University of Plymouth

Our roots go back over 150 years, but it is our contemporary relevance that gives us our energy and direction. Our research is committed to addressing the multidisciplinary challenges of today and tomorrow and informs an educational experience that places emphasis on practical, real-world experiential learning. The University seeks to advance knowledge and transform lives through excellence in teaching and learning and world-class research, sustained international impact, a stimulating student experience, and as a civic university focused on supporting our local community and businesses.

With over 18,000 students, more than 6,000 studying for a Plymouth degree at partner institutions in the UK and around the world, and over 142,000 alumni pursuing their chosen careers globally, the University has a growing global presence. We are a UK top 50 University (THE rankings 2023) with clusters of world-class research across a wide range of disciplines.

The School of Society and Culture (SSC) is home to a diverse collection of researchers working in the social sciences, humanities and performing arts; subjects that play a crucial role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing social issues and that require skilled, creative and forward-thinking individuals capable of shaping the future. The School is dedicated to advancing knowledge for public benefit, driving meaningful change in our society and enriching communities. The most recent REF 2021 exercise demonstrated the strength of our research, with the majority of our outputs rated as internationally significant or world leading. The School is also at the forefront of education innovation, creating new opportunities and pathways for learners, giving greater opportunity for interdisciplinary learning.

The University is now seeking to appoint a Head of School of Society and Culture to provide bold strategic leadership to the School. The role is primarily responsible for formulating and operationalising academic strategy, ensuring appropriate plans and resources are in place for their delivery. The post holder will have the opportunity to devise and deliver an ambitious strategy to develop the School’s teaching, student experience and research output.

The successful candidate will demonstrate outstanding leadership ability with a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges in further developing a thriving School, with a proven track record of leadership and management. Applicants will have academic and personal credibility, as well as a commitment to working collaboratively and in partnership with staff and students across the School and more widely. The Head of School will be a leader in their field who is excited by the opportunity to build on the School’s success to date and lead it forward during a time of change and opportunity. You will bring inspiring leadership and strong management experience and an ability to engage staff, peers and students as you work collaboratively to deliver results.

How to Apply

An executive search exercise is being undertaken by Perrett Laver to assist the Search Committee in the discharge of their duties; both to identify the widest possible field of candidates and to assist in the assessment of candidates against the requirements of the role.

Applications should consist of a covering letter explaining motivation, suitability and qualifications for the position and a full curriculum vitae. Applicants should also provide the names and contact details of two referees.

The closing date for applications is 9:00am (BST) on Monday 17th April 2023.

For a confidential conversation on the role, please contact, Sanjana Kumar at sanjana.kumar@perrettlaver.com or +44 (0)20 3928 7378.

Applications will be considered by the Search Committee in late April. Final interviews are expected take place in early June.    

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