Head of School Law, Politics and Sociology(UK Sponsorship)

Automotive Jobs
Uk
March 24, 2026
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

About the Role

University of Sussex is seeking a senior academic leader to take on the role of Head of School for Law, Politics and Sociology. This is a pivotal leadership position within the Faculty, offering the opportunity to guide a large and diverse academic community through its next phase of development.

The School brings together three dynamic disciplines—Law, Politics, and Sociology/Criminology—and plays a central role in delivering the University’s academic vision. As Head of School, you will work closely with the Executive Dean and contribute as a member of the Faculty Executive Team.

This role is both strategic and operational, requiring strong collaboration across academic departments, professional services, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment with institutional priorities.

Your Leadership Impact

In this role, you will:

 Strategic Direction
Shape and deliver the School’s long-term academic and research strategy
Align School priorities with wider Faculty and University goals
Respond proactively to changes in the higher education landscape

 Academic & Team Leadership
Foster a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing academic culture
Lead and develop academic and professional staff across disciplines
Promote collaboration, innovation, and interdisciplinary working

 Teaching & Student Experience
Ensure excellence in teaching and curriculum development
Enhance student engagement, satisfaction, and outcomes
Support innovative, research-led learning approaches

 Research & External Engagement
Strengthen the School’s research profile and impact
Encourage external partnerships and interdisciplinary collaboration
Support funding development and knowledge exchange initiatives

About You

We are looking for an experienced academic leader who can inspire and guide others in a complex and evolving environment.

You will typically:

  • Hold Professorial status (or equivalent seniority)
    Have a strong track record in research, teaching, and/or scholarship
    Demonstrate effective leadership, team management, and decision-making skills
    Be committed to inclusive, collaborative, and values-driven leadership
    Understand the challenges and opportunities facing the UK higher education sector

About the School

The School of Law, Politics and Sociology is a vibrant and research-intensive academic community with strong national and international recognition.

 Law

  • Known for strengths in human rights, environmental law, trade law, and legal technology
    High-quality research output, with a strong REF performance
    Large and diverse student body with a supportive learning environment

Politics

  • Home to leading research centres such as the Sussex European Institute
    Expertise in governance, corruption, political behaviour, and migration
    Excellent research and teaching performance with strong student feedback

 Sociology & Criminology

  • Focus areas include social theory, inequality, migration, and health
    Strong impact record with highly rated REF case studies
    Active postgraduate and interdisciplinary research community

Across all disciplines, the School is recognised for its research excellence, student support, and collaborative culture.

Why Take on This Role?

  • Lead a well-established, high-performing academic School
    Influence strategy at Faculty and University level
    Work within a research-led, globally engaged institution
    Be part of a supportive and inclusive academic environment
    Enjoy a campus located near the South Downs National Park

Additional Information

  • This role is open to internal applicants only
    The appointment is for a 5-year term alongside your substantive academic post
    Interviews will be conducted in person

For informal discussions, you may contact Rosie Cox.

Useful UK Government Resources

For broader context on higher education, leadership roles, and working in the UK, the following official resources may be helpful:

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