Head of School of Humanities

A founding member of the prestigious Russell Group, the University of Southampton has a global reputation for its passion and ability to work collaboratively in delivering world-class education, research, and innovation that makes a real impact on society’s biggest challenges.

Our interdisciplinary thinking, inventive education, and cutting-edge, world-class facilities enable us to forge connections with national and international industries and organisations, develop new businesses, and support the next generation of leaders and thinkers.

The School of Humanities with a world-class reputation for research, and with the majority of departments ranked in the top 10 in their fields in REF 2021, is looking for a Head of School to drive our strategy and develop a forward-facing and impactful vision that is aligned with the University’s and Faculty’s strategic priorities, objectives, and values.

This is an exciting opportunity to take a leading role and be part of the senior leadership team in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities as the Head of the School Humanities which comprises eight departments: the Academic Centre for International Students, Archaeology, English, Film Studies, History, Languages, Cultures and Linguistics, Music and Philosophy.

As the Head you will be responsible for human, physical resources and financial management of the School; continually striving to deliver excellence in research, education, enterprise and innovation, be responsible and accountable for the quality and output of the School as measured by key performance indicators (KPIs).

About you

• Are you a strong leader who is passionate to create a positive culture of management, leadership, and engagement at all levels by motivating, influencing, and persuading others?
• Are you experienced in education/research/enterprise programme delivery?
• Do you have a comprehensive understanding of humanities in a 21st Century University context?

If so, we want to hear from you.

We look forward to receiving applications from candidates who demonstrate a passion for and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as the vision, values, and aspirations of the University of Southampton.

If you wish to have an initial and confidential discussion about the role please contact Victoria Sanders-Clarke via Victoria.Sanders-Clarke@society-search.com or +44 (0)203 653 2464

What we can offer you

Committed to supporting our teaching and research community we are open to a flexible working approach. With an understanding that there is a need to be on campus for performing duties, we are open to a hybrid approach.

We also offer additional benefits that will make your life easier, such as a generous holiday allowance and additional university closure days. We will support your long-term future too, with access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), subsidised health and fitness facilities, and a range of discounts.

As a university, we aim to create an inclusive environment that attracts, supports, and retains the best students and staff from diverse backgrounds and experiences from across the world. We are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect, and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work.

Additional Information

This post is offered on a tenured basis initially for a period of three years, which is extendable up to a maximum of five years. At the end of this tenure, the successful candidate will return to a substantive Professorial position within the University.

How to apply

Please submit your application here.

The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. For more information and details on how to apply, please email Society at Victoria.Sanders-Clarke@society-search.com or call on +44 (0)203 653 2464

Further details:

• Job Description and Person Specification
• Head of School of Humanities Candidate Pack

We believe equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to making the University of Southampton a welcoming, vibrant and successful organisation. Having a diverse workforce, inclusive of people of all ages and beliefs, from different racial, educational and social backgrounds opens up a wealth of possibilities, makes us more creative and accelerates our impact on society. We welcome applicants that value the diversity of our community and are willing to play their part in supporting the mission of inclusivity.

Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated in the job advert.