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Director Academic Innovation Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Director Academic Innovation information

What does a director of academic innovation do?

A Director of Academic Innovation leads efforts to improve and modernize educational programs within an institution. They identify emerging trends, integrate new technologies, and develop strategies to enhance teaching, learning, and student engagement. This role often involves collaborating with faculty, administrators, and external partners to implement creative solutions that support academic excellence and institutional goals. The Director also assesses the impact of innovation initiatives and ensures alignment with the organization’s mission and educational standards.

How does a director of academic innovation typically collaborate with faculty and administrative staff to implement new educational initiatives?

A Director of Academic Innovation works closely with faculty, department heads, and administrative teams to identify opportunities for curricular improvement and to pilot new teaching technologies or instructional models. This collaboration often involves organizing workshops, gathering feedback on proposed changes, and supporting faculty through the adoption process. The director also coordinates with IT and assessment teams to ensure new initiatives are feasible and impactful, fostering a culture of open communication and continuous improvement across the institution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of academic innovation, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Academic Innovation, you need expertise in curriculum development, educational technology, and a background in higher education leadership, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), instructional design tools, and data analytics platforms is typically required. Strong leadership, creative problem-solving, and effective communication skills help drive change and foster collaboration among faculty and stakeholders. These skills are essential for successfully implementing innovative practices that enhance student learning and institutional outcomes.

What is the difference between Director Academic Innovation vs Academic Program Manager?

AspectDirector Academic InnovationAcademic Program Manager
CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Education, Instructional Design, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Education, Administration, or related fields
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in academic settings, focusing on innovation initiativesOperational management of academic programs, overseeing daily activities
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, educational technology companiesEducational institutions, program development offices
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding strategic roles in academic innovationManaging academic programs and initiatives

The Director Academic Innovation typically focuses on leading strategic initiatives to enhance teaching and learning through innovative methods, often requiring advanced degrees and strategic skills. In contrast, the Academic Program Manager handles the day-to-day management of academic programs, ensuring their smooth operation. Both roles are vital in educational settings but differ mainly in scope, responsibilities, and focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Director Academic Innovation jobs in Tennessee?

For Director Academic Innovation jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Director Academic Innovation jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Director Academic Innovation job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Academic Innovation job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution.

Academic Dean, College of Sciences & General Studies

Memphis, TN • On-site


Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 115 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 894 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description


Job Title: Dean, Academic
Department: College of Sciences and General Studies
Entity: Baptist Health Sciences University
Reports to: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Please submit the following materials with your application:
  • Letter of Interest
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Five Professional References

Job Summary:
Provides leadership for the Baptist University College of Sciences & General Studies through effective planning, academic innovation, and resource management. Under the administrative direction of the Provost, the Dean oversees associate, baccalaureate, and (future) master's-level programs across the sciences and general studies curriculum, ensuring alignment with the University's mission and health sciences focus. Responsible for the academic, operational, and personnel management of the college, the Dean fosters excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service, while building partnerships that enhance student learning, workforce readiness, and community engagement.
The person in this position will serve as a Campus Security Authority (CSA). A CSA has significant responsibility for student and campus activities and is designated as an individual to whom students and employees should report criminal offenses. It is the responsibility of the CSA to report to the Security Office all allegations of crimes. Responsible for the department 24 hours/day, 7 days/week and for resolving issues which may occur at any time during the week.
Job Responsibilities:
• Leads college strategy and planning, aligning short- and long-term goals with University initiatives and external workforce needs. Develops and implements college goals; monitors effectiveness; and drives continuous improvement.
• Supports enrollment management and student success, including recruitment, advising, retention, and progression policies. Collaborates with University leadership to promote program growth, market responsiveness, and seamless student pathways from general studies into professional health sciences programs.
• Oversees curriculum development and academic quality, ensuring programs meet student learning outcomes, accreditation standards (SACSCOC and other applicable professional bodies), and industry expectations. Promotes high-impact educational practices including innovation and digital transformation in teaching and learning, interprofessional education, and integration of faith, science, and service. Provides faculty leadership through recruiting, onboarding, mentoring, and evaluating faculty and staff. Supports faculty development in teaching, scholarship, and practice; oversees promotion and advancement processes; and fosters a collaborative, student-centered culture.
• Champions faculty participation in formal course review processes facilitated by the Center for Learning and Innovative Pedagogy to ensure continuous improvement of teaching and learning practices, alignment with institutional standards, and adoption of evidence-based instructional strategies.
• Manages college operations and resources, including academic scheduling, budget planning, capital requests, payroll, and technology needs. Allocates resources effectively to support innovation, equity, and instructional quality.
• Ensures compliance with all external requirements, including regional (SACSCOC), professional accrediting agencies, and regulatory bodies (e.g., Joint Commission, state requirements). Leads program reviews, assessment cycles, and accreditation reporting.
• Expands partnerships and community engagement by cultivating relationships with healthcare providers, educational institutions, and industry partners to support clinical placements, service-learning, and employment pipelines.
• Responsible for the department 24 hours/day, 7 days/week and for resolving issues which may occur at any time during the week.
• Performs related accountabilities as assigned or directed.
Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge/Education
  • Earned doctorate in a discipline related to the sciences, general studies, curriculum and instruction, educational administration/supervision, adult education, or closely related field from an accredited university.
  • Proficiency in applying advanced concepts, principles, and techniques of learning theories, curriculum design, assessment, and educational practices at the associate, baccalaureate, and master's levels.

Experience
  • Five (5) years of full-time college/university teaching experience.
  • Five (5) years of progressive and significant academic leadership (program director, department chair, associate dean, or similar role) with oversight of multi-level programs.
  • Demonstrated ability to supervise, develop, manage, evaluate, and promote faculty, staff, and academic/educational programs.
  • Experience with program and institutional accreditation (e.g., SACSCOC and, as applicable, discipline-specific professional agencies).

Licensure, Registration
  • Current license/certification to practice in the State of Tennessee, as appropriate to the individual's professional discipline.

Desired Qualifications
Knowledge/Education/Experience
  • Eight (8) years of progressive and significant leadership in higher education with a focus on sciences, general studies, or health sciences programs.
  • Experience in curriculum innovation, including interprofessional education, high-impact practices, and technology-enhanced learning.
  • Experience cultivating partnerships with healthcare providers, industry, or community organizations.
  • Record of scholarly activity, grant writing, or securing external funding in support of academic programs.

Licensure, Registration
  • Current license/certification to practice in the State of Tennessee, as appropriate.

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About Baptist Memorial

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Baptist Memorial, based in Memphis, TN, US, is a leading health care organization renowned in the healthcare industry. The company's official website is baptistonline.org which provides a comprehensive view of their services and operations. Baptist Memorial operates a myriad of hospitals, health clinics, and medical facilities providing expert and compassionate care. Founded in 1912, it has a rich legacy of over a hundred years of dedication to its community, offering services which include acute care, diagnostic services, and a broad range of speciality health services fulfilling various patient needs.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US


What Baptist Memorial Health Care employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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