Job Description: Chief Research Officer (SCRR)
Position Title: Chief Research Officer (SCRR)
Department: Research & Development
Location: [Location]
Reports To: Executive Director of Operations
Position Type: Full-Time
Job Overview:
The Chief Research Officer (SCRR) plays a critical role in the development and accreditation of educational courses at SayPro. The SCRR is responsible for overseeing the entire process of course submission for the monthly SayPro Course Review and ensuring that all new courses meet the required quality and academic standards set by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). The SCRR ensures that all educational programs are rigorously evaluated, compliant with QCTO standards, and strategically aligned with SayPro’s mission and goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- SayPro Course Review:
- Oversee the review of all new course submissions within SayPro to ensure alignment with educational standards required by QCTO.
- Ensure courses meet the established criteria for syllabus content, assessments, learning outcomes, and pedagogical strategies.
- Collaborate with academic departments and subject matter experts to ensure course content is up to date, relevant, and comprehensive.
- Provide expert advice on course development, ensuring consistency and adherence to QCTO regulations and best practices.
- Course Development and Quality Assurance:
- Lead the research and development of new course content, working closely with curriculum designers, subject matter experts, and instructional designers.
- Ensure that the curriculum is designed to achieve high levels of student engagement and learning outcomes, including the integration of practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
- Develop and implement quality assurance protocols for evaluating the quality of course content, including periodic reviews and updates of the syllabus.
- QCTO Accreditation Support:
- Manage the accreditation process for all new courses, ensuring they meet QCTO’s regulatory standards and approval requirements.
- Prepare detailed documentation for course submissions, including curriculum, assessment strategies, and any additional supporting materials required by the QCTO.
- Liaise directly with QCTO representatives and support the submission of courses for official accreditation, ensuring all deadlines are met and all necessary documentation is in order.
- Research and Data Analysis:
- Conduct research on emerging trends in education, curriculum design, and accreditation standards to ensure that SayPro’s courses remain relevant, innovative, and aligned with industry needs.
- Collect and analyze data related to course effectiveness, student performance, and feedback to continuously improve the quality and impact of SayPro’s courses.
- Provide periodic reports to senior management regarding the progress and outcomes of course development and accreditation efforts.
- Leadership and Team Collaboration:
- Lead and mentor the course review and development team, providing guidance and support to ensure high standards of academic and operational excellence.
- Collaborate with other departments, such as the academic administration, marketing, and operations teams, to align course offerings with business objectives and market demand.
- Foster a culture of innovation, excellence, and continuous improvement within the course development and accreditation teams.
- Stakeholder Management:
- Maintain strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, curriculum designers, subject matter experts, and QCTO accreditation bodies.
- Serve as the primary point of contact between SayPro and QCTO for course-related queries, ensuring effective communication and alignment between both parties.
- Policy Development and Compliance:
- Ensure that all new courses are developed in compliance with relevant educational laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
- Develop and update internal policies and procedures related to course development, review, and accreditation to ensure continued compliance with QCTO and other regulatory bodies.
- Continuous Professional Development:
- Stay updated on best practices in course design, accreditation processes, and educational research methodologies.
- Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to education and accreditation to enhance professional knowledge and foster networking opportunities.
- Encourage the professional development of team members through training, workshops, and other opportunities.
Required Qualifications:
- Educational Background:
- Master’s degree in Education, Curriculum Development, Educational Leadership, or a related field (Doctorate preferred).
- Experience:
- At least 8 years of experience in educational research, course development, and accreditation processes, with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role.
- Proven track record of successfully submitting courses for QCTO or similar accreditation bodies.
- Experience in managing and leading interdisciplinary teams.
- Skills and Competencies:
- Deep knowledge of QCTO accreditation processes and educational standards in South Africa.
- Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and draw actionable insights.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to prepare and present reports to senior management and stakeholders.
- Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage, mentor, and motivate a diverse team.
- Familiarity with the latest trends in educational technology and instructional design methodologies.
- Exceptional organizational skills, with a focus on meeting deadlines and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Personal Attributes:
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality.
- Collaborative, with the ability to work effectively across different departments and with external stakeholders.
- Innovative thinker, able to bring new ideas to improve course content and development processes.
- Strategic mindset, with a focus on long-term growth and alignment with organizational goals.
Working Conditions:
- Full-time position, with occasional travel required for external meetings and accreditation-related activities.
- Flexible work hours may be necessary to meet deadlines or manage urgent accreditation submissions.
- The role may require occasional evening or weekend work to complete tasks related to course submissions or QCTO communications.
This position offers a unique opportunity for a dedicated and experienced professional to influence the academic standards and course offerings at SayPro while ensuring the highest quality education for students. The Chief Research Officer will be integral in shaping the future of educational programs that meet the needs of both learners and industry standards.
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