Job Summary Table of Academic Leadership Position

Job Description Summary

The University of Westminster seeks an exceptional academic leader to serve as Head of Westminster School of Arts, providing strategic vision and operational leadership for this prestigious school encompassing arts, emerging technologies, fashion, and music.

🏛️ Academic Leadership Role at a Historic Institution

The University of Westminster, with its remarkable 185-year legacy as London’s first polytechnic institution, invites applications for the position of Head of Westminster School of Arts. This prestigious leadership role presents a unique opportunity to shape the future of arts education at an institution known for its commitment to practical, relevant, and contemporary teaching.

The role has become available following the promotion of the current Head to a Pro-Vice Chancellor position, creating this exceptional opportunity for a visionary leader to take the helm of this dynamic school. Working within the beautiful Harrow Campus, the successful candidate will lead a diverse and innovative academic community focused on the intersection of traditional arts practices and cutting-edge digital technologies.

School Structure and Academic Leadership Focus

The Westminster School of Arts comprises three distinct yet interconnected disciplinary areas: – 🖌️ Arts and Emerging Technologies – 👗 Fashion – 🎵 Music

Each area operates under the guidance of a specialist Assistant Head of School, creating a robust and collaborative leadership structure that the new Head will oversee and develop. The School has built an impressive reputation for practice-based research, hosting the renowned Centre for Research in Education, Art and Media (CREAM) alongside various specialized research groups.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic vision and operational leadership for the Westminster School of Arts
• Serve as a key member of the Design, Creative & Digital Industries (DCDI) College Executive Group
• Enhance student experience and achieve outstanding graduate outcomes
• Drive innovation and expansion in market-leading academic programs
• Spearhead growth in income and impact from research and knowledge exchange activities
• Cultivate a strong, positive culture within the School and broader University community
• Manage resources effectively while aligning with the University’s strategic goals
• Support doctoral programs and research initiatives within the School’s disciplines
• Foster industry partnerships and work-based learning opportunities for students

🌟 Unique Academic Environment and Educational Philosophy

What sets the Westminster School of Arts apart is its distinctive approach to education that bridges materiality and crafting practices with digital technologies to address global challenges. The curriculum is firmly rooted in industry-led teaching, learning, and assessment, with work-based learning serving as a cornerstone across all courses.

The School demonstrates a clear commitment to preparing students for successful careers, with an ambitious goal of 100% employment upon graduation. To achieve this, students benefit from extensive placement opportunities, internships, and study abroad programs. The curriculum also prominently features modules that align with UN Strategic Development Goals and Education for Sustainable Development, reflecting the institution’s forward-thinking approach.

Graduates of the Westminster School of Arts are widely recognized for their innovative thinking and ability to act as changemakers within the creative and createch sectors, a testament to the School’s effective educational philosophy and industry connections.

Benefits and Perks

• Lead a prestigious school within a historic London university
• Work at the beautiful Harrow Campus, dedicated to creative disciplines
• Collaborate with leading academics and industry professionals
• Shape the future of arts education at the intersection of tradition and technology
• Opportunity to impact research through the Centre for Research in Education, Art and Media
• Smart Working principles supporting work-life balance and inclusivity

💼 Ideal Candidate Profile for Academic Leadership

The University seeks an inspiring and compassionate leader who can demonstrate: – Strong alignment with Westminster’s values of being responsible, progressive, and compassionate – A proven track record in successful resource planning and implementation – Exceptional communication and people management skills – The ability to develop a strong, positive academic culture – A genuine passion for the School’s diverse disciplines – Commitment to providing outstanding student experiences – Vision for continuing innovation in academic programming – Strategic approach to growing research and knowledge exchange activities

Company Overview

Founded 185 years ago as London’s first polytechnic institution, the University of Westminster has evolved into a globally recognized institution known for helping students realize their full potential regardless of background. Located in the heart of London, a diverse world city, Westminster embodies values of responsibility, progressiveness, and compassion in its approach to education and community engagement.

Company Culture

The University of Westminster prides itself on a culture that reflects its global reach while maintaining strong connections to its London location. The institution values practical, relevant, and contemporary teaching methods that prepare students for real-world challenges. Westminster has adopted Smart Working principles to support its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, creating a flexible and collaborative work environment.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

At the University of Westminster, diversity, inclusion, and equality of opportunity are fundamental principles that guide all interactions with students, colleagues, applicants, visitors, and stakeholders. The institution is fully committed to fostering a supportive and safe learning and working environment based on mutual respect and trust, where harassment and discrimination are neither tolerated nor acceptable.

Application Process

1. Review the full job description and person specification available through the application link
2. Submit your application through the University’s recruitment system
3. If shortlisted, participate in interviews scheduled for Monday, 16th June 2025
4. Interviews will take place at the Harrow Campus, where the School of Arts is located

Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted by midnight on 22nd May 2025.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the University’s recruitment system. For informal conversations about the role, please contact the Head of College, Professor Catherine Dormor, by emailing c.dormor@westminster.ac.uk.

For queries regarding the application process, please contact: Recruitment@westminster.ac.uk

🔍 Career Growth and Academic Impact Opportunities

This leadership position offers significant opportunities for professional development and academic impact. As Head of School, you will have the platform to shape educational programs, influence research directions, and contribute to the broader strategic development of both the Design, Creative & Digital Industries College and the University as a whole.

The role provides visibility within the higher education sector and the creative industries, allowing the successful candidate to build valuable networks and partnerships that can enhance both personal career trajectory and institutional reputation.

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