Dean of the School of Dentistry

We are seeking a collaborative, visionary, and values-led academic to lead the School of Dentistry, an internationally renowned and a leading centre of excellence in education, research, and clinical engagement. This is a pivotal, significant and complex leadership role representing an opportunity for an exceptional individual who can combine their academic leadership and commercial acumen to shape and advance the future of oral health and care in partnership with colleagues across the University, the NHS, and wider communities.

You will bring transformational academic leadership and strategic insight, with the ability to foster inclusive collaboration and build trusted relationships across disciplines and institutions. With a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges in dental education and healthcare, you will work with our leadership teams and external partners to shape a future-facing agenda that strengthens research, enriches student education, and delivers real-world impact in oral health and wellbeing.

Your leadership will support our vision to provide a transformative, values-driven and exceptional educational experience, informed by world-leading interdisciplinary research. You’ll play a key role in preparing students to thrive in a changing global context, while also contributing to positive health outcomes for communities locally, nationally, and globally.

Reporting into the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Medicine & Health, the Dean will lead the development and delivery of the School’s academic strategy and priorities through the Faculty’s ‘Learn Together, Work Together’ ethos. This is underpinned by the University Values of Collaboration, Compassion, Inclusivity and Integrity. You will help shape a culture where staff and students are supported and inspired to achieve their full potential, and where innovation, inclusion, and excellence are championed to deliver world-leading research and an exceptional student experience in an international and interdisciplinary context. 

As a senior leader within the Faculty, you will also contribute to broader strategic initiatives, representing the School and Faculty within the University and across the wider sector. You will serve as an external ambassador, helping to influence health education policy and shape the future of dental and oral health services through strong partnerships with NHS organisations, local authorities, and national networks.

We are looking for a credible, politically astute, and forward-looking leader with a track record of enabling academic excellence, leading change through collaboration, and engaging others in a shared vision. You will bring a clear understanding of the evolving higher education and healthcare landscapes, and how academic leadership can help meet today’s complex national and global challenges.

If you are inspired by this opportunity and ready to contribute your leadership, insight, and experience to a thriving, inclusive academic community, we would be delighted to hear from you. 

To find out more or have a confidential, informal discussion with the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Medicine & Health, Professor Mark Kearney please contact m.t.kearney@leeds.ac.uk. 

For more information please visit our School of Dentistry web pages.

To apply for the role, please submit 

• A supporting statement of no more than 3 pages of A4, providing your vision for the School and how your knowledge and expertise equip you to carry out the role set out in the role profile. 
• A curriculum vitae, detailing your qualifications and experience and most recent publications. 

Stakeholder and Interview Panel are likely to be held Friday 03 October 2025.

Advert information