New York University (NYU) is a leading international university with a strong global reputation for academic excellence, research, innovation and societal impact. With campuses and partnerships spanning multiple countries, the University serves a diverse community of students, faculty, alumni and partners, and is committed to delivering education that addresses the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly interconnected world.
NYU has established a significant presence in the United Arab Emirates through its Abu Dhabi campus which plays an important role in advancing the institution’s global strategy and supporting regional priorities in education, workforce development, innovation and economic diversification.
NYU’s Executive Education agenda sits at a pivotal moment of growth and opportunity. Executive Education represents one of its most important strategic growth platforms, enabling NYU to deepen engagement with government, sovereign entities, industry and regional leaders while translating academic excellence into measurable impact, sustainable revenue and long-term partnerships across the UAE, GCC and wider MENA region.
As part of its continued growth and ambition, the University seeks to appoint a Senior Director, Executive Education. Reporting to the Vice Provost of Executive and Professional Education, the Senior Director will lead the University's executive education growth agenda across the region, overseeing business development, strategic industry and government partnerships and the expansion of a high-impact portfolio of executive and professional learning programmes.
Key priorities will include identifying and developing new market opportunities; driving portfolio growth across open-enrolment and customised executive programmes; strengthening client acquisition and retention; building strategic partnerships across public, private and professional sectors; and fostering collaboration across academic and professional services teams to maximise institutional impact and commercial success.
The successful candidate will bring significant senior leadership experience in executive education, professional learning, higher education, corporate learning, leadership development, or a related sector. They will have a proven track record of driving business growth, developing strategic partnerships, generating revenue, and leading high-performing teams.
They will possess strong commercial acumen, excellent stakeholder management skills, and the ability to operate effectively within complex, multicultural environments. Experience in international higher education or executive education, together with knowledge of the UAE, GCC and wider MENA region, will be advantageous.
Academic credibility and/or substantial practitioner experience is desirable, alongside the ability to engage senior executives, government and industry leaders, and translate market needs into high-impact learning solutions.
English is the principal language of instruction. While not essential, proficiency in Arabic would be an advantage in supporting stakeholder engagement across the region.
Above all, the successful candidate will bring the strategic vision, commercial acumen and leadership to expand the University's executive education portfolio, strengthen external partnerships, and drive sustainable growth and impact.
NYU Abu Dhabi is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse community and welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
Applications should consist of a covering letter, full CV detailing academic and professional qualifications, employment history, latest remuneration and relevant achievements.
Closing date for applications is 7 August 2026 at 09:00 GST.
Perrett Laver would be delighted to speak with any interested individuals and welcome all exploratory discussions. If you would like to discuss this opportunity further or have any questions about the role, please contact Ellie Beveridge at Ellie.Beveridge@perrettlaver.com.
Role Reference Number: 8457
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