Director of Institute of Creativity and Innovation

Institute of Creativity and Innovation (ICI)

Zhangzhou, China

Application deadline: 2025-09-30

Salary: £75,914 to £85,344 per annum

Fixed term: for 2 years

About the Role

The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) is seeking an experienced academic leader to take on the pivotal role of Director of School at the Institute of Creativity and Innovation (ICI), a dynamic joint-venture institute between Xiamen University (XMU) and UCA. This is a unique and exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of an institution that is redefining how creativity is taught in China.

As the Director of School, you will lead a team of academic staff and oversee the delivery of a diverse portfolio of undergraduate courses across disciplines such as visual arts, environmental design, visual communication design, and new media. The successful candidate will be responsible for shaping the strategic direction, academic excellence, and operational success of ICI, ensuring it meets the evolving demands of the Chinese creative industries.

About You

The right candidate will have the drive and experience needed to oversee the successful running and expansion of the Institute and to further develop its portfolio of courses in line with the needs of the emerging Chinese creative industries.

Why Join Us?

Based at the Zhangzhou Campus of Xiamen University, you will work in an inspiring environment surrounded by mountains on one side and Amoy Bay on the other. It’s a short commute to beautiful beaches, or the city of Xiamen, the multicultural centre of South-East China.

Benefits Include:

• 30 days of annual leave
• Teachers’ pension scheme enrolment
• Medical insurance for you and your family
• Visa application reimbursement for you and your family
• Relocation support, including flight costs and a settling-in allowance
• Annual home visit (repatriation) allowance
• Free accommodation in China for you and your family
• School or nursery allowance for dependents
• Tax advice and support

Join Our Creative International Community

At ICI, you will be part of a vibrant international network of designers, artists, architects, and researchers who are pioneering new approaches to creative education and research. Our educators are actively engaged in cutting-edge projects, and by joining us, you will help shape the future of creative industries in China and beyond.

Ready to inspire the next generation of creative leaders? Apply now and be part of this exciting global collaboration.

To Apply: Please click on the link below. You will need to upload the following documents to complete the application process:

• Your updated CV.
• A cover letter addressing your suitability for the role (Please view the attached recruitment pack for reference)
• Your portfolio and/or any other supporting documents that you believe would be beneficial (Optional)

Apply now

Priority will be given to applicants with experience of working in the UK, or other countries where courses are taught in English.

Candidates must be able to meet the Chinese visa requirements. UCA will assist with obtaining a visa.

If you would welcome an informal chat about the role before applying, or any aspect of living and working in China, please contact P&C by email, peopleandculture@uca.ac.uk providing your contact details.