Vice Chancellor at Adventist University of Africa

Position Summary

The Board of Trustees and University Council of AUA invite applications for the position of Vice-Chancellor, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Spiritual Officer, and academic leader of the University. As the academic and administrative head of AUA, the Vice-Chancellor reports to the University Council and is responsible for overall strategic leadership, operational management, and academic excellence of the institution.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide Visionary Leadership: Drive the strategic direction and development of the University in line with its mission and values, overseeing policy, planning, and institutional growth. Ensure that academic programs and administrative operations are aligned with AUA’s faith-based mission and long-term goals and are responsive to the needs of its sponsoring divisions (East-Central Africa Division, South Africa Indian Ocean Division, West Central Africa Division).
• Provide Spiritual Leadership: Establish and promote the integration of biblical principles and values throughout institutional culture and academic programs, and chair the spiritual life committee of the University.
• Oversee Academic Excellence: Through the chief academic officer, ensure high standards in teaching, research, and student learning in a multicultural context. Guide academic policy and curriculum development, and foster an environment of scholarly excellence and innovation.
• Mobilise Resources: Secure and manage resources for sustainable growth. Spearhead fundraising initiatives, cultivate partnerships, and obtain support from the church, government, and private sectors to advance AUA’s educational mandate. Maintain prudent financial management and resource allocation in accordance with university and church policies.
• Represent the University: Act as the official representative and spokesperson of AUA to the Seventh-day Adventist Church, government authorities, educational bodies, donors, and other stakeholders. Strengthen the University’s profile and relationships through advocacy, networking, and collaboration. Safeguard AUA’s interests by ensuring compliance with relevant educational regulations and alignment with the ethos of the Adventist Church.

Essential Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Academic Credentials: An earned doctoral degree (PhD or other academic doctorate) from a recognised institution, and credentials at the rank of full professor. A minimum of five years of successful experience in senior academic and administrative leadership roles (e.g. Dean, Deputy Vice-Chancellor or equivalent) is required.
• Proven Leadership: A distinguished record of effective, visionary leadership and management in higher education. Demonstrated ability to inspire and mentor teams, promote academic excellence, foster cross-cultural collaboration, and drive strategic initiatives to fruition.
• Alignment with Adventist Values: Deep understanding of the Seventh-day Adventist philosophy of education and a strong personal commitment to biblical principles and values. The candidate’s life and work should reflect the beliefs and educational ideals of the Adventist Church.
• Integrity and Governance: Unimpeachable integrity, ethics, and accountability in all professional duties. A proven commitment to good governance, transparency, and stewardship in leadership roles. The Vice-Chancellor must exemplify the highest standards of ethical conduct and decision-making.
• The Vice-Chancellor is appointed by and accountable to the University Council. Only candidates who faithfully uphold the ethos and standards of Adventist education will be considered.

Digital Submission: Interested candidates should submit applications electronically via email to khawlhringd@gc.adventist.org (with the subject line “Vice-Chancellor Application – [Your Name]”). Hard copy applications will not be accepted. The application must include the following:

• Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae: A cover letter expressing your interest and a current, detailed CV.
• Vision Statement: A document (maximum 4,000 words) outlining your strategic vision for AUA as a faith-based postgraduate institution.
• Credentials: Copies of relevant academic and professional certificates/credentials.
• Reference Letters: Three confidential reference letters from professionals who can attest to your competence, character, and commitment (e.g., two from senior academic administrators and one from a church leader). Referees should email their letters directly to the address above, with the subject “Confidential Reference – [Candidate’s Name], Vice-Chancellor AUA.”