Director - CGSJ (Centre for Gender and Social Justice)

 

Summary

Position: Director – CGSJ

Position category: Associate Professor/Director

Duration: A term of 4-years, renewable for only 1 term

Strategic goal: Advance PCU’s ‘Whole of Life’ vision and communities-based education, and its unique education focus on Christian and interfaith theology, spirituality and Pasifika philosophies and traditions of ethics through its academic programmes; development and research projects; policy influencing and advocacy activities; and through its communities learning and exchange programmes

 

Key tasks:

  1. Provide strategic leadership and direction for CGSJ, including a vision for the school, and a set of strategies on how to advance PCU’s ‘whole of life’ vision of education through the Centre’s curricula, projects, policy influence, research and community learning activities.
  2. Fundraise for funds for the Centre’s operation and sustainability. The Centre is 100% self-funded.
  3. Produce, implement and monitor the roll out of CGSJ’s internal strategic plan in relation to the wider vision, goals and strategies of PCU, focusing on sustainability, including a five (5) years progressive income and expenditure budget, to assist with the PCU strategic plan.
  4. Produce, implement and monitor the roll out of CGSJ’s fundraising and promotion strategy through research projects, toloa enrolment, conferences and workshops, and other forms of projects to generate CGSJ income and promote CGSJ academic programmes.
  5. Oversee the design, delivery and review of CGSJ academic programmes, and work with the Office of the Koi’mata Kiki to prepare the required documentations on CGSJ programmes for accreditation and registration with external accreditation and registration bodies.
  6. Manage the grow of the Toloa intake in the Centre and develop unique academic programmes to attract Toloa.
  7. Manage the ‘yau bula’ of CGSJ, in particular its personnel, facilities, and budgets in the spirit and ethics of the ‘vakamareqeti nai yau bula’[2] philosophy, and, hence, contribute to fostering a caring environment for creativity in research and in learning and exchange.
  8. Produce and monitor the implementation of CGSJ’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  9. Conduct annual assessments and reviews of CGSJ and staff.
  10. Reports to the Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor).

 

Qualifications: At least a Masters degree in Development and or Gender Studies is required for this position, and at least 15 years experience in development and or in gender work and research, and knowledgeable about education management and administration at higher learning institutions. Good knowledge of Pasifika’s theologies and religious as well as development landscape, and an understanding Pasifika philosophies and traditions of ethics on development, justice and gender, are desirable.

Skills required: leadership; policy influence; research and analysis; management and administration; communications; conflict resolution; strategic planning; grant writing; and networking.

Salary: $63,261.06 Fiji dollars

Probationary period – a one (1) year probationary period until the candidate completes the communities cultural immersions, the Pasifika Philosophies course, and leadership training. A review process will take place before 12 months is over to determine the confirmation of position.


Details

Director – CGSJ (Centre for Gender and Social Justice)

 JOB DESCRIPTION

Position No

SS18

Position Title

Director – CGSJ

Position Holder

 

Position Category

Associate Professor/Director

Immediate Supervisor

Rev. Professor Dr. Upolu Luma Vaai

Position Title of Immediate Supervisor

Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor)

Position Salary Band

Band 7 S1

Executive/School/Institute/Centre/Department

Centre

Executive Division

Office of the Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor)

Position Description

The Director – CGSJ is responsible for overseeing the management and administration of the Centre, its programmes and activities, and its staff. It is an Associate Professorial/Director position, managerial, decision-making powers and direction setting responsibilities at the centre/institute level

1. Strategic goal

Advance PCU’s ‘Whole of Life’ vision and community-based education, and its unique education focus on Christian theology, spirituality and Pasifika philosophies and traditions of ethics through its academic programmes; development and research projects; policy influencing and advocacy activities; and through its community learning and exchange programmes

2. Strategic responsibilities

The strategic responsibilities and deliverables are as follows

  • Provide strategic leadership and direction for CGSJ, including a vision for the school, and a set of strategies on how to advance PCU’s ‘whole of life’ vision of education through the Centre’s curricula, projects, policy influence, research and community exchange activities.
  • Fundraise for funds for the Centre’s operation and sustainability. The Centre is 100% self-funded.
  • Produce, implement and monitor the roll out of CGSJ’s internal strategic plan in relation to the wider vision, goals and strategies of PCU, focusing on sustainability, including a five (5) years progressive income and expenditure budget, to assist with the PCU strategic plan.
  • Produce, implement and monitor the roll out of CGSJ’s fundraising and promotion strategy through research projects, toloa enrolment, conferences and workshops, and other forms of projects to generate CGSJ income and promote CGSJ academic programmes.
  • Oversee the design, delivery and review of CGSJ academic programmes, and work with the Office of the Koi’mata Kiki to prepare the required documentations on CGSJ programmes for accreditation and registration with external accreditation and registration bodies.
  • Manage the grow of the Toloa intake in the Centre and develop unique academic programmes in the Centre to attract Toloa.
  • Manage the ‘yau bula’ of CGSJ, in particular its personnel, facilities, and budgets in the spirit and ethics of the ‘vakamareqeti nai yau bula’ philosophy, and, hence, contribute to fostering a caring environment for creativity in research and in learning and exchange.
  • Produce and monitor the implementation of CGSJ’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Conduct annual assessments and reviews of CGSJ staff and period reviews of its FOL.
  • Reports to the Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor).

