Director of Academic Excellence

Job Title: Director of Academic Excellence

We are seeking a highly accomplished educational leader to drive the strategic direction, quality assurance, and operational management of our International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

The successful candidate will ensure the programme is delivered in accordance with the IB's philosophy, standards, and practices, supporting student achievement, staff development, and curriculum innovation.

Main Responsibilities:

• Provide visionary leadership for the IBDP, aligning it with the school's mission and goals.
• Develop and implement comprehensive plans for the growth, improvement, and innovation of the IBDP.
• Promote the IB ethos and values throughout the school community.
• Collaborate with school leadership on whole-school planning and cross-programme alignment.

Authorisation and Evaluation:

• Lead and manage the school's IB Diploma Programme authorisation and re-authorisation processes, ensuring full compliance with IB standards and practices.
• Coordinate the preparation of required documentation, evidence, and reports for the IB authorisation/evaluation visits.
• Act as the primary point of contact with the IB during authorisation, evaluation, and ongoing programme development.
• Facilitate training and readiness of staff, ensuring the school community is well-prepared for the authorisation/evaluation process.
• Implement and monitor action plans based on feedback from IB authorisation or evaluation reports.

Programme Oversight and Compliance:

• Ensure full compliance with IBO regulations, standards, and practices.
• Oversee the authorisation and re-authorisation processes in coordination with the IB and school leadership.
• Lead and manage the IB evaluation process, including preparation, implementation of recommendations, and ongoing monitoring.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of IB developments and communicate key updates to staff.

Curriculum and Academic Quality:

• Oversee the development and delivery of a rigorous and balanced IBDP curriculum, ensuring alignment with IB subject guides and standards.
• Monitor curriculum planning, assessment practices, and internal standardisation across all subjects.
• Ensure effective implementation of the IB Core (Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, CAS).
• Support differentiation and academic interventions for diverse learners.

Staff Development and Performance:

• Provide leadership, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for IBDP staff.
• Ensure all teaching staff have appropriate IB training and certifications.
• Conduct performance reviews and support instructional excellence.
• Foster a collaborative professional learning community.

Student Support and Achievement:

• Monitor student progress, engagement, and well-being throughout the programme.
• Oversee academic advising and subject selection processes for IBDP students.
• Support students through challenges related to the academic rigour of the programme.

Communication and Community Engagement:

• Act as the primary point of contact for all matters related to the IBDP.
• Communicate effectively with students, parents, and staff about programme expectations, policies, and progress.
• Organise orientation sessions, information evenings, and promotional events for the IBDP.
• Buid a positive reputation for the IBDP internally and externally.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Education or subject-related field (Master's preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in IB education, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience with IBDP curriculum and assessment. Completion of IB-recognised leadership training and Category 1–3 workshops.
• Experience managing IB authorisation or re-authorisation processes.
• Strong background in data-driven academic leadership and quality assurance.
• Familiarity with digital platforms such as ManageBac, IBIS, and MyIB.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking with strong organisational and leadership capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Deep understanding of IB philosophy and global-minded education.
• Ability to lead change, inspire teams, and support academic excellence.
• High levels of cultural competence and international-mindedness.

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