Head of School

Salary: c.£75,000 per annum, with some flexibility for an exceptional candidate

West Dean College is seeking an experienced professional and academic who is passionate about the creative arts as their next Head of School of Arts, Crafts and Conservation to lead their internationally renowned school.

The School of Arts, Crafts and Conservation is one of the two specialist schools within West Dean College. Based at the Sussex campus, the School supports the development of contemporary artistic practice, the continuation and renewal of specialist craft knowledge and the training of highly skilled conservation professionals capable of working with historic objects and materials.

About the role

The Head of School of Arts, Crafts and Conservation is a senior academic leadership role within West Dean College, forming part of the College’s senior academic leadership team and reporting to the Vice-Principal of West Dean College. The role contributes to the College’s strategic leadership while working within West Dean’s wider organisational context.

Leading one of the College’s most distinctive and nationally significant areas of provision and playing a key role in shaping the future development of its distinctive educational model, the Head of School will provide strategic and academic leadership for the School’s programmes, staff and partnerships.

Who we are looking for

The role requires a credible and experienced academic leader with substantial higher education leadership experience and a strong understanding of quality assurance, regulation and academic governance. Candidates will bring a strategic mindset, with the ability to shape long‑term plans, develop academic portfolios and respond to professional body requirements and global trends in creative education, alongside a proven commitment to student success.

The role also requires financial acumen, inclusive and effective people leadership, and the ability to build influential relationships.

While not essential, doctoral qualifications or equivalent professional standing, recognised research or practice, international networks, fundraising experience and cross‑disciplinary leadership are welcomed.

Please click 'Apply’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 29th April.