3. Operational Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic direction and leadership for academic programmes, promoting excellence in project work, research, and community engagement within CGSJ, and in collaboration with PCU’s three (3) Bilums, and other Centres and Institutes.
  • Lead the strategic planning process for CGSJ and contribute to PCU’s strategic plan, aligning CGSJ goals with the PCU vision and mission.
  • Ensure adherence of CGSJ to PCU academic policies and procedures, and implementing relevant regulations within the CGSJ.
  • Facilitate grant applications, and encourage collaboration within and outside the PCU.
  • Oversee the development and review of the CGSJ curricula, ensuring its programmes meet educational and accreditation standards, and responsive to PCU members and Pasifika communities’ needs, in collaboration with the other centres and institutions, and the Bilums.
  • Conduct assessment of CGSJ programme effectiveness and Toloa learning outcomes.
  • Responsible for mentoring, and evaluating the CGSJ staff, and to foster a supportive environment for staff’s professional development.
  • Address the CGSJ Toloa concerns, promote Toloa success initiatives, and works to enhance the overall Toloa learning experience at the PCU.
  • Provide supervision as part of the research phase of the workload policy.
  • Resolve or mediate conflicts among CGSJ staff, and Toloa, and to promote positive, creative, collegial, and inclusive work environment.
  • Prepare CGSJ for annual graduation.
  • Recommend CGSJ Toloa for academic awards to the appropriate Heads of Schools.
  • Responsible for the pastoral life of the CGSJ staff and their families.
  • May represent the Centre and PCU to external stakeholders.
  • Perform any work required by the Manu Fola (Vice Chancellor).
  • Reports to the Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor).

4. Cross functional support

  • Oversees relations with CGSJ alumni including development and maintenance of the alumni database, communications programs, and special events.
  • Supervises and assists the admissions functions, including Toloa enrolment.
  • Internal marketing, external outreach, website development and maintenance, information dissemination, and applicant testing and interviewing.
  • Assist in implementing PCU’s research and publication framework.
  • Collaborate with the PCU Librarian, Manager of the Centre for Flexible Learning, and with the Manbruks of Institutes and Centres to advance PCU academic offerings.
  • Collaborate with the Office of the Fa’atere and Heads of Schools to implement initiatives that enhance Toloa learning experiences and associated policies, systems, procedures and processes;
  • Collaborate with the Office of the Manu Folau in implementing activities that enhances the PCU profile and unique academic programmes and education focuses.
  • Collaborate with the Executives, and heads of Schools to embed the PCU model of Communities based learning in the centres’ teaching and learning, research and publications, projects design, and policy influencing activities.
  • Participate in the effective and efficient implementation of PCU’s Risk Mitigation Portfolio within CGSJ and among the other Bilums.
  • Assist with the effective and efficient implementation of PCU’s Information Technology Capacity building plan within CGSJ and among the Bilums.

5. Attributes

  • Academic Leadership: A strong background in academia, often with a terminal degree, and a proven track record in research, teaching, and service.
  • Visionary Thinking: Ability to articulate and implement a strategic vision that aligns with the university’s goals while fostering innovation and academic excellence.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to build relationships and communicate effectively with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.
  • Collaborative Mindset: Encouragement of teamwork and collaboration within the school and across the university, fostering a sense of community.
  • Financial Acumen: Skills in budgeting and resource management to effectively allocate funds and support the school’s programs and initiatives.
  • Mentorship and Development: Commitment to supporting faculty and staff professional development through mentoring, training, and opportunities for growth.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Strong commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the school, ensuring an equitable environment for all.
  • Crisis Management: Ability to navigate challenges and crises effectively, maintaining composure and providing clear guidance.
  • Innovative Approach: Openness to new ideas and teaching methods, fostering a culture of innovation in research and pedagogy.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Skills in engaging with alumni, industry partners, and community organizations to enhance the school’s reputation and support its initiatives.
  • Commitment to Student Success: Focus on creating an environment that supports student learning, engagement, and success, ensuring that students’ needs are prioritized.
  • Adaptability: Ability to respond to changing academic landscapes, including shifts in enrolment, technology, and societal needs.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following:

  • Curriculum vitae with at least two credible referees with their contacts details who will be contacted by the Appointments committee.
  • Cover letter.
  • Copies of all academic certificates certified by a JP officer or lawyer.

Applications to be emailed to appointments@pcu.ac.fj with the subject title: Application for Director CGSJ Position and copied to info@pcu.ac.fj by 31st October 2025. Alternatively, send via postal mail to the address: The Registrar, Pasifika Communities University, Private Mail Bag, Suva, Fiji Islands.

 

The Pasifika Communities University (PCU) is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds.