Director – RILED

Director - RILED (Regional Institute for Leadership Development)


Summary

Position: Director – RILED

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 community learning and exchange programmes

 

Key tasks:

  1. Provide strategic leadership and direction for RILED, 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 to run the operation of the institute in collaboration with the University grants management unit and finance office.
  3. Produce, implement and monitor the roll out of RILED’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 RILED’s fundraising and promotion strategy through research projects, conferences and workshops, and other forms of projects to generate RILED income and promote RILED academic programmes.
  5. Strengthen Toloa enrolment through developing unique academic transformative programmes in the Institute to grow the Toloa intake.
  6. Oversee the design, delivery and review of RILED academic programmes, and work with the Office of the Koi’mata Kiki to prepare the required documentations on RILED programmes for accreditation and registration with external accreditation and registration bodies.
  7. Manage the ‘yau bula’[1] of RILED, in particular its personnel, facilities, and budgets in the spirit and ethics of the ‘vakamaraqeti 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 RILED’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  9. Conduct annual assessments and reviews of RILED staff periodic review of its FOL.
  10. Reports to the Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor).

 Qualifications: At least a Masters degree in Development or Environmental Science, or related discipline is required for this position, and at least 15 years experience in development and or environment work and research, and knowledgeable about education management and administration at higher learning institutions. Good knowledge of Pasifika’s theologies and religious landscape, and an understanding Pasifika philosophies and traditions of ethics about ecology and development, 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 – RILED (Regional Institute for Leadership Development)

 JOB DESCRIPTION

Position No[1]

SS14

Position Title

Director – RILED

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[2]

Office of the Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor)

 

Position Description

The Director – RILED 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, with managerial, decision-making and direction setting responsibilities at the centre/institute level.

[1] Creation of Position number corresponding to unique position code/budget

[2] Offices of the Vice Chancellor, Academic Dean, Registrar & Director of Operations. Dean of Research & Strategic Partnership, Dean of Strategic Visioning.

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 RILED, 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 to run the operation of the institute in collaboration with the University grants management unit and finance office.
  • Produce, implement and monitor the roll out of RILED’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 RILED’s fundraising and promotion strategy through research projects, toloa enrolment, conferences and workshops, and other forms of projects to generate RILED income and promote RILED academic programmes.
  • Oversee the design, delivery and review of RILED academic programmes, and work with the Office of the Koi’mata Kiki to prepare the required documentations on RILED programmes for accreditation and registration with external accreditation and registration bodies.
  • Strengthen Toloa enrolment through developing unique academic transformative programmes in the Institute to grow the Toloa intake.
  • Manage the ‘yau bula’[1] of RILED, in particular its personnel, facilities, and budgets in the spirit and ethics of the ‘vakamaraqeti nai yau bula’[2] philosophy, and, hence, contribute to fostering a caring environment for creativity in research and in learning and exchange.
  • Produce and monitor the implementation of RILED’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Conduct annual assessments and reviews of RILED staff and the period reviews of its FOL.

.

3. Operational Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic direction and leadership for academic programmes, promoting excellence in project work, policy influence, research, and community engagement within RILED, and in collaboration with PCU’s three (3) Bilums, and other Centres and Institutes.
  • Lead the strategic planning process for RILED and contribute to PCU’s strategic plan, aligning RILED goals with the PCU vision and mission.
  • Ensure adherence of RILED management and administration to PCU academic policies and procedures, and implementing relevant regulations within the RILED.
  • Oversee the development and review of the RILED 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.
  • Facilitate grant applications, and encourage collaboration within and outside the PCU.
  • Conduct assessment of RILED programme effectiveness and Toloa learning outcomes.
  • Responsible for mentoring, and evaluating the RILED staff, and to foster a supportive environment for staff’s professional development.
  • Address the RILED Toloa concerns, promote Toloa success initiatives, and work 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 RILED staff, and Toloa, and to promote positive, creative, collegial, and inclusive work environment.
  • Prepare RILED for annual graduation.
  • Recommend RILED Toloa for academic awards to the appropriate Heads of Schools.
  • Responsible for the pastoral life of the RILED staff and their families.
  • May represent the Institute and PCU to external stakeholders.
  • Attend to any request by the Office of the Manu Folau (Vice Chancellor).
  • Reports to the Manu Fola (Vice Chancellor).

4. Cross functional support

  • Oversees relations with RILED 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 enhance 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 Institute’s 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 RILED, other Centres and Institutes, and the three (3) Bilums of PCU.
  • Assist with the effective and efficient implementation of PCU’s Information Technology Capacity building plan within RILED, other Centres and Institutes, and with 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 JD officer or lawyer.

Applications to be emailed to appointments@pcu.ac.fj with the subject title: Application for Director RILED Position and copied to info@pcu.ac.fj by 29th August 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.