Provost

Nazarbayev University (NU) is a modern institution that combines international standards with a distinctive Kazakh identity, dedicated to academic excellence and innovation. With a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, NU aims to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. With taught provision covering undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs, NU has world-class academic schools, demanding and exciting programs, and internationally competitive research that furthers disciplines and contributes to Kazakhstan’s and the region’s development. NU boasts world class student experience and enjoys enviable estate and facilities, including outstanding research laboratories.

Professor Waqar Ahmad, previously President of Abu Dhabi University, and prior to that Deputy Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University in the UK, has recently been appointed as the University President, with the remit to build on the University’s achievements and place it firmly among the top 300 institutions globally.  As the institution continues to grow and evolve, it is seeking a visionary leader to take up the role of Provost. The postholder will replace Professor Ilesanmi Adesida, who is retiring after eight years of outstanding achievements in research, teaching and knowledge exchange at NU.

• The Role: the Provost will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of NU. He/she will spearhead the University’s drive to achieve excellence across its education, research, and innovation mandates, ensuring these are recognized in graduate employability and research outcomes. Building on NU’s established position as the leading university in Central Asia, the Provost will establish us as a leader in teaching, education, student experience and research on the global stage. While doing so, NU will remain relevant, nationally and regionally.
• Ideal Candidate:NU is seeking an exceptional chief academic officer with an international outlook and outstanding leadership skills, gained at a senior level within a research-intensive institution. The ideal candidate will have a distinguished record as a researcher, preferably in a STEM-related field and demonstrable experience of developing collaborative partnerships with world leading universities to further research, teaching and knowledge exchange.

This role presents an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to transforming higher education in Kazakhstan and beyond. The new Provost will have the opportunity to influence the next generation of leaders and contribute to groundbreaking research that addresses global challenges.

Nazarbayev University has engaged the services of Odgers Berndtson to assist with the recruitment of its Provost.

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