Director/Academic Lead

About the role

The Director/Academic Lead will steer the academic vision of Mafi Fashion Academy and Lab (MFAL) in Addis Ababa, overseeing curriculum development and daily educational operations. This full‑time, on‑site position reports to senior management and works closely with industry partners to align programmes with global fashion standards and African design heritage.

Key responsibilities

• Design, update and maintain course offerings, learning outcomes and assessment frameworks.
• Ensure academic quality and compliance with both international fashion industry standards and local cultural perspectives.
• Supervise, mentor and support faculty members, facilitating effective teaching and professional development.
• Coordinate guest lectures, workshops, lab‑based projects and industry collaborations.
• Monitor student progress, manage assessment processes and implement inclusive learning policies.
• Contribute to strategic planning, represent MFAL in academic and professional networks, and develop partnerships with global fashion entities.

Required profile

• Proven leadership experience in fashion education, design schools or creative institutions.
• Strong background in curriculum design, academic management and quality assurance.
• Extensive knowledge of fashion design, textiles, garment construction and both global and African aesthetics.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor faculty and foster learner‑centered teaching practices.
• Excellent organisational, project‑management and communication skills.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Fashion Design, Fashion Management, Education or a related field; equivalent professional experience acceptable.
• Willingness to work on‑site in Addis Ababa and actively engage with MFAL’s creative community.
• Experience in the African fashion ecosystem or sustainable/ethical fashion practices is a plus.

Required skills

• Curriculum development
• Academic program management
• Fashion design and textile knowledge
• Project coordination
• Stakeholder communication