oversee the academic performance, administration and student affairs of the newly opening Music College. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in music education, leadership, and a passion for fostering the artistic and academic growth of students.

The Dean of the Music College is a senior academic administrator responsible for the overall leadership, strategic planning, and administration of the Music College under Sharjah Performing Arts Academy. The Dean will ensure the highest standards of excellence in education, research, and creative activities are achieved within the College. The role involves collaborating with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders to advance the mission and vision of the Music College and of Sharjah Performing Arts Academy as a whole.

Duties and Responsibilities
Academic Leadership and Administration:
• Develop and implements the strategic visions, goals and direction for the Music College within the strategic plan of Sharjah Performing Arts Academy.
• Oversee the design, development and delivery of the academic programmes, policies, and procedures in Music.
• Ensure the academic programmes meet the highest standards of excellence and accreditation requirements.
• Work closely and collaboratively with the Executive Director of Sharjah Performing Arts Academy and the Dean of Performing and Production Arts as required.
• Foster a culture of academic rigor, creativity, and innovation within the faculty and student body.
• Support Faculty in their professional development, research, and teaching efforts.
• Manage the day-to-day operation of the Music College, including budgeting, resource allocation, and facility management in line with the Academy’s overall budgets, resources and facilities.
• Promote a culture of conservatoire excellence, inclusivity and collaboration throughout SPAA.
• Lead recruitment efforts for Faculty and Staff, ensuring a diverse and highly qualified team.
• Oversee the preparation of reports, proposals, and documentation related to the College’s activities.

Student Success:
• Oversee and enhance student recruitment, retention, and success initiatives.
• Promote and support student engagement through student organisations, extracurricular activities, and performances.
• Ensure a supportive and enriching learning environment for students.
• Address student concerns and grievances in a timely and effective manner.

Curriculum and Academic Affairs:
• Oversee the development and revision of the music programmes to maintain quality, rigour and relevance.
• Ensure compliance with accreditation standards and requirements.
• Promote interdisciplinary and cross-departmental collaborations.

Research and Creative Activities:
Work with the Dean of Performing and Production Arts to;
• Encourage and support faculty and student research and creative projects.
• Secure funding and resources for research initiatives.
• Promote the dissemination of research findings and creative works.

External Relations and Fundraising:
Work with the Dean of Performing and Production Arts to;
• Build and maintain relationships with alumni, donors, industry partners, and community organisations.
• Lead fundraising efforts and secure grants to support the College’s initiatives.
• Represent the Music College at professional conferences, events, and public forums.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
Work with the Dean of Performing and Production Arts to:
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the college.
• Implement initiatives to promote an inclusive environment for all members of the college and SPAA.

Knowledge and Experience
Essential:
• A doctoral degree (preferably a PhD or DMA) in music or a related field; a master’s degree with significant professional experience will be considered.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in music education, with at least 5 years in a leadership or administrative role. Such as department chair/lead, associate dean, or similar positions.
• Demonstrated success in curriculum development, programme accreditation, and academic administration.
• Comprehensive knowledge of various music disciplines, including performance, music theory, musicology, composition, and music education.
• Experience in strategic planning, budget management, and resource allocation.
• Ability to oversee curriculum development and ensure academic programmes meet the highest standards.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and lead a diverse community of faculty, staff and students.

Desirable:
• Involvement in the broader music community, such as participation in professional organisations or festivals.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies and their application in music education and performance.
• Experience with online learning platforms and digital tools for music creation and distribution.

About the Company

Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) is dedicated to world-leading education and training in the performing arts. SPAA will see performers and technicians hone their craft while receiving global qualifications, paving the way for a successful future on and off the world stage. SPAA is a centre of excellence – the only dedicated performing arts academy of its kind in the Middle East – where everyone is welcome, from all backgrounds, to realise their potential as the new creative citizens of the world.