Provost and Vice-Principal

The University of Birmingham is a comprehensive research-intensive institution, ranked in the top 100 universities globally, and home to a diverse community of over 42,000 students from 150 countries and more than 10,000 staff. A £1bn organisation, our heritage as Britain’s first civic university combines with an ambitious contemporary agenda to continue our transformation and become a global top 50 institution. Over 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent; our five research themes focus on a thriving planet, life-changing technologies, connecting cultures, global health and a fairer world. We are bolstering our academic quality even further with the recruitment of outstanding new Anniversary Chairs and Fellows. We are the most targeted UK university by graduate employers and are a diverse community, with staff and students from Birmingham and the West Midlands, across the UK and around the world. Our 2045 Campus Vision sets out an exciting masterplan for the long-term development of the University’s estate, in support of our research and education. 

Against this backdrop, we now seek to appoint our next Provost and Vice-Principal. This is a pivotal senior academic and leadership role within the University and is central to the successful delivery of the Birmingham 2030 strategic framework. The Provost reports to the Vice-Chancellor and deputises for them as required. The Provost provides strategic academic leadership, working closely with the University Executive Board, and has particular responsibility for University-level resource planning, including finance, staffing and other resources. Working collaboratively with the wider senior leadership team, there is considerable scope to initiate and lead major projects and initiatives for the University.  The postholder will make a significant contribution to the strategic and academic development of the University, fostering a strong culture of excellence, innovation and collaboration, in a challenging higher education environment. 

This role offers a major opportunity for an outstanding individual to shape and advance the academic agenda at Birmingham. Bringing an excellent academic track record, the successful candidate will demonstrate: proven and substantial senior academic leadership and management experience; the ability to deputise for the Vice-Chancellor; successful experience and understanding of resource management at scale; an ability to build positive collaborative relationships internally and externally. 

The University is committed to building a fully inclusive and diverse community, including in its senior leadership. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates from all backgrounds with the qualifications and experience to undertake this role, including under-represented groups.  

Applications should consist of a covering letter, full CV detailing academic and professional qualifications, employment history, latest remuneration and relevant achievements. 

Closing date for applications is Sunday, 12^th October at 23:59 BST 2025.

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