The role of the Head of School of Social Sciences

The Head of School of Social Sciences will work closely with colleagues across the University to ensure the success of their School in alignment with Faculty and University priorities.

You will bring inclusive and effective academic leadership experience in a social sciences discipline, along with a national and/or international research profile and a commitment to engaging diverse external audiences. Your broad understanding of the higher education landscape will be complemented by a leadership style that values collaboration, innovation, and the empowerment of others. We welcome applicants who demonstrate creativity, confidence informed by experience, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic Faculty of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences.

As Head of School, you will take a strategic approach to advancing research excellence while championing the public visibility and impact of our disciplines. Being a key member of the Faculty’s Leadership Group, you will help shape a sustainable and adaptable organisational structure that fosters inclusivity, enhances governance and management, and supports innovative ways of working. Your leadership will be key to promoting a positive and equitable working environment for staff and an enriching, accessible learning experience for all students.

As Head of School, you will work in close partnership with a Deputy Head of School, who will oversee the School’s operations, ensuring effective and inclusive management. To support inclusive and forward-thinking leadership, the School will work alongside an External Advisory Group that provides guidance, support, and constructive challenge.

Leading by example and embodying the University’s values, you will champion equality, diversity, inclusion, and the well-being of both staff and students. Your leadership will foster a collaborative, respectful, and supportive culture where everyone can thrive, contributing to the success of the School and the wider institution.

Duties and responsibilities

Strategic academic leadership
The Head of School is instrumental in crafting and advancing the School’s vision, ensuring alignment with the broader Faculty and University strategy. This involves promoting collaboration to achieve excellence in education, research, and engagement. A key advocate for the School, the Head of School builds robust external partnerships, secures research funding, and maintains an acute awareness of trends in higher education and research to inform strategy and decision-making.

School management and governance
A critical aspect of the role is ensuring adherence to quality assurance and governance standards while meeting performance indicators, including student recruitment and financial targets. Working closely with the Deputy Head of School, the Head develops continuous academic plans that are measurable and outcomes-driven.

People leadership and development
Fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment, the Head of School attracts, retains, and nurtures talent, aligning career development opportunities with Faculty priorities. The role champions EDI by implementing actionable strategies and cultivating an inclusive culture. Regular performance reviews and guidance ensure that staff reach their full potential, supported by clear expectations and accountability.

Financial and estate management
The Head of School oversees financial stewardship, collaborating with Faculty leadership to align budgets with strategic goals. They also contribute to long-term planning, income generation, and efficient use of facilities to support the School's sustainability and growth.

Health and safety leadership
As the safeguarding lead, the Head of School ensures a safe environment for all, upholding health and safety standards and addressing compliance requirements.

The candidate profile

Strategic leadership and vision
The successful candidate will have a proven ability to develop and articulate a clear strategic vision, aligning the School’s objectives with Faculty and University goals. They will demonstrate the capacity to lead and inspire teams in achieving excellence in education, research, and engagement. A forward-thinking approach towards the future growth of disciplines, along with the ability to drive innovation and adapt to change, are essential.

Equality, diversity, and inclusion
A strong commitment to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion will underpin the candidate’s leadership style. They will create an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into decision-making and strategic planning. The successful candidate will champion initiatives that promote fairness and representation at all levels within the School.

Planning and organisation
The ideal candidate will have significant experience in planning and managing complex activities, ensuring that resources are used effectively to meet operational and strategic goals. They will demonstrate the ability to set priorities, manage risks, and ensure compliance with governance and quality assurance frameworks while delivering measurable outcomes.

Communication and interpersonal skills
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills are critical for this role. The successful candidate will have the ability to build strong relationships, influence stakeholders, and facilitate collaboration across diverse teams. They will engage effectively with internal and external partners, enhancing the School’s reputation and impact.

Resource management
A thorough understanding of financial and resource management is required, including the ability to develop and manage budgets, align resources with strategic priorities, and ensure long-term organisational sustainability. The candidate will also be skilled in identifying and exploring opportunities for growth and income generation to strengthen the School’s position and reach.

Leadership and people management
The successful candidate will lead with empathy and collaboration, fostering a supportive and motivating environment for staff and students. They will attract and retain talented individuals, promote professional development, and through strategic leadership cultivate an environment conducive to the effective delivery of teaching, research, and engagement activities.

Problem solving and decision-making
The candidate will demonstrate the ability to address and resolve complex challenges, employing analytical thinking and creative solutions. They will make informed decisions based on data and stakeholder input, balancing short-term needs with long-term objectives.

The Head of School will embody Lancaster University’s values, demonstrating integrity, authenticity, and a commitment to academic excellence, contributing to a vibrant and forward-looking Faculty ready to meet the demands of the future.

This job description and person specification is also available on the Lancaster University recruitment portal.

Recruitment Statement

We aim to provide you with all the necessary information early on, allowing you to make an informed decision about pursuing this opportunity. We value open and transparent communication throughout recruitment and as such informal discussions and enquiries about the role can be arranged with our Executive Dean, Professor Edward Simpson, our Deputy Dean, Professor Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad, or the Associate Dean for Education, Dr Allison Hui. Arrangements can be made either directly or via Monika Zaczek, Executive Assistant, at m.zaczek@lancaster.ac.uk.

The position is based at our Bailrigg campus which is three miles outside of Lancaster, in the North West of England. The successful candidate will live within a reasonable commuting distance of campus. If relocation is necessary, we are happy to discuss and support you through this process. We encourage you to consider factors such as housing, schooling, and employment opportunities for any accompanying family members.

Lancaster University participates in national and international benchmarking to ensure competitive rewards and recognition, and we are confident that any offer made will reflect this.

If you are happy to continue in your application for the position in light of the above expectations, we would very much look forward to hearing from you.

Application process

To apply please answer the supporting statements aligned to the person specification demonstrating your skill knowledge or competency.

Please also upload your CV and a covering letter (2 x A4 max of text, 11pt arial, normal margins) to include an expression of interest, noting: why you wish to apply, your vision for the School, and how you would intend to approach the role, giving examples relating to the areas of responsibility listed:

Strategic academic leadership
School planning, management and governance
People leadership and development
Financial and estate management
Health and safety leadership

Interviews
Interviews of shortlisted candidates will take place on 17 March 2025, with the panel being chaired by the Vice Chancellor and including the FHASS Executive Dean.

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across the Faculty and supporting family-friendly, flexible, and agile working policies. We encourage applications from all diversity groups.

Enquiries
If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact the Executive Dean, Professor Edward Simpson, the Deputy Dean, Professor Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad, or the Associate Dean for Education, Dr Allison Hui. Arrangements can be made either directly or via Monika Zaczek, Executive Assistant, at m.zaczek@lancaster.ac.uk.