Director, AKU-Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilizations

Introduction

The Aga Khan University (AKU) occupies a unique position in the academic world. With an overall mandate to promote the welfare of the people of developing countries, and with teaching sites in ten countries, the University is an integral part of the Aga Khan Development Network, well-known for its innovative and progressive development programmes. AKU aims to be a world-class university, committed to excellence in teaching, research and service. The Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilizations (AKU-ISMC) is a non-denominational institution that is open to all, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, gender or national origin. Its primary purpose is to study the heritage and cultures of Muslims through the tools of the humanities and social sciences and to understand and address contemporary challenges in Muslim societies. AKU-ISMC is located close to the University of London and other major academic centres in the city. One of world’s foremost cultural, economical, and political centres, London is uniquely well placed to bring together different cultures. The opportunity now exists for a new Director to provide visionary and strategic leadership for the continued growth and development of AKU-ISMC.

Responsibilities

Building on the success that it has already achieved, the Director will promote an environment of academic excellence in research, teaching and scholarship. In particular, the new Director will provide leadership in the fulfillment of the mandate of AKU-ISMC, to foster a pluralistic and inclusive understanding of Muslim civilizations based on a comparative and historical approach.

Requirements

The successful candidate will be an established scholar with some years of experience within a university environment where he/she has developed strong financial and administrative management competence. Advancing the research profile of the Institute and seeking new sources of funding are key parts of the mandate of the Director, but above all, he/she must be a leader who can foster a shared vision among a team of approximately 30 faculty and staff, develop strong local and international relationships, and shape the future of a young institution.

To Apply

The University has engaged an international executive search firm, Odgers Berndtson, for this position. To explore this exciting opportunity further, please contact Elizabeth Abraham, Derrick Chow or Caroline Jellinck in their Vancouver Office at 00+1+(604) 685-0261 or Derrick.Chow@odgersberndtson.ca. To be considered for this position, please submit your resume and related information online at http://www.odgersberndtson.ca/ca/executive-opportunities/