Dean of the University of Southampton Business School

Shape our success

We are seeking an exceptional academic leader to join the University of Southampton as Dean of the University of Southampton Business School.

The University is currently ranked 87th in the world*, and this role is pivotal to advancing our position further. Our University Strategy is built around a distinctive Triple Helix model, harnessing the combined power of our excellence in research, education, and knowledge exchange and enterprise. As Dean, you will draw on your academic credibility and inclusive leadership experience to shape the next chapter for the school, ensuring alignment with wider Faculty and University priorities.

This is a unique opportunity for an inspiring leader to build on our momentum, champion the achievements of our staff and students, and proactively forge new opportunities globally. You will model our values and lead with integrity, driving our commitment to excellence in all that we do. From providing a transformative student experience to delivering world-class, impactful research and fostering an inclusive, collaborative community within and beyond the University.

Join us

The University of Southampton Business School is a dynamic, internationally recognised unit comprising six interdisciplinary departments: Accounting; Banking and Finance; Decision Analytics and Risk; Digital and Data Driven Marketing; Human Resource Management and Organisational Behaviour; and Strategy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Together, these departments deliver globally recognised research, education, knowledge exchange and enterprise activities that address complex transnational challenges.

Our interdisciplinary research strengths span sustainability, data analytics and artificial intelligence, leadership and governance, making sustainable impacts that shape academia, public policy, and industry worldwide. Ranked among the top 25% of UK business schools for research quality*, we work collaboratively with government agencies, local authorities, research organisations, and businesses to deliver solutions with real-world impact. Strong industry connections provide students with practical experience and ensure our graduates are highly sought after by leading employers.

About you

You are an accomplished academic leader with a proven record in research, education, knowledge exchange, and enterprise. With experience leading a faculty, school or similar complex environment, you bring vision, ambition, and the ability to deliver results aligned with institutional goals.

Your leadership style is visible, transparent, and collaborative, fostering trust and respect across staff, students, and stakeholders. You unite diverse communities, promote equality of opportunity, and shape a positive culture that values excellence and innovation. You guide change with vision and resilience, building trust and leading transformation with confidence and empathy. Combining strategic thinking with financial acumen, you ensure sustainability while creating opportunities for growth.

With strong communication skills, you cultivate strategic relationships within the University and beyond, influencing senior stakeholders across government, industry, and global partners to strengthen the School’s reputation and impact. Your academic leadership is underpinned by research credibility, accreditation expertise and a deep understanding of the UK Higher Education landscape, enabling you to balance strategic vision with operational delivery.

Above all, you are motivated by the opportunity to shape the future of the School and the University, fostering a culture of excellence, equality, diversity, and inclusion, while strengthening income generation and enhancing our national and international reputation.

A global and diverse university

Our people are our university; they are at the heart of everything we do and the impact we make. We are proud to foster a truly diverse and inclusive environment where students and staff from all walks of life can thrive. Our community is built on mutual respect, core values, and a collective passion for creating an innovative and forward-thinking space for learning and research.

We are nationally recognised for our commitment to equality, and for embedding inclusive practices across the institution. We are proud to be an Athena Swan silver award holder at an institutional level, a Race Equality Charter bronze award holder, a Disability Confident Leader, and a University Mental Health Charter award holder. We are also proactive members of the Researcher Development Concordat and Technician Commitment. These achievements reflect our dedication to equity, representation, and opportunity for all.

What we can offer you

We support a flexible and supportive working environment, complemented by a competitive benefits package that includes membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), generous annual leave, corporate healthcare, subsidised fitness facilities, and a range of staff discounts. A full overview of our benefits can be found here. 

Southampton is a dynamic, well-connected coastal city with a lively cultural scene and excellent amenities, making it an ideal place to live, work, and thrive at any stage of life or career.

Additional Information

This post is offered on a tenured basis initially for a period of five years, which is extendible up to a maximum of eight years. At the end of this tenure, the successful candidate will return to a substantive Professorial position within the University. For further details, please refer to the generic Professor Job Description.

Important dates

The closing date for receipt of applications is midnight (GMT) on Sunday, 1st February 2026.

Following a longlist meeting of the Search Committee, successful candidates will be invited to attend a virtual Engagement Day on Wednesday 11th March 2026.
Interviews are scheduled to take place in person at the Highfield Campus on Tuesday 31st March 2026.

*QS World University Rankings 2026

*Research Excellence Framework, 2021

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 backgrounds, 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 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 on the job. 

You should submit your completed online application form by clicking the ‘Apply’ button above.