Chief Academic Officer (CAO) Greater Santa Ana, CA Area

The Company is seeking a Chief Academic Officer (CAO) to serve as the principal leader with a focus on academic infrastructure, systems, and integrated plans for growth and development in all educational areas. The CAO will be responsible for providing leadership in enrollment planning, educational activities, program and course development, and curriculum design to enhance the educational effectiveness for both students and faculty. This role requires a candidate with a strong background in strategic thinking and execution across various education styles, and the ability to support and serve multiple campuses and affiliated locations. The ideal candidate will also be committed to equity leadership, student success, and will operate with a lens of cultural proficiency and sensitivity to ensure the needs of all students are met. Key responsibilities for the CAO include developing and implementing a comprehensive academic strategy that supports growth, student success, and institutional sustainability. The successful candidate will lead institutional and academic planning efforts, identify opportunities for new academic programs, and ensure that academic priorities are aligned with financial planning and strategic objectives. Additionally, the CAO will oversee faculty hiring, development, and retention, and create a supportive environment that fosters continuous improvement and innovation. The role also involves monitoring emerging trends in higher education, ensuring compliance with accreditation standards, and driving organizational effectiveness through continuous improvement initiatives. The CAO will be a key spokesperson for the company on educational issues and will be expected to establish measurable goals and accountability frameworks to evaluate academic performance.

Hiring Company

Westcliff University