Director/Academic Lead

About Mafi Fashion Academy and Lab

Mafi Fashion Academy and Lab (MFAL) is recognized as Africa’s foremost center for fashion education, established by the prominent designer Mahlet Afework and situated in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The academy integrates global fashion industry standards with indigenous African knowledge, committed to empowering emerging professionals through specialized courses, expert mentoring, and practical learning experiences within a creative lab setting. MFAL partners internationally to expose students to global trends while fostering locally grounded, sustainable design practices.

Role Overview

The position of Director/Academic Lead entails full-time, on-site responsibility for guiding MFAL's academic vision, shaping curriculum development, and overseeing day-to-day educational operations. Key duties include creating and updating course offerings, maintaining academic quality aligned with international fashion industry and African design perspectives, and mentoring faculty and instructors to deliver impactful education. The role also involves organizing guest lectures, workshops, and hands-on projects in the lab, monitoring student progress and assessments, and formulating policies conducive to an inclusive and innovative learning environment. Additionally, the Director/Academic Lead will engage with industry partners, participate in strategic planning, and represent the academy in academic and professional circles.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership capabilities within fashion education, design institutions, or creative sectors with aptitude for managing academic programs and faculty.
• Expertise in curriculum development, including course design, learning objectives, and assessment methodologies.
• In-depth knowledge of fashion design, textiles, garment production, with awareness of both global trends and African traditional aesthetics.
• Advanced skills in mentoring faculty and students, emphasizing inclusive and learner-focused teaching.
• Strong organizational and project management skills for coordinating academic activities, workshops, events, and collaborations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to liaise with industry stakeholders, guest speakers, and international partners.
• Experience in academic quality assurance, policy creation, and ongoing program enhancement.
• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Fashion Design, Fashion Management, Education, or related fields; substantial professional experience may be considered.
• Willingness and ability to work physically at the Addis Ababa facility and actively contribute to MFAL’s creative and academic culture.
• Knowledge of the African fashion industry or emerging markets and familiarity with ethical, sustainable fashion practices are advantageous.