Manager Academic Operations

Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION Position Title: Manager - Academic Operations Location: Regional Office, Rajkot Key Responsibilities: Overall: Take charge of planning, monitoring, review, and advancement of the Aga Khan Preschool (AKP) program. Lead and mentor the AKP team to effectively execute the AKESI-prescribed curriculum and teaching methodologies. Spearhead outreach initiatives, fostering collaborations with governmental and allied institutions. Ensure adherence to AKESI policies concerning finance, HR, IT, safety, and child safeguarding. Guarantee the safety and suitability of AKP infrastructure for optimal learning environments. Specific: Visioning and planning: Instill the organization's vision, mission, and values within the AKP team and Regional Office staff. Cultivate a culture of respect and care among AKP and Regional Office teams. Foster an environment conducive to the educational philosophy across all AKPs and the Rajkot office. Elevate the organization's reputation as a premier resource agency in Early Childhood Development (ECD). Academic: Design, develop, and periodically review the ECD curriculum spanning from Toddler to HKG levels. Strategize, implement, and evaluate co-curricular activities across AKPs. Ensure smooth integration of new AKESI initiatives, such as "Read for Children". Conduct comprehensive evaluations of AKP and student performance using agreed-upon metrics and timelines. Procure and mobilize necessary teaching-learning resources as per AKP requirements. Collaborate with Special Educators to address the unique needs of AKP children. Administration: Oversee AKP administration, including coordination of conferences, meetings, training, and external visits. Ensure effective implementation of organizational policies and procedures across AKPs. Liaise with relevant government offices for AKP registration and reporting. Uphold safety, health, and hygiene standards for AKP students, staff, and volunteers. Facilitate the establishment of new AKPs with respect to resources and staffing Staffing and Professional Development: Lead professional development initiatives for AKP field and office staff. Organize effective training for teachers, regional office teams, and helpers engaged in AKPs. Conduct regular performance evaluations and identify training needs. Ensure timely recruitment of competent staff to maintain educational continuity. Guidance and monitoring : Conduct regular visits to AKPs for monitoring and guidance. Mentor AKP teams, Headteachers, teachers, and Local Management Committees (LMCs). Provide ongoing guidance and mentorship to the AKP team. Communication: Drive image-building and marketing initiatives, including social media management and event organization. Review and approve all content. Maintain regular communication with field and AKP teams. Keep Regional Head informed of ground activities and issues. Handle stakeholder communication and budget planning. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with parents, caregivers, LMC and community members to foster strong partnerships and engagement in the AKPs. Represent the organization at community meetings, conferences, and other relevant forums to advocate for early childhood development and share best practices. Facilitate the LMC appointment, Induction, and Training. Guide the AKP team for timely implementation of parent involvement activities such as POP, Parent meetings, involvement in celebrations, RFC etc. Budgeting and Resource Management: Collaborate with the Regional Head and finance team to prepare AKP annual plans and budgets. Monitor and track budget utilization. Exercise control and authorization over all AKP financial transactions. Networking/liaisoning and outreach: Establish linkages with NGOs, educational institutions, government agencies, etc. Organize training for outreach organizations and represent AKESI at various forums. Plan and execute outreach programs, ensuring effectiveness and reporting on outcomes. Study/Report writing: Ensure timely submission of reports, analyses, and feasibility studies to the central office. Prepare various reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual summaries. Conduct feasibility studies as required. Construction/Maintenance and Safety: Ensure safety and suitability of AKP infrastructure. Coordinate with AKESI Facilities team for repairs, maintenance, and beautification. Manage renewal of rent agreements and insurance coverage. Implement AKESI's Safeguarding policy across all AKPs Job RequirementsQualifications and Skills Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human Development / Early childhood/ Education, Child Development, or a related field. Perferred to have understanding of early childhood development theories, practices, and pedagogy. Familiarity with relevant local and national regulations and policies related to ECD. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders and build partnerships. Excellent organizational and time management abilities. Proficiency in data analysis and monitoring program outcomes. Grant writing and fundraising experience are desirable. Experience Proven experience in managing and implementing Education programs, preferably in a leadership role. Minimum 10- 12 years of experience with: 2-3 years of experience in teaching At least 3 years of experience in program management in the NGO Sector. At least 5 years of experience in project management in a reputed NGO