Academic Director - Distance Learning – Arden University Salary: £78,065 per annumEmployment type: PermanentHours per week: 37Reporting into: Director of Distance LearningDepartment: Centre for Distance Learning Details This brand new Academic Director position plays a key role in shaping the future of online and distance education at Arden University. Reporting directly to the Director of Distance Learning, you will drive academic excellence, foster faculty engagement, and enhance the overall student experience across our distance learning provision. Responsibilities

Lead and develop academic teams to create a culture of collaboration, excellence, and continuous improvement. Drive student engagement and success through innovative, inclusive, and evidence‑based approaches. Oversee academic quality and standards, ensuring programmes remain rigorous, relevant, and aligned to institutional goals. Strengthen relationships with employers and external partners to enhance Arden’s reputation as a leader in accessible, career‑focused higher education. Champion the effective use of digital tools and learning technologies to enrich teaching and student support.

About You We are looking for an influential and collaborative academic professional who can engage, motivate, and support colleagues to deliver high‑quality outcomes for students. Key attributes include:

Experience building strong relationships based on credibility, communication, and trust. Ability to articulate a clear vision, set shared expectations, and promote excellence in teaching, learning, and student support. Focus on student success with a genuine commitment to enhancing the overall learning experience. Substantial experience implementing strategies that drive student engagement, persistence, and satisfaction. Strengths in planning, collaboration, and delivery of educational initiatives. Commitment to continuous improvement and innovation within a dynamic learning environment.

Benefits

30 days holiday + bank holidays on‑top and a Christmas closure Generous Aviva pension plan – company contributions starting from 7% SimplyHealth plan option Private Medical Insurance Access to Perkbox benefits Study any Arden course for free, with discounts for family and friends Golden Ticket – free Arden education for anyone in your life

Values Stand out, Progressive, Accessible, Resourceful, Kindness – reflect who we are as an institution, a team and as individuals. If these values resonate with you and you are excited by the chance to be the driving, creative force within a growing business, we want to hear from you. Closing Date 3rd November 2025We reserve the right to close this vacancy before the specified closing date should we receive sufficient applications or to respond to business needs. Submit your application as early as possible. Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Arden University is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, which means that if you have a disability, you may be guaranteed an interview if you meet the essential criteria for the role. As an Equal Opportunity Employer we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Our recruitment and selection processes never discriminate based upon people’s age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances, and we actively welcome applications from all groups. #J-18808-Ljbffr