Subject Lead: FE and Skills

About the College/Department

At the University of Derby, our Institute of Education and Skills (IoE&S) is at the heart of shaping the educators, trainers, and leaders of tomorrow. We are dedicated to inspiring, developing, and empowering professionals across education, training, and lifelong learning to transform lives and communities. 

About University of Derby Buxton

University of Derby Buxton is a vibrant and unique campus set in the heart of the Peak District, combining a rich history with a forward-looking approach to education. Based in the iconic Devonshire Dome, the Buxton campus is home to specialist programmes such as hospitality, culinary arts, events, tourism, and hair and beauty. 

The campus is designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences, supported by industry-standard facilities and strong links to local, national, and international employers. With its blend of practical training, academic expertise, and professional partnerships, Buxton offers an environment where students can develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in dynamic and competitive industries. 

University of Derby Buxton is rated ‘Good’ by OFSTED in all inspection areas, including teaching, learning & assessment, outcomes for learners, personal development, behaviour & welfare; and has a team of dedicated staff who take pride in supporting learners towards their study and career goals. This is a fantastic opportunity to join our team on our journey to becoming an outstanding provider.  

About the Role

Working in close partnership with the Director of IoES and senior colleagues, you will provide strategic leadership across our FE & Skills provision, driving exceptional student experiences and outcomes. You will lead and develop high-performing teams, championing excellence in teaching, curriculum innovation, industry engagement and scholarly activity.

With a strong focus on impact and continuous improvement, you will oversee performance, inspire professional growth and ensure provision meets - and exceeds - sector-leading standards. You will also play a key role in strengthening external partnerships, supporting academic enterprise and identifying new opportunities for growth and innovation.

About You

You will be an experienced and values-driven leader with a strong track record in FE and Skills and a passion for delivering exceptional student outcomes. You will bring senior-level leadership experience, with the credibility to lead, inspire and challenge teams across a complex educational portfolio.

You will have substantial experience of line management, curriculum leadership and quality assurance, with a clear understanding of FE/apprenticeship policy, regulation and performance frameworks. A collaborative and strategic thinker, you will be confident working with senior stakeholders, industry partners and central university teams, using data and insight to drive continuous improvement.

Essential for success in the role:

• Proven leadership and management experience within FE and/or Apprenticeship and Skills provision
• Strong understanding of quality, compliance and performance management
• Ability to lead people through change and inspire high performance
• Commitment to inclusive practice, professional development and the University’s values

A relevant teaching qualification and significant sector experience are essential, alongside the credibility to lead through teaching, scholarship and professional engagement.

Key Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Dr Sarah Charles, Director of the Institute of Education & Skills via s.charles@derby.ac.uk

For more information and to apply on-line, please click the “Apply” button above.

Advert information