Professor of Sociology and Head of School

We wish to appoint an outstanding scholar and academic leader as Professor of Sociology and Head of the School of Sociology & Social Policy, to take the School forward after a period of substantial growth. As a Professor of Sociology, you will also be expected to give fresh impetus to a discipline with a long and distinguished history at Nottingham. The role will require someone with passion, drive and excellent communication skills who can provide inspirational leadership in a way that is empathetic, effective and efficient.

The School of Sociology & Social Policy is a dynamic community of scholars, professional service colleagues and students, spanning four inter-related disciplines:  Sociology, Social Policy, Criminology and Social Work. The School supports a strong and growing portfolio of research and knowledge exchange alongside delivery of high-quality education and student experience. Our research is supported by five research centres, substantial and diverse external funding and a commitment to knowledge exchange. In REF2021 we returned to UoA20 and were 15/76 for both GPA and power: we are eager to improve on this in REF2029. Our students benefit from research-led teaching and excellent graduate prospects, with a 2023 NSS mean score of 3.16 placing us second in the Russell Group.

As Head of School, you will be accountable to the Faculty Pro-Vice-Chancellor for all aspects of the performance and running of the School, including resource and budget management across education, research and the welfare and career development of circa.80 members of staff. Working collaboratively with colleagues across the School and Faculty, you will develop and implement an academic strategy in line with University and Faculty strategic plans, to achieve and maintain high standards in research and the education and experience of our students.

To be successful in this role, you will need to demonstrate effective, inclusive leadership and use your management skills both strategically and operationally. You will need to build working relationships and communicate effectively in formal and informal settings with diverse audiences. Analysis, judgement and problem-solving skills will be key to success. This will require an ability to cope under pressure and balance competing demands.

We are seeking applications from highly-motivated people, with a strong profile of academic achievement in both teaching and research, whose background, experience and identity broadens and enhances the diversity of our existing leadership team.

This is a permanent professorial appointment with the first five years as Head of School, and the potential for renewal for a second term. The role attracts a leadership allowance.

You are required to complete an application form and upload your CV and a covering statement (max 2 pages) outlining your vision and strategy for the School and how you will achieve this.

This role is available on a permanent basis. Hours of work are full time (36.25 hours).

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Jeremy Gregory, Interim Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Social Sciences: LZ-FoSS-PVC@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Advert information