"Academic Dean"

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly qualified and dedicated Academic Dean to provide leadership for two Sino-British joint programmes in Rehabilitation and Exercise Therapy (physiotherapy) and Public Health Management. This pivotal role is responsible for ensuring the exceptional quality, integrity, and successful delivery of the UK curriculum at CDUTCM – Keele campus, Chengdu, China.

The ideal candidate will be an academic leader with deep knowledge of the UK higher education system, a strong background in the health sciences industry, and a proven experience to bridge British academic standards with the needs of a dynamic international setting.

Key Responsibilities:

Academic Leadership & Quality Assurance:

• Serve as the academic authority on the UK curriculum, ensuring all programmes adhere to the standards of the UK partner university and the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) framework. Maintain and manage a comprehensive quality assurance system for the full teaching process, including curriculum design review, instructional supervision, and assessment/evaluation standardisation. Proactively identify and address teaching quality issues by implementing advanced UK pedagogical methods and assessment tools.

Faculty & Teaching Operations Management:

• Lead, manage, and mentor the UK faculty team, fostering a culture of teaching excellence and continuous improvement. Oversee all teaching operations, including scheduling, faculty development, and performance management. Coordinate effectively with Chinese faculty leadership to ensure seamless integration and optimisation of the Sino-UK curriculum systems.

Curriculum Development & Industry Relevance:

• Ensure programme content remains at the forefront of the field, aligning with UK academic standards and evolving industry needs in rehabilitation therapy and health management. Use practical, frontline healthcare experience to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice, enhancing graduate employability. Lead periodic programme reviews and curriculum enhancement initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration:

• Serving as the principal liaison for quality assurance, ensuring the local institute's alignment with and adherence to rigorous UK academic standards. Build strong, collaborative relationships with UK partner faculty, local Chinese staff, and students.

Sustainable Growth and Continues Success (Overall):

• Championing a culture of continuous enhancement by proactively identifying and implementing initiatives that elevate the academic provision beyond baseline standards. Spearheading the development and integration of innovative quality frameworks that not only assure compliance but actively drive excellence in teaching, learning, and assessment. Forging strategic partnerships with faculty and leadership to anticipate future academic needs and co-create a forward-looking, excellence-driven educational environment. Leading targeted, evidence-based improvement projects that translate quality assurance data into tangible enhancements for student experience and academic outcomes.

Requirements:

Essential Requirements:

• A PhD (or equivalent) from a recognised university outside of China in Rehabilitation Therapy, Health Services Management, or a closely related field. A minimum of 5 years of UK HE teaching and/or administrative experience, including a mid-senior leadership role. Demonstrable, practical experience in clinical rehabilitation or health services management. Ability to work full-time in Chengdu on a long-term basis, with a minimum residency of 9 months per year.

Desirable:

• Stronge experience in international educational collaboration, with proven track record in align British and Chinese academic standards. Experience living and working in China or a similar international cross-cultural environment.

Benefits and Compensation:

We offer a comprehensive international compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications, includes:

• Competitive Salary: A highly competitive salary package, with the potential for performance-based incentives. Relocation Assistance: Support with relocation to Chengdu. Housing Allowance: A generous housing allowance or provided accommodation. International Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage, and China’s social security scheme. Travel Benefits: Annual round-trip airfare to the home country. Professional Development: An annual allowance for conferences, research, and executive development. Visa Support: Full support in obtaining the necessary visa and work permit in China.

How to Apply:

CDUTCM-Keele is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter addressing the key requirements to the website. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.