Head of School

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 Winchester School of Art (WSA) has been at the forefront of art and design creativity and innovation for over 150 years. With a world-class reputation for creative education, research, and professional practice, we are committed to environmental sustainability, social engagement, internationalism and leading practice at the intersection of art, science, technology and culture. We are now looking for a new Head of School to drive forward an impactful vision.

As the Head you will be responsible for developing and delivering a shared vision and strategy for the School, creating and maintaining a positive collegiate environment that encourages and supports excellence in research, education, and knowledge exchange, and for managing the human, physical and financial resources of the School.

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. Winchester School of Art comprises three departments: Fashion & Textiles, Art Media & Technology, and Design.

About you

• Are you an engaged leader who is passionate to create a positive culture 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 the arts and the interconnected nature of arts within a university structure? 

What we can offer you

Committed to supporting our education and research community we are open to a flexible working approach. With an understanding that there is a need to be on campus for undertaking head of school responsibilities, 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. 

Gareth Duxbury: Consulting is supporting the University of Southampton on this recruitment. For further details, and to apply, please visit http://garethdconsulting.co.uk.

For an informal discussion please contact Gareth via gareth.e.duxbury@gmail.com; or

Professor Miguel Mera, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities m.mera@soton.ac.uk.

Applications must consist of a full CV and covering letter addressing the Job Description and Person Specification. 

Engagement Date: 13^th February 2025

Interview Date: 17^th and 18^th March 2025

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