Academic Executive Director

Location: Shanghai, China
School Type: International special education organization
Start Date: Flexible
Contract Length: 2 years (renewable)
Schedule: Full-time, standard working calendar (occasional weekends/overtime required)

Job Description

The Essential Learning Group (ELG) is seeking an Academic Executive Director to lead its academic team and oversee strategic planning, curriculum development, and teaching quality standards in the field of special education. This senior leadership role plays a pivotal part in shaping academic programs, driving innovation, and strengthening ELG’s industry influence in China and abroad.

The Academic Executive Director ensures high-quality intervention programs for children with autism, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, and other special needs. This position also supports families, manages academic staff, and represents ELG in professional and community contexts.

Responsibilities

Academic Leadership & Curriculum Development

• Develop and implement long-term academic strategies for special and inclusive education.

• Establish standards for intervention curriculum, assessments, and staff training.

• Lead the design of personalized intervention curricula, teaching aids, and digital tools (e.g., AI-assisted platforms).

• Ensure interventions are evidence-based, safe, and effective.

Teaching Quality & Program Supervision

• Oversee implementation of Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for each child.

• Conduct teaching observations, case reviews, and quality assessments.

• Ensure families receive high-quality IDP reports, meetings, and execution support.

Team Management & Training

• Supervise and develop academic staff, including program leaders and specialists.

• Provide professional coaching and leadership training.

• Establish policies, teaching guidelines, and student-teacher ratio plans.

Family & Community Engagement

• Oversee client intake and consultations.

• Build and maintain strong family relationships through meetings, workshops, and events.

• Provide family support, including referrals and school placement assistance.

Marketing, Outreach & Research

• Collaborate with Marketing & Business Development to enhance ELG’s reputation.

• Present at conferences, summits, and professional development events.

• Establish partnerships with universities, hospitals, and other organizations.

Job Requirements

• Education: Master’s degree or higher in Special Education, Education, Developmental Intervention, Psychology, or related field (PhD preferred).

• Experience: 5–10+ years in special education or related field, with proven team leadership and management experience.

• Languages: Fluent in English (required); Mandarin proficiency preferred.

• Skills: Strong leadership, interpersonal, conflict resolution, and public speaking skills.

• Knowledge: Expertise in special education assessment and intervention; familiarity with China’s special education landscape is an advantage.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary package (based on experience & qualifications).

• Relocation assistance (if applicable).

• Health insurance.

• Professional development opportunities.

• Working visa

About the School

The Essential Learning Group (ELG), based in Shanghai, is a leading provider of special education and developmental support services. ELG serves children with diverse learning needs and their families, offering research-based programs, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a strong community presence.