Vice President for Administration
American International University - Kuwait City
Classification: Executive
Reports to: President
Job Purpose
The Vice President for Administration serves as a senior executive overseeing the University’s administrative operations, systems, and processes. This includes facilities management, maintenance, security, IT, retail operations, procurement, risk management, and general support services. Reporting to the President and working closely with other senior leaders, this role is responsible for the effective management, strategic planning, and operational execution of all administrative functions that support the University's mission and growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a member of the President's executive team, contributing to strategic planning, policy development, and institutional decision-making.
- Provide leadership and oversight for key administrative functions, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and continuous improvement.
- Direct and coordinate the implementation of the campus master plan, including space utilization studies, sustainability initiatives, deferred maintenance, and capital projects.
- Oversee budget development and resource allocation for administrative units, ensuring fiscal responsibility and effective use of resources.
- Manage auxiliary services, including retail operations and campus facilities, ensuring alignment with institutional goals.
- Supervise and evaluate staff within assigned divisions, fostering a culture of accountability, professional growth, and operational excellence.
- Ensure IT infrastructure and technology systems effectively support administrative and academic operations.
- Establish and maintain policies and procedures for administrative services, ensuring compliance with regulatory and institutional standards.
- Develop and oversee risk management strategies to safeguard University assets, personnel, and operations.
- Represent the University in interactions with governmental agencies, industry partners, and professional organizations related to administrative functions.
- Monitor industry trends and best practices in higher education administration, applying insights to enhance University operations.
- Other duties as assigned.
Reporting Departments
- Facilities Management
- Maintenance and Operations
- Security and Campus Safety
- Information Technology (IT)
- Retail Management and Auxiliary Services
- Procurement and Support Services (Mail and Copy Rooms)
- Administrative Support Staff
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Proven leadership experience in administrative operations, preferably in higher education or a similarly complex institutional environment.
- Strong financial and budget management skills, with the ability to allocate resources effectively.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
- Strategic problem-solving abilities and the capacity to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously.
- Familiarity with technology infrastructure and administrative systems in a university setting.
- Understanding of facilities planning, maintenance operations, and campus security protocols.
- Ability to lead, inspire, and supervise diverse teams in a dynamic work environment.
- Strong knowledge of procurement processes, risk management, and compliance requirements.
- Experience with sustainability initiatives and campus development planning is preferred.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required in administration, business, operations management, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- 8+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in higher education administration or a comparable setting.
- Experience managing large-scale capital projects and institutional infrastructure improvements.
- Demonstrated background in implementing technology-driven administrative solutions.
About American International University
American International University (AIU) is a private institution in Kuwait, founded in 2019, offering undergraduate programs based on the American higher education model. AIU provides degree programs in Engineering, Architecture and Design, and Business Administration, with English as the language of instruction. The University is committed to intellectual, cultural, and personal growth for all members of its community.
For more information, visit: www.aiu.edu.kw
How to Apply
To apply, visit the Job Opportunities section on our website and submit your resume and cover letter: https://aiu.edu.kw/careers/jobs
