Manager, Student Accessibility Services

Overview

The Manager of Student Accessibility Services is responsible for overseeing the operations and activities of the Department of Student Accessibility Services, ensuring alignment with the division's mission and goals. This role involves promoting awareness and acceptance of students with special needs within the university community and managing the Special Educational Needs (SEN) team to support these students.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of long-term and short-term strategies to achieve special education objectives in accordance with the department’s strategic plan.
• Design, implement, and manage programs and services that address the needs of students with special needs, including launching new initiatives.
• Maintain current resources and seek opportunities to acquire or integrate additional resources both from within the university and external sources.
• Foster an environment of ongoing professional growth and sharing of best practices among colleagues.
• Provide guidance and assistance to faculty in adapting teaching methods and curricula for students with special educational requirements.
• Ensure that all students, including those with special or additional needs, receive full educational access and entitlement.
• Maintain transparent communication regarding special education matters with parents, faculty, and students, addressing any concerns promptly.
• Conduct continuous SEN assessments, ranging from initial screening to detailed evaluations, to inform the development of individual educational plans (IEPs).
• Organize and promote workshops on accessibility for faculty, staff, and external high schools.
• Develop the annual budget supporting departmental initiatives.
• Oversee all administrative duties related to the department across multiple campuses and generate regular SEN-related reports.
• Keep abreast of disability legislation to ensure university compliance.
• Facilitate communication and conflict resolution among faculty, staff, and students regarding accommodations and access issues.
• Advise the Department Director on matters concerning SEN students.
• Create marketing materials to encourage students with disabilities to self-identify and seek support.
• Coordinate awareness events on SEN for the university community.
• Deliver training programs to equip the university community with skills to support SEN students effectively.
• Promote positive self-image and motivation among SEN students, fostering a proactive and confident outlook.
• Manage allocation of support resources to SEN students as appropriate.
• Conduct research on challenges facing SEN students and develop solutions to enhance the department’s knowledge base.

Working Environment and Relationships

This role operates in a highly dynamic and complex environment requiring exceptional organizational, strategic, and problem-solving skills. The Manager will collaborate extensively with the Department Director, faculty members, external organizations, and other universities to advance the department’s goals. Demonstrated cultural adaptability and experience working with diverse groups are essential.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in School Psychology or Clinical Psychology from an accredited institution.
• At least eight years of relevant experience working with students who have special educational needs, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Possession of a recognized license in school or clinical psychology, specifically covering learning difficulties.
• Willingness to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai as required (position is based in Dubai).

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and self-motivate to deliver ethical, competent, and efficient services.
• Familiarity with the culture of UAE and Arabic society.
• Proficiency with technology tools such as Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Strong understanding of group dynamics and personal counseling methods suited to an educational environment.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with staff and motivate others.