"Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS)"

Reports to:

Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA)

Appointment Period:

Three-year appointment, renewable

Academic Qualification:

Professor

Work Location:

Suzhou, China

Recruitment Type:

International

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Dean of HSS is a member of the University's senior management team. This role reports directly to the University Vice President of Academic Affairs and serves as the chief academic and administrative leader of the School of HSS.

The appointee is expected to provide energetic leadership and strategic direction in reshaping HSS education and research of the School, aligning with the University’s vision to become a leading reformer of HSS education in China and globally; in guiding the School in its diverse activities including undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum developments, research directions, academic partnerships, and industry linkages; and further advancing its global stature.

Leadership

Alongside the Staff, School Administration, and with the support of other leaders within the School, to:

1. Lead on the further development of the School’s vision and mission...
2. Act as a role model for leadership behaviour...
3. Provide people-focused leadership...
4. Promote and represent the School...
5. Contribute to University-led activities...

Research

This role demands a balance of visionary leadership... (full list 1-7)

Learning and Teaching

By guiding academic programmes... (full list 1-9)

Team Management

By emphasising collaboration... (full list 1-9)

External Engagement

The Dean’s leadership in External Engagement... (full list 1-8)

Financial Management

Empower the School’s senior team to manage devolved budgets...

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

1. Advanced Academic Credentials: A PhD or equivalent...
2. Proven Research and Teaching Excellence: ...
3. Academic Leadership Experience: ...
4. Global Perspective and International Experience: ...
5. Strong Industry and Corporate Relations: ...
6. Academic Quality Assurance: ...

Please submit your CV, along with a covering letter of up to two pages, outlining your relevant experience and how you meet the expectations of the position, by 28th February 2026. Interviews will be held shortly after this. Informal enquiries about the role can be made to Professor Zhoulin Ruan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, via Zhoullin.ruan@xjtlu.edu.cn.