Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic)

We are the University of Cumbria, for and from Cumbria and our localities, rooted in and serving our communities.  We are a university for our region. We were established in Cumbria for a reason, and this drives us: to increase higher education participation in our county, to address higher-level skills and sector needs and most importantly to positively impact on the lives and livelihoods of individuals across our communities.

Providing diverse routes into higher education, into and through employment, the University of Cumbria specialise in portfolio and programmes aligned to a range of learner needs and types delivered with and through a range of strategic employer, educational and stakeholder partnerships. With an emphasis on work-based and flexible learning options, they expect to deliver an excellent learning experience, environment, and outcomes for all their students, underpinned by their applied research and professional practice.

The University of Cumbria are now seeking a DVC (Academic) to provide visible, strategic leadership to the academic community across the portfolio and programmes and, as a significant member of the university’s Executive team, ensure delivery of the Academic Strategy in support of their Towards 2030 strategic framework. You will provide leadership as we develop our Faculty structure; work closely with senior colleagues to develop and grow the academic portfolio; take responsibility, supported by the Academic Registrar, for the quality of the academic offer; and ensure sustainable and significant improvements in student outcomes.

To be successful you will demonstrate experience of outstanding, strategic leadership and management in higher education and a track record of delivering high-quality academic performance. You will have significant experience in strategic planning, policy development and change management, with the ability to evidence delivering positive impact and outcomes across an institution. With a good understanding of the major influences on institutional success and a solid appreciation of the expectations and motivations of students and staff, you will be an excellent communicator, have a positive, collaborative approach and be able to represent the university externally and act as a senior ambassador

This is an exciting time to join the University as we focus on delivering our refreshed Towards 2030 strategy.  If our values resonate and you are committed to excellence and meeting the evolving needs of our students and communities, and would welcome an informal conversation to learn more about the role, please contact Emma Wilkins at emma@dixonwalter.co.uk