Job Details

California Miramar University (CalMU) is a dynamic institution dedicated to providing innovative and high-quality education. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive academic environment that empowers students to excel. CalMU is expanding its academic offerings and digital transformation initiatives, with a strong emphasis on quality, compliance, and student success.

Position Summary

The Director of Academic Affairs and Innovation will serve as a hands-on academic leader who drives academic excellence, program innovation, and faculty development across all CalMU locations. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role will personally lead academic improvement initiatives, develop and launch new programs, and enhance student and faculty performance through data-driven decision-making and innovative teaching approaches.

This is a role for a builder and doer — someone who can diagnose academic gaps, design solutions, and personally execute key initiatives to elevate the academic experience.

Job Responsibilities:

• Evaluate, redesign, and improve curriculum across existing programs to align with workforce and accreditation standards.
• Develop and manage the creation of new academic programs.
• Personally lead the design and rollout of academic systems, policies, and faculty evaluation frameworks.
• Develop and execute faculty hiring, onboarding, and review processes, ensuring continuous improvement and accountability.
• Drive innovation in academic technology, incorporating AI and digital tools to enhance learning outcomes.
• Measure and improve student engagement, academic performance, and retention.
• Collaborate closely with the Dean and Registrar to ensure operational alignment and compliance.
• Prepare the university for ongoing accreditation and reaccreditation processes.
• Partner with senior leadership on data-driven strategies that link academic quality to institutional growth.

First 6-months objectives:

• Within 3 months: Deliver an initial Academic Assessment Report identifying key gaps, risks, and priorities.
• Within 6 months: Develop an Academic Improvement Plan with clear timelines, measurable goals, and implementation strategies for new programs, faculty development, and student success.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree or higher in IT, Business, Education, or a related field.
• At least 8–10 years of progressive higher education leadership experience (Dean, Provost, or CAO level preferred).
• Proven track record in launching new programs or degrees and improving academic quality.
• Experience with national or regional accreditation.
• Demonstrated success in applying educational technology and data analytics to academic improvement.
• Strong understanding of employer-driven curriculum and workforce needs.
• Familiarity with LMS and SIS systems.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Must be based in San Diego and available for full-time, in-person work

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a for-profit or entrepreneurial higher education environment.
• Advanced degree (Doctorate) in a related field preferred.

Salary Range: $110,000 – $140,000 annually

Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision Insurance; Paid Holidays, Paid Sick Days, Paid Time Off.