African Leadership Academy serves a uniquely talented and diverse student body. Each year, 125 students are selected from more than 2,500 applicants, representing the potential, ambition, and promise of the African continent. After two years in ALA’s leadership development program, students matriculate to leading institutions of higher education around the world. 

ALA graduates have enrolled at 340 universities across 59 countries. Ninety-five percent enroll in university within 15 months of completing the program, and collectively these cohorts have been awarded more than $270 million in financial assistance. 

Our alumni consistently outperform comparable peer groups. At universities worldwide, ALA graduates rise into campus leadership, earn academic distinctions, and receive prestigious awards. To date, ALA has produced four Rhodes Scholars, three Knight-Hennessy Scholars, and nine Schwarzman Scholars. While many alumni pursue university studies outside the continent, the majority return to work in Africa within the first five years of their careers. 

ALA’s University Guidance program supports this exceptional student population and their families as they plan and pursue successful transitions beyond ALA. In line with our leadership philosophy, students are expected to take ownership of their futures. The program equips students and parents with the information, resources, and individualized coaching needed to pursue tertiary education pathways anywhere in the world. 

The Director of University Guidance leads a four-person team responsible for delivering this program and shaping ALA’s overall university transitions strategy. At a pivotal moment in the Academy’s evolution, the Director will build on nearly 18 years of success to strengthen ALA’s global transitions footprint and further develop best-in-class systems, partnerships, and practices. 

Roles & Responsibilities 

Strategic & Programmatic Leadership 

• Partner with the Dean of the Academy to define and advance a comprehensive transitions strategy aligned with ALA’s mission and long-term goals. 

• Design and deliver a two-year university transitions curriculum for a pan-African cohort pursuing global tertiary opportunities, often with significant financial need. 

• Provide direct counselling and guidance to approximately 20 to 30 Year 2 students. 

• Lead a structured program of engagement with parents as partners in the transitions process. 

• Serve as a core member of the Dean’s leadership team, aligning work across the Academy to achieve shared outcomes. 

Team Leadership and Performance Management 

• Lead, coach, and support a team of three counsellors and one administrative assistant. 

• Plan and manage the departmental budget to ensure effective use of resources. 

• Use data, systems, and disciplined execution to drive strong results and continuous improvement. 

Relationships and External Engagement 

• Build and sustain strategic partnerships with colleges, universities, and scholarship organizations worldwide. 

• Represent the Academy on university campuses and at regional and international conferences and professional forums. 

Competencies and Experience 

• Passionate about the African continent, its people and its future. 

• Passionate about connecting high-potential youth with high-impact opportunities. 

• Proven track record of working with high-achieving low-income students in their transition to university. 

• Maintains an extensive network of professional affiliations in the higher education space. 

• Growth-oriented mindset with a willingness to innovate and adapt. 

• Demonstrated ability to develop students and adults through coaching and mentorship. 

• Strong relationship-building skills at both individual and institutional levels. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience, including at least two years in a leadership or management role.