Project Manager, ALU Academics

Company Description

ABOUT ALU

ALU provides higher education for a higher purpose. Our students declare missions, not majors.
They develop the real-world skills to take on the world’s most pressing challenges. And they take ownership of their learning from day one through our peer and student-led approach – because ALU believes in the power and agency of young people to start shaping the future right now.
Together with a world-class faculty and staff, our students are igniting a ripple of positive impact across Africa and the world.

We are dedicated to fostering an open yet secure environment, balancing the safety of students, staff, and visitors with respect for individual rights, and safeguarding responsibilities.

HOW WE WORK

As a high-growth start-up, the ALU Team works in starkly different ways to traditional academic bureaucracies. We approach education from first principles, empower individuals to design, test, and implement creative new ideas, and work closely together to craft transformative learning experiences. We are deeply passionate about our students and excited by the challenge of building something entirely new.

The African Leadership University is committed to ensuring the safety and Well-being of all students under our care. As part of this commitment , we have a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place , which outlines our Zero-tolerance approach to any violation of safeguarding.

Job Description

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Project Manager will play a crucial role in driving key initiatives within ALU Rwanda, ALCHE Mauritius and ALUSB. This role will be responsible for identifying, planning, executing, and monitoring projects that support the strategic objectives of both departments. The Project Manager will work closely with department heads and cross-functional teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. This role will be a key contributor to the successful implementation of strategic priorities and the overall growth of ALU.

The ideal candidate is a proactive, organized project manager who thrives in a dynamic educational environment. They excel at managing complex projects, building strong stakeholder relationships, and driving results. Possessing a strategic mindset and excellent communication skills, they are adaptable, resourceful, and committed to improving processes and contributing to ALU's success.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Identification and Definition:

• Collaborate with ALU Rwanda, ALCHE Mauritius and ALUSB department heads to identify key projects that align with their strategic priorities.
• Conduct needs assessments and feasibility studies to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
• Develop detailed project proposals, including problem statements, proposed solutions, and success metrics.

Project Planning and Execution:

• Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Manage project execution, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams, facilitating communication and collaboration.
• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks and issues.

Project Monitoring and Reporting:

• Track project progress against key milestones and deliverables.
• Develop and maintain project documentation, including status reports, meeting minutes, and risk logs.
• Communicate project updates to stakeholders, including department heads and senior leadership.
• Evaluate project outcomes and identify lessons learned for future projects.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders across ALU Rwanda, ALCHE Mauritius and ALUSB.
• Manage stakeholder expectations, ensuring clear communication and alignment.
• Facilitate effective decision-making and problem-solving.

Ensure the safety and well-being of all young persons and vulnerable adults with whom we deal,  by adhering to ALU’s comprehensive safeguarding policy, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to any violations of safeguarding standards. 

Qualifications

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business Administration, Project Management, Education).
• 3+ years of experience in project management, preferably in an educational or related environment.
• Proven experience in identifying, planning, executing, and monitoring projects.
• Demonstrated success in managing cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Experience with project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall).
• Experience in developing and managing project budgets.
• Experience in risk management and problem-solving.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Functional Skills:

• Project Planning: Ability to develop detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Project Execution: Ability to manage project execution, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget.
• Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate project risks.
• Budget Management: Ability to develop and manage project budgets effectively.
• Data Analysis: Ability to analyze project data and identify trends and insights.
• Reporting: Ability to develop and present clear and concise project reports.

Soft Skills:

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Leadership: Ability to motivate and influence others.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time, and meet deadlines.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work in a dynamic environment.