Dean of College of Media and Mass Communication CMMC)

Position OverviewThe American University in the Emirates (AUE) invites applications from highly qualified and experienced academic leaders for the position of Dean, College of Media and Mass Communication (CMMC). This senior leadership role is critical to advancing the college’s academic mission, strategic growth, research excellence, and industry engagement. The Dean will provide visionary leadership to ensure high-quality teaching and learning, impactful research, and strong partnerships with government entities, international organizations, and media and communication industry leaders.Purpose of the RoleThe Dean is responsible for providing a clear and forward-looking leadership vision for the College of Media and Mass Communication. The role involves close collaboration with faculty, senior university leadership, industry partners, government stakeholders, and the wider community to enhance academic excellence, innovation, and graduate employability.Summary of the RoleThe Dean of the College of Media and Mass Communication is the chief academic and administrative officer of the college. The position carries responsibility for strategic planning, academic quality, faculty development, research advancement, student success, and operational effectiveness. The Dean ensures alignment with AUE’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities while positioning the college as a leader in media, communication, and digital innovation at the regional and international levels.Minimum Qualifications and ExperiencePh.D. or equivalent terminal Studies, Mass Communication, Journalism, Digital Media, Strategic Communication, or a closely related field.Minimum of 5 years of senior academic leadership experience (Associate Dean or higher) at an accredited university.A distinguished record of teaching, research, and scholarly publications in media and communication disciplines.Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, academic program development, and quality assurance.Strong professional networks with media organizations, government entities, and industry partners.Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills.Preferred Qualifications and SkillsExperience with international and regional accreditation processes relevant to media and communication programs.Knowledge of emerging trends in digital media, artificial intelligence in communication, journalism innovation, and media technologies.Proven expertise in budget management, fundraising, grant acquisition, and external partnerships.Ability to foster an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performing academic culture.Experience working in multicultural and international higher education environments.Reporting and SupervisionThe Dean provides leadership and supervision to:Associate Dean(s)Department Chair(s)Program Director(s)College Coordinator(s)Faculty and administrative staff within the collegeThe Dean reports directly to the university’s senior leadership.Key Responsibilities1. Strategic LeadershipProvide visionary and strategic leadership to advance the mission and long-term goals of the College of Media and Mass Communication.Align college initiatives with national, regional, and global trends in media, communication, and digital innovation.2. Academic ExcellenceOversee curriculum development, academic standards, and program quality.Ensure academic programs meet international benchmarks and industry expectations.3. Faculty DevelopmentRecruit, mentor, evaluate, and support faculty in teaching, research, and professional practice.Promote continuous professional development and scholarly productivity.4. Research and InnovationFoster a strong research culture within the college.Encourage interdisciplinary research, industry-based projects, and applied research initiatives.Support faculty and students in securing research funding and publishing in high-impact venues.5. Student SuccessEnhance student engagement, retention, and career readiness.Strengthen internship programs, experiential learning, mentorship, and industry placements.6. Industry, Community, and Government PartnershipsBuild and sustain strategic partnerships with media organizations, creative industries, government agencies, and international institutions.Promote collaborative projects that enhance learning outcomes and societal impact.7. Resource and Financial ManagementOversee budgeting, resource allocation, and financial planning for the college.Identify opportunities for revenue generation, sponsorships, and external funding.8. Policy, Ethics, and AdvocacyContribute to discussions on media policy, ethics, and communication practices at institutional, regional, and national levels.Advocate for innovation, responsible media practices, and academic freedom.9. Diversity, Equity, and InclusionPromote diversity, equity, and inclusion across academic programs, faculty, and student initiatives.Foster a culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment.10. Accreditation and Co