Head of School of Computer Science and Mathematics

Faculty/Directorate

Faculty of Engineering, Computing & the Environment

School/Function

Faculty General (ECE)

Contract type

Permanent

Location of vacancy

Penrhyn Road

Actual hours

37

Posted Date

20/01/2025

Closing Date

16/02/2025

Ref No

4378

Documents

Kingston University's faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment (ECE) invites applications for the role of Head of School of Computer Science and Mathematics. We are seeking an exceptional leader to drive forward a thriving and innovative School known for its cutting-edge course offerings, vibrant research environment, and strong industry and knowledge-exchange partnerships. This role presents an exciting opportunity for a visionary and established leader ready to future-proof and shape the direction of computer science education, and research at an ambitious, forward-thinking institution.

About the School

The School of Computer Science and Mathematics is a hub for educational innovation, research and industry relevance, offering highly regarded undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Our courses reflect the evolving needs of business and industry across applied computer science, AI, cybersecurity, games, and digital media. Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, and recently achieving prestigious Siver certification for our cybersecurity programme, our offerings are built on the latest technologies and enhanced by active industry collaborations, giving students practical experience and professional insight.

Our dynamic research portfolio spans areas such as big data analytics, network security, IoT, and intelligent environments, attracting funding from key research councils, Innovate UK, and global sources. Our strong ties to industry keep our programmes current, applied, and engaging, providing students access to guest lectures from key industry professionals and hands-on projects with companies like the BBC and NBC.

As Head of School, you will be highly experienced at running large departments or already a Head of School responsible for shaping a cutting edge future for the School and leading a talented academic team committed to educational and research excellence.

Key responsibilities include:

Strategic Leadership: Articulate and implement a future-oriented strategy for the School, fostering a culture of innovation in teaching, research, and industry partnerships.

Curriculum Development: Oversee the development and delivery of a modern, design-led curriculum that anticipates industry needs and pushes the boundaries of traditional computer science education.

Research and Industry Engagement: Promote a dynamic research culture and strengthen the school's industry connections, ensuring our programmes remain impactful, relevant, and globally respected.

Student Experience: Champion an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages academic and personal growth, helping students become adaptable, skilled professionals ready to excel in the computing field.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for an experienced and inspiring leader with:

- A track record of strategic leadership and impactful management within a large academic grouping/department or current Head of School role in computer science or a closely related discipline.

- Expertise in developing curricula that are industry-responsive and research focused, bringing practical applications to the forefront of education.

- A distinguished research record in a relevant field, alongside a commitment to integrating research into a robust teaching approach.

- Proven experience in advancing industry partnerships and knowledge exchange, with a clear vision for maximising the school's reach and relevance.

- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to lead collaboratively, fostering a positive and engaging environment for both students and staff.

There are few faculties across the UK university landscape as varied in their scope as the Faculty of Engineering, Computing & the Environment (ECE). We teach and research across a wide range of subjects, allowing for real cross- discipline innovation and creativity. Our lecturers are experts – working at the forefront of their fields and actively engaged in research so they can bring advanced knowledge to their teaching. Our state-of-the-art facilities include specialist laboratories, a public outreach centre, a specialist virtual reality centre, a rocket lab, flight simulators, renewable energy lab, and 3 new labs related to electric, electronic and robotics, as well as an advanced design studio. For future scientists and engineers, this combines to create the ultimate real-life space for practical learning. For academic professionals, this all adds up to a truly vibrant, exciting environment in one of the largest and most diverse STEM faculties in the sector.

This is a full time, permanent position with a starting salary from £92,215 - £112,322 per annum.

Applications should consist of:

- a concise covering letter (ideally no longer than two pages), addressing the criteria in the Person Specification;

- an up-to-date curriculum vitae;

- names and contact details of three referees (although referees will only be approached at the final stage of the process, and only with your express permission).

For informal enquiries, please contact Damian Chapman, Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computing & the Environment or Jill Booth, Faculty Executive PA & Support Coordinator.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 16 February 2025.

Timetable

- Shortlisting: w/c 17 February 2025

- Psychometric testing: w/c 24 February 2025

- Formal Interviews: w/c 3 March 2025

If the interview date poses a problem for you, please let us know about this at the time of application.

Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston where we are continuing to strive to build a university where authentic inclusion and belonging is at its heart. Every one of our staff and students' identities, backgrounds and diverse experiences makes us who we are - so harness and embrace yours by applying today. We welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities and those with disabilities.

We are a place-based organisation, proud of our location in Kingston and the civic role we play in our community. Our campuses inspire collaborative, innovative and creative communities. Being present on campus is important to us because it helps us to create a sense of belonging for both our staff and students. Therefore, staff are expected to be on campus for the majority of their working week.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required, this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.

To apply click on ‘Apply Now'. If, for accessibility reasons, you need to apply in an alternative format, please email [email protected] or call the HR Shared Services team on 020 8417 3118.