Head of Department & Professor - English and Related Literature

Role Description

The Department of English and Related Literature brings together world-leading research with inspirational teaching. The Department is ranked as a UK Top 5 and World Top 30 Department, and has consistently been ranked 6th or higher for Research Excellence, including in the most recent exercise REF2021. Following the end of the term of Professor Helen Smith, the University is seeking to appoint an outstanding academic with the leadership skills to continue the excellent work undertaken in the department.

Female candidates, and candidates who identify as Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic or Global Majority are strongly encouraged to apply as they are currently under-represented within the Department and in leadership roles at the University.

The Role
Heads of Department at York have three roles of equal weight. They are, first, academic leaders of their departments, responsible for the highest possible standards in research and impact, teaching and student experience. Second, they are a crucial component in Faculty-level decision-making, working with the Dean, their team, and fellow HoDs to build ambitious Faculty-wide academic strategies and to generate and manage the resources needed to deliver them. Third, they are Senior Leaders of the University as a whole, representing the university to local, national and international stakeholders, and building and sharing the experience and expertise that enables us to meet our commitments as a University for Public Good.

Key Requirements:

• PhD in relevant subject
• Relevant research and teaching at a high level
• A personal academic standing which commands the respect of colleagues within the department, University and externally
• Strong commitment to the goals and vision of the University
• Ability to inspire, influence and persuade at all levels of the organisation
• Proven record of managing diverse resources in the University or a similar environment
• Integrity, openness and honesty with a strong commitment to equality and inclusivity and an understanding of cultural differences and considerations

Closing Date: 23/04/2023
Interview Date: 11/05/2023

Applicants interested in an informal discussion regarding the position are encouraged to contact the University Recruitment Adviser; Paul Ellison (paul.ellison@york.ac.uk).

About York
The University of York is a member of the prestigious Russell Group. We are a dynamic, research-intensive university, undertaking groundbreaking research that underpins our inspiring teaching. Our University Strategy 2030 is based on four core principles and is focused around key aims that inspire every area of university life - our research, teaching, support and community aspirations.

A University for Public Good.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork