Student Affairs Lead

ABOUT ALU

ALU provides higher education for a higher purpose. Our students declare missions, not majors.
They develop the real-world skills to take on the world’s most pressing challenges. And they take ownership of their learning from day one through our peer and student-led approach – because ALU believes in the power and agency of young people to start shaping the future right now.
Together with a world-class faculty and staff, our students are igniting a ripple of positive impact across Africa and the world.

We are dedicated to fostering an open yet secure environment, balancing the safety of students, staff, and visitors with respect for individual rights, and safeguarding responsibilities.

HOW WE WORK

The ALU Team works in starkly different ways to traditional academic bureaucracies. We approach education from first principles, empower individuals to design, test, and implement creative new ideas, and work closely together to craft transformative learning experiences. We are deeply passionate about our students and excited by the challenge of building something entirely new.

The African Leadership University is committed to ensuring the safety and Well-being of all students under our care. As part of this commitment , we have a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place , which outlines our Zero-tolerance approach to any violation of safeguarding.

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Student Life team is at the heart of our university's vibrant community. We are committed to creating a dynamic and supportive environment that fosters students’ interests within and beyond their mission, an authentic pan-African network, individual student growth, well-being, and opportunities for fun! Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional services and experiences that enrich the lives of our students. We strive to build a strong sense of belonging and empower students to reach their full potential.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Student Affairs Lead is a passionate and experienced leader who will oversee and inspire a team dedicated to creating a vibrant and inclusive student life experience at ALU. This role is about setting the strategic direction for student engagement, fostering a strong sense of community, and empowering students to thrive both personally and professionally. You'll be a champion for student development, ensuring that ALU provides a transformative experience that prepares students to become ethical and entrepreneurial leaders.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Team Management:

• Lead and mentor: Provide guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to team members.
• Delegate tasks and responsibilities effectively: Ensure efficient workflow and optimal utilization of team resources.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment: Encourage innovation, creativity, and a shared commitment to student success.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback: Support the growth and development of team members.

Strategic Planning and Program Development:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive student engagement strategy: Align student life initiatives with ALU's mission and strategic goals.
• Oversee the planning and execution of a diverse range of student activities and events: Ensure high quality and impactful programming that caters to diverse student interests.
• Foster a strong sense of community and belonging: Create opportunities for students to connect, collaborate, and build meaningful relationships.
• Promote student leadership development: Empower students to take ownership of their campus experience and, in the process, develop essential leadership skills.

Student Engagement and Community Building:

• Pan-African Networking:
• Develop and implement strategies to foster a strong pan-African community among students.
• Organize events and initiatives that celebrate the diversity of cultures and perspectives represented at ALU.
• Create platforms for students to connect with alumni and professionals across the continent.
• Beyond the Mission:
• Encourage and support student involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, and initiatives that promote social impact.
• Create opportunities for students to explore their passions and interests beyond their academic pursuits.
• Provide strategic oversight and guidance to leadership for student clubs and societies, ensuring that their activities contribute to ALU and the Student Life Team’s strategy.
• Opportunities for fun:
• Co-create opportunities on and off University managed premises for students to have fun
• Support and promote approved student-led initiatives for fun experiences on campus, in the residences and beyond. 
• Communication and Feedback:
• Develop and implement effective communication strategies to keep students informed and engaged.
• Utilize various communication channels to reach students and gather feedback on programs and services.
• Analyze student feedback to identify areas for improvement and enhance the student experience.

Community Engagement and Customer Service:

• Community Partnerships:
• Revamp the ‘My City, My Campus's concept and implement a strategic action plan to meet its objectives.
• Build and maintain relationships with local community organizations and businesses to create partnerships and opportunities for student integration into the city of Kigali.
• Oversee community service initiatives and promote civic engagement among students.
• Customer Service:
• Ensure that the Student Life team provides excellent customer service to students, addressing their concerns and questions in a timely and professional manner.
• Act as a resource and advocate for students, connecting them with relevant support services and resources within and beyond the university.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students feel valued and supported.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all young persons and vulnerable adults with whom we deal,  by adhering to ALU’s comprehensive safeguarding policy, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to any violations of safeguarding standards.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• Master's degree in Student Affairs, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working in a student affairs or student life role, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing student engagement strategies and programs.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a team of professionals.
• Strong understanding of student development theory and best practices.
• Passion for working with young adults and fostering their personal and professional growth.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Functional Skills:

• Strategic Planning and Leadership: Ability to develop and implement strategic plans, lead and motivate a team, and manage resources effectively.
• Program Development and Evaluation: Expertise in designing, implementing, and evaluating student life programs and services.
• Communication and Marketing: Excellent communication and marketing skills, including the ability to create engaging content and utilize various communication channels.
• Community Building: Proven ability to foster a sense of community and belonging among students.
• Problem-Solving and Conflict Resolution: Skills in addressing student concerns and resolving conflicts effectively.

Soft Skills:

• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to build rapport with students, actively listen, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Enthusiasm and Energy: A positive and enthusiastic attitude with a passion for student engagement.
• Creativity and Innovation: Ability to develop creative and innovative ideas for student events and activities.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with colleagues across departments.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Sensitivity to the diverse cultural backgrounds of ALU students and ability to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.