Associate Head of School; Research and Exchange), School of Education

This is a pivotal opportunity for an experienced academic leader to shape the strategic direction of research and knowledge exchange from the outset. Working closely with the Deputy Dean and Head of School, you will lead an ambitious portfolio that enhances impact, reputation and sustainability. The role combines strategic vision with operational leadership and carries clear accountability for performance, income generation and research impact within a dynamic, outward-facing and socially engaged School.

As Associate Head of School (Research & Knowledge Exchange), you will lead the School’s research and knowledge exchange strategy, delivering against agreed objectives, income targets and performance measures. You will strengthen the School’s contribution to  KEF, grow research and knowledge exchange income, and build impactful regional, national and international partnerships.

You will promote innovative, inclusive and interdisciplinary research, including responsible use of digital and AI‑enabled approaches, while fostering a high‑performing research culture that supports staff development and integrates research with teaching and the student experience.

You will be an established academic with a strong track record in research and/or knowledge exchange, including success in securing funding, producing high‑quality outputs and delivering demonstrable impact. You will bring experience of academic leadership, with the credibility and confidence to influence, inspire and deliver improvement through others.

You will have a clear and current understanding of the UK research and knowledge exchange landscape, including  KEF, and the ability to translate strategic ambition into measurable outcomes. A commitment to inclusive leadership, collaboration and academic excellence is essential. Experience of building partnerships, leading interdisciplinary initiatives and engaging with digital innovation and AI in an academic context will be particularly valuable.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape a distinctive and impactful research and knowledge exchange portfolio within a School committed to addressing inequality and improving outcomes across education and communities.

As Associate Head of School (Research & Knowledge Exchange), you will be instrumental in positioning the School and the wider Faculty as a leader in applied, socially relevant research and knowledge exchange that delivers income, reputation and real‑world impact.

• 35 days annual leave per annum, pro rata (Plus bank holidays and University closure days)
• Discounted membership to on‑site sport and leisure facilities
• Staff benefits scheme with discounts across retail, leisure and dining
• Employee Assistance Programme, including confidential counselling, legal and financial advice and wellbeing resources
• Access to a wide range of development programmes
• Award‑winning on‑campus working environment
• Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme