Job Description

The Chief Academic Officer (CAO), is responsible for establishing and executing the strategic academic vision across Christel House South Africa. The CAO develops and implements comprehensive academic strategies, oversees curriculum alignment and selection processes, and builds the systems and structures that enable high-quality instruction network-wide. The CAO provides leadership to principals and instructional leaders, creating a shared culture of innovation, mentorship and ethical leadership at CHSA.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Academic Systems Development and Oversight. Foster a culture of excellence and collective efficacy in teaching and learning. Collaborate with the CEO to align instructional strategies with Christel House's holistic educational mission. Ensure the implementation of consistent high quality instructional vision and practices, positive behaviour support systems and strong family engagement frameworks. Lead all aspects of academic programming including curriculum, pedagogy, assessments, and instructional quality assurance. Collaboratively design and implement systems to measure and monitor leaner achievement and learning outcomes. Evaluate and improve organizational structures supporting curriculum and instruction. Analyze performance trends through data (observations, assessments, surveys) to inform strategic interventions across the network. Provide direct supervision and mentorship to school Principals. Plan, Lead and Facilitate professional development programmes for school leaders, instructional staff, and learner support teams. Contribute to orientation and mentoring programs for new teaching staff across the network.

Requirements

Advanced degree (e.g., Master's in Education or Educational Leadership) required. Minimum 5 years of experience in senior educational leadership role or similar roles. Demonstrated expertise in curriculum design, instructional practices, and academic system management. Proven experience in leading academic teams and achieving shared outcomes. Senior management experience with a record of strategic contributions to organizational goals. Strong understanding of educational data, analysis, and continuous improvement processes.

Professional Competencies

Ethical data-driven practices and decision-making Change Management and Talent Management Interpersonal Effectiveness and Teamwork Outcomes driven Strategic Planning & Communication across all occupational levels Innovation and Problem Solving Devotion , Commitment and Values driven Visionary Leadership and sound judgment
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Application Question(s):

Do you have proven experience in leading academic teams in achieving strategic outcomes?
Education:

Masters (Preferred)
Experience:

Educational Leadership: 5 years (Required)
License/Certification:

SACE CERTIFICATION (Required)
Work Location: In person

Application Deadline: 2025/08/05
Expected Start Date: 2026/01/01