Dean, College of Film

University of the Arts Sharjah is looking for a visionary and experienced Dean, College of Film to oversee the academic performance, administration, and student affairs of the newly opening College of Film. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Film education and leadership, with a passion for fostering the artistic and academic growth of students.The Dean, College of Film, is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic planning, and administration of the College of Film under University of the Arts Sharjah. The Dean will ensure the highest standards of excellence in education, research, and creative activities are achieved within the College. The role involves close collaboration with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders to advance the mission and vision of both the College of Film and the University of the Arts Sharjah as a whole.Duties and ResponsibilitiesAcademic Leadership and Administration:Develop and implement the strategic vision, goals and direction for the Film College within the strategic plan of University of the Arts Sharjah.Oversee the design, development and delivery of the academic programmes, policies, and procedures in Film.Ensure the academic programmes meet the highest standards of excellence and accreditation requirements.Work closely with and collaboratively with the Executive Director of University of the Arts Sharjah and the Dean of Music and the Dean of Theatre as required.Foster a culture of academic rigour, creativity, and innovation within the faculty and student body.Support faculty in their professional development, research, and teaching efforts.Manage the day-to-day operation of the College of Film, including budgeting, resource allocation, and facility management in line with the Academy’s overall budgets, resources and facilities.Promote a culture of conservatoire excellence, inclusivity and collaboration throughout UAS.Lead recruitment efforts for faculty and staff, ensuring a diverse and highly qualified team.Oversee the preparation of reports, proposals, and documentation related to the College’s activities.Student Success:Oversee and enhance student recruitment, retention, and success initiatives.Promote and support student engagement through student organisations, extra-curricular activities, and performances.Ensure a supportive and enriching learning environment for students.Address student concerns and grievances in a timely and effective manner.Curriculum and Academic Affairs:Oversee the development and revision of the Film programmes to maintain quality, rigour and relevance.Ensure compliance with accreditation standards and requirements.Promote interdisciplinary and cross-departmental collaborations.Research and Creative Activities: Work with the Dean of Music and the Dean of Theatre to;Encourage and support faculty and student research and creative projects.Secure funding and resources for research initiatives.Promote the dissemination of research findings and creative works.External Relations and Fundraising: Work with the Dean of Music and the Dean of Theatre to; Build and maintain relationships with alumni, donors, industry partners, and community organisations.Lead fundraising efforts and secure grants to support the College’s initiatives.Represent the Film College at professional conferences, events, and public forums.Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Work with the Dean of Music and the Dean of Theatre to: Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the college.Implement initiatives to promote an inclusive environment for all members of the college and UAS.Knowledge and ExperienceEssential:A doctoral degree (preferably a PhD or DMA) in Film or a related field; a master’s degree with significant professional experience will be considered.A minimum of 10 years of experience in Film education, with at least 5 years in a leadership or administrative role. Such as department chair/lead, associate dean, or similar positions.Demonstrated success in curriculum development, programme accreditation, and academic administration.Comprehensive knowledge of various film disciplines, including performance, film theory, composition, and film education.Experience in strategic planning, budget management, and resource allocation.Ability to oversee curriculum development and ensure academic programmes meet the highest standards.Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and lead a diverse community of faculty, staff and students.Desirable:Involvement in the broader film community, such as participation in professional organisations or festivals.Knowledge of emerging technologies and their application in film education and performance.Experience with online learning platforms and digital tools for film creation and distribution.ContextUniversity of the Arts Sharjah is an independent Academy established by His Highness, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, to address a growing demand in the UAE and MENA region for formal quality education and professional training in the performing arts sector. SPAA is the only performing arts conservatoire in the MENA region, offering quality undergraduate and graduate degree programmes taught in English.In 2026, Sharjah Performing Arts Academy is merging with a new higher education institution – The University of the Arts, Sharjah (UAS). The new HEI will have two Academies, the Academy of Performing Arts (formerly SPAA), and the Academy of Visual Arts (formerly the College of Fine Arts and Design in University of Sharjah).Each academy has distinct colleges and operates on separate campuses. Performing arts colleges comprise Theatre, Music and Film and Visual arts have Fine Arts and Design.The transition will be completed by the end of 2026 and all employees from SPAA will become employees of the new university (University of the Arts Sharjah). The terms and conditions of employment will remain the same for staff employed within the transition period.The purpose-built Academy comprises one 432-seat theatre, two fully equipped studio performance spaces, TV/recording studios, twelve sprung rehearsal studios, twelve singing tutorial spaces, a resource library, gymnasium and cafe.How to ApplyPlease send a maximum of two (2) page cover letter and current CV to careers@spaa.ae. Please place ‘Job Title Year’ in the email subject line.(Applicants should ensure that their cover letter explicitly discusses the required qualifications detailed in this job description for this position)Or can apply online here: https://spaa.ae/jobs/apply/dean-college-of-film-89For any further information, please email: careers@spaa.ae Note: Candidates offered positions at University of the Arts Sharjah are required to undergo a comprehensive background screening and police check prior to finalising their employment.