Head of Department of Law
University of York
United Kingdom

Role Description

The University of York invites applications from exceptional academic leaders to guide York Law School into its next phase, commencing in 2025. This is a unique opportunity to shape the intellectual community and strategic direction of a dynamic and forward-thinking Law School within a prestigious Russell Group university.

Role and Responsibilities:

The Head of York Law School will provide collaborative academic leadership, nurturing a culture of excellence in research, teaching, and engagement. The successful candidate will:

• Cultivate a Shared Vision: Develop and articulate a compelling vision for York Law School, enhancing its national and international reputation for research and innovative legal education.
• Support Collaborative Research: Champion and facilitate collaborative research across diverse legal fields, fostering interdisciplinary connections.
• Enhance Student-Centred Learning: Guide the development of engaging pedagogies and curricula.
• Foster a Connected Academic Community: Nurture a supportive and inclusive academic environment that values diversity, equity, and open intellectual exchange.
• Facilitate Effective Resource Management: Oversee the School's financial operations, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities through collaborative decision making.
• Serve as an Ambassador: Represent the Law School and the University, engaging with external stakeholders and contributing to the broader academic community.
• Guide Strategic Implementation: Translate strategic goals into actionable operational plans, guiding the management team through collaborative leadership.
• Engage in Collective Faculty Leadership: Participate actively in the faculty's collective decision-making regarding strategy and finance.

Key Requirements

• A proven track record of collaborative academic leadership, with the ability to inspire, support, and empower colleagues.
• PhD or equivalent in Law or a related field, with a substantial record of scholarly achievement.
• A strong record of collaborative research and impactful publications, commensurate with a professorial appointment.
• Experience in strategic planning, financial management, and resource allocation, with an emphasis on team based decisions.
• A strong commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.

Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:

The University of York is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive. We warmly encourage applications from women and individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds, who are currently underrepresented in leadership roles within the institution.

Informal Enquiries:

Prospective candidates are encouraged to make informal enquiries to Paul Ellison (paul.ellison@york.ac.uk) HR Recruitment Advisor.

Application Deadline: 12 May 2025
Interview Date: 05 June 2025

The University of York: A Nurturing Academic Community:

York Law School provides a stimulating and supportive environment for academic growth. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to professional development, we offer a platform for scholars to make meaningful contributions to the field of law. We are proud of our collaborative atmosphere, family-friendly policies, and dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork