Director of Preparatory Year Program

Role Overview

Urban Ridge Supplies is hiring a Director to build and lead a new Foundation Year program in Riyadh. The position focuses on creating the entire academic pathway from the ground up and ensuring students are ready for undergraduate study. The program must be aligned with Arizona State University academic standards as well as Saudi regulatory requirements, including the Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC) and the National Commission for Academic Accreditation and Assessment (NCAAA).

Academic and Program Leadership

• Develop the curriculum, policies, assessment methods, and intended learning outcomes for the program.
• Lead the academic direction for English, general education, mathematics, and introductory subject tracks.
• Introduce modern instructional approaches and a student-centered learning model.

Faculty and Team Leadership

• Hire and oversee instructors and academic coordinators.
• Provide coaching, training, and ongoing performance reviews for the team.
• Foster a strong academic environment and shared standards across the program.

Student Achievement

• Set up placement testing and manage student progression through the program.
• Create support mechanisms for learners who need additional help.
• Track attendance, academic performance, and student retention closely.

Operational Management

• Manage scheduling, academic timetables, budget-related coordination, and learning management systems, with Canvas preferred.
• Ensure day-to-day academic operations run efficiently and without disruption.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

• Prepare the program for ETEC and NCAAA accreditation from the beginning.
• Maintain all required records, documentation, reports, and evidence logs.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Work with admissions, academic colleges, and Arizona State University partners.
• Represent the Foundation Year program in internal committees and accreditation-related discussions.

Requirements

• A PhD or EdD in Education, Applied Linguistics, Curriculum and Instruction, or a closely related discipline is preferred.
• Candidates with a strong Master’s degree may also be considered.
• 8 to 10 years of experience in higher education.
• 3 to 5 years of experience in leadership or program management roles.
• Prior experience with Foundation Year or pathway programs is required.
• Experience with U.S.-affiliated or international universities is preferred.
• Experience in a startup university environment is a significant advantage.
• Strong English communication skills are required.
• Arabic language ability is preferred.

Additional Information

The role is based in Riyadh, while the employer location is listed as Doha, Qatar. This is a full-time, onsite position. No salary, stipend, or openings count was specified in the source.