ALX Data Science and Engineering Learning Experience Lead

ABOUT ALX AFRICA

ALX Africa, a Sand company, is at the forefront of addressing the global tech talent shortage. We provide the tech-fluent leaders of tomorrow with the skills and tools they need to succeed in today's digital world. Through our cutting-edge technology training programs, we empower individuals to build impactful careers in high-growth industries. Our partnership with Sand provides our graduates with access to a global network of career opportunities, ensuring a seamless transition from learning to employment.

ABOUT THE TEAM 

At the heart of our mission to empower and uplift through education, our Learning Team is a dynamic engine driving the future of learning and development. This multidisciplinary team is dedicated to crafting and delivering comprehensive educational experiences that cater to a wide array of needs, from individual learners to corporate partners. 

Our selection process is meticulously designed to identify and nurture potential. Through data-driven methodologies and a keen understanding of diverse talent pools, we're setting new standards in talent identification and development at scale.

We're revolutionizing how talent is prepared for the real world. Our B2C programs are tailored to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in today's fast-paced environment. From foundational learning to advanced technical skills, we're making quality education accessible.

At the core of our learning experience is a robust and forward-thinking curriculum. Developed by experts and refined through continuous feedback, our curriculum is designed to be engaging, relevant, and impactful. With a focus on ethical leadership, practical tech skills, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving, we're preparing learners for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As the Head of Data Science and Engineering Learning Experience, you will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive strategy for our data educational programs. This is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of our data curriculum. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including talent readiness, corporate training, content development, and quality assurance, to ensure our offerings remain cutting-edge and aligned with industry needs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Skills Centre Leadership and Management:

• Develop and articulate a clear strategic vision for the Data Science and Engineering Skills Centre, aligning with the organization’s mission to be at the forefront of technology education in Africa and beyond.
• Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing team of data science, data engineering and machine learning educators and researchers.
• Oversee the efficient allocation and utilization of Skills Centre resources, including managing Skills Centre schedules, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring that all training, research and development interventions are adequately staffed and supported.

Curriculum Development and Quality Assurance:

• Oversee the design, development, and continuous improvement of the data science, analytics, engineering and AI curriculum, ensuring it meets the highest educational standards.
• Collaborate with learning experience teams to integrate the latest advancements in data science, engineering, analytics, and machine learning into our teaching practices.
• Ensure that all training content is practical, relevant, and optimized for both online and blended learning environments.
• Develop key short courses, workshops or bootcamps for corporate clients as per corporate team training needs

Educational Research and Innovation:

• Lead research and development initiatives to explore how analytics, machine learning, and AI can enhance teaching practices and learner outcomes.
• Stay ahead of industry trends to ensure our programs are future-proof and incorporate the latest technological advancements.
• Plan, prioritize and manage key strategic research projects

Operational Excellence:

• Work closely with the registrar and other key stakeholders to maintain and optimize the centralized academic calendar.
• Ensure seamless coordination between the Data Science and Engineering Skills Centre and other departments, including training delivery, program operations, learning experience design, learning platform and data teams.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve Skills Centre operations, enhance efficiency, and scale our programs effectively.
  

  Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration:

  • Act as a key liaison between the Data Science and Engineering Skills Centre and other departments, ensuring alignment with the broader organizational goals.
  • Engage with corporate partners and stakeholders to understand their needs and integrate feedback into program development.
  • Represent the Skills Centre in cross-functional meetings and contribute to the strategic direction of the organization.

  
  

  REQUIREMENTS:

  
  

  Background

  • Advanced degree in Statistics, Engineering, Computer Science or a Data Science related field
  • Background in Education, Instructional Design, Project Management.

  Experience

  • 5+ years of experience leading cross-functional teams and managing projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrable expertise in human centered and customer centered design with clear examples of starting with a client's needs and desires, and then working backward to design the learning activities, modules, content, assessment and projects that deliver on those outcomes.

  Skills

  • Strong project management skills, including setting timelines, milestones, and budgets to ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to convey complex ideas to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Ability to analyze complex problems, make informed decisions, and solve issues effectively.
  • Demonstrated ability to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and leverage technology to optimize workflows and reduce manual tasks.
  • Demonstrated ability to align program development strategies with broader business objectives.
  • Experience using data and analytics to inform decision-making and drive program improvements.

  
  

  Mindsets and Attributes

  • High standards: You know what excellence looks like and strive to deliver consistent quality.
  • Adventurous: You are excited about new challenges and building structure out of uncertainty.
  • Learning mindset: You seek and receive feedback as an opportunity for growth.
  • Critical thinker: You always evaluate if the current approach is the best way of doing things.
  • Humble, service-oriented: You see how seemingly low-level tasks contribute to the organization’s bold mission.