Dean, College of Engineering

The College of Engineering (https://www.ntu.edu.sg/engineering) seeks a global leader in engineering education and research who is committed to leading the way in pioneering research and nurturing engineering talents of tomorrow.

The Dean provides foundational vision, leadership and oversight for the strategic, academic, intellectual and administrative affairs of the College. He/she reports to the Deputy President and Provost. The direct reports of the Dean include the School Chairs who head the respective engineering schools, as well as Associate Deans and Assistant Deans focusing on key functions ranging from research to academic programmes, continuing education, innovation and entrepreneurship, student affairs to faculty recruitment and development.

The ideal candidate for the Dean position will have exceptional ability to proactively recruit, inspire, and motivate interdisciplinary teams to work within a complex academic and research structure through visionary, consensual and yet determined leadership. He/she will be highly skilled at building partnerships, fostering collaboration, and networking within the academic community and with external stakeholders such as industry leaders, government agencies, and professional organisations. The collaborative efforts will include interdisciplinary research and education, industrial projects, technology transfer, commercialisation activities and continuing education. For more details, please refer to the attached position specifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Responsible for the recruitment, appointment, promotion, and professional development of faculty and staff members within the College of Engineering. Foster an environment conducive to teaching, research, and service excellence, supporting faculty members in their career growth and ensuring a diverse and inclusive faculty.
• Promote and support research and innovation initiatives within the College of Engineering. Encourage faculty members to engage in cutting-edge research, collaborate with industry and other academic institutions, and secure research funding.
• Oversee the development and enhancement of engineering curricula, ensuring they are aligned with the latest industry trends, technological advancements, and educational best practices. The appointee will work closely with faculty to evaluate and update undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing education programmes to meet the needs of students and employers.
• Foster collaborations and partnerships between the College of Engineering and industry stakeholders. Work to establish and maintain strong relationships with local and international industries, government agencies, and professional organisations. These partnerships can lead to research collaborations, internship opportunities, and industry-sponsored projects that enhance the students' learning experience.
• Ensure that students within the College of Engineering receive the necessary support for their academic and personal growth. Oversee student recruitment and admission processes, facilitate access to academic advising, mentoring, and counselling services, and promote initiatives that enhance student success, such as co-op programs, research opportunities, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
• Manage the resources, including budget allocation and infrastructure development, within the College of Engineering. Collaborate with university administration and other stakeholders to secure funding, optimize resource utilisation, and support the growth and development of the college.
• Align the college's interests and priorities with the university's and contribute to national and international discussions on engineering education and research.

Requirements

• A recognised higher degree in Engineering or related field. The appointee should have a strong academic background that demonstrates expertise and scholarly contributions in a relevant engineering disciplines.
• Previous experience in academic leadership and administration is highly valued. This can include serving in roles such as Dean, Department Chair, Associate Dean, or similar positions that involve managing academic programs, budgets, and personnel.
• A distinguished record of teaching and research is important. The appointee should have a proven track record of excellence in teaching engineering courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Additionally, a strong research portfolio with significant contributions to the field of engineering.
• Exceptional ability to proactively recruit, inspire, and motivate interdisciplinary teams to work within a complex academic and research structure through visionary, consensual and yet determined leadership.
• Cultural intelligence and sensitivity to adapt to the international and heterogeneous communities on the NTU campus. Can work well within the Singaporean and Asian context.
• Highly skilled at building partnerships, fostering collaboration, and networking within the academic community and with external stakeholders such as industry leaders, government agencies, and professional organisations. The collaborative efforts may include inter-disciplinary research and education, industrial projects, technology transfer, commercialization activities and continuing education.
• Strong organisational skills, financial acumen and management ability, and intellectual rigour required to lead and advance the Flagship College of the University.
• Knowledge of higher education policies, accreditation standards, and emerging trends in engineering education is important. The appointee should stay informed about developments in the field and have a vision for shaping the future of engineering education and research.

The appointed global search firm, Perrett Laver (PL), will assist the Search Committee in the search process. All enquiries should be addressed to the Search Committee Chair at ntudeanengineering@perrettlaver.com

Applications should include a full CV, publication list, and a cover letter describing experience in teaching and leadership, interest in research and vision for the development of the college.

Hiring Institution: NTU