Head of the School of Area Studies Sociology History Politics and Literature

The University of Portsmouth is a global employer of choice where exceptional people create, share and apply knowledge that makes a difference.

Experience the pride of being part of a select group – one of only four universities in the south-east of England to achieve a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. Additionally, we proudly rank among the top 140 universities globally in the Times Higher Young University World Rankings.

Ambition, Responsibility and Openness drive our every endeavour. Join our esteemed institution with a proven track record of success, and where dedication to excellence is key. We want people to make their mark in a professional community that truly values people, innovation, and achievement.

The Role:

As a Faculty Executive member, the Head of School (HoS) shapes the strategic and financial direction of the Faculty, overseeing its implementation at the School level. This role encompasses substantial staff management, development, and workload coordination, all aligned with broader University and Faculty plans, and evolving priorities. The HoS plays a pivotal role in advancing Faculty and University objectives, such as student recruitment, diversified teaching offerings, academic partnerships, and enhancing research and innovation. The Head of School ensures the Faculty's objectives persist and evolve to fulfil local enhancement plans throughout the post's duration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership of the academic provision, including education, research and innovation and curricula development. Maintaining and enhancing the ongoing quality of all School activities, ensuring the quality of the student experience from initial marketing and recruitment stages through to graduation, including the implementation of quality assurance processes and the maintenance and enhancement of academic standards.
• Determine and manage an effective organisational and committee structure within the School and managing this structure to ensure fitness for purpose. Establishing, implementing and reviewing local policy within the wider University framework and seeking compliance with general University policies and regulatory framework.
• Establish, implement and review School strategic plans in line with those of the Faculty and University and in the context of managing this within revenue budgets; producing financial and investment plans, encouraging income-generating activities and managing the School infrastructure and equipment needs. Acquiring and managing resources (academic staff, finance, space and equipment).

Whilst there is a need to be in Portsmouth a few days a week, hybrid working is available for this role.

Interview dates:

First stage interview (phone call): 18 August 2026

Interview & Assessment (In person): 04 September 2026

If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact Dr Eric Baumgartner at eric.baumgartner@port.ac.uk 

UKVI Statement

Prior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please be aware that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.

ED&I Statement:

We are committed to upholding the University’s values of being ambitious, open and responsible, in an inclusive working environment that promotes dignity and respect.

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