Head of Department - Allied Health in Walsall

Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences

The University of Wolverhampton is seeking to appoint an outstanding academic to join the newly established, and growing, School of Allied & Public Health Sciences as the Head of the Department with oversight of Paramedical Sciences and, in the future, other HCPC regulated programmes of study. This is an important leadership role that will support the School to deliver against the University 2035 strategy of delivering world leading education, that is informed by research, and to realise our vision of creating opportunity, transforming lives, and delivering a more inclusive, productive and sustainable society. The School specifically aspires to address significant health and societal challenges with an aim to maximise activity and societal participation.

This role ensures that the School & Department contributes to the Faculty’s reputation for education, research excellence, knowledge transfer, and societal impact. It bridges academic scholarship with real-world application, helping universities meet national priorities for the NHS long term plan, innovation and regional economic development.

As the Head of Department with oversight of Paramedical sciences, you will:

• To provide academic leadership to ensure the school delivers excellence across its full portfolio of activities, driving sustained improvement in B3 and NSS performance.
• To lead on the academic development and enhancement of the Department’s offer, creating new employer-led provisions that meet the needs of emerging markets.
• To lead, manage, and support Department colleagues, including the school management team, through effective recruitment, development, coaching, motivation, and performance management, while acting as a role model for the University's values and behaviours.
• To contribute to the school leadership team and active shaping of the development of wider plans and ambitions.
• To create an inclusive and supportive environment in which staff and students can thrive, promoting equality, embracing diversity, and prioritising well-being.
• To foster a research and scholarship culture and appropriately build research and knowledge exchange capacity and capability.

We are particularly looking for an educational leader with a proven track record of curriculum innovation in a field aligned with the Department’s educational portfolio and a track record of successful partnership working with NHS organisations. You will also demonstrate experience in portfolio and partnership growth and have excellent communication and influencing skills to build strong strategic partnership internally and externally.

The University of Wolverhampton is a civic University with a proud history of widening access and delivering excellence in teaching, research, and business engagement. We have strong educational and research links with our local NHS partners, civic bodies, and public health teams in Wolverhampton and Walsall. Our educational programmes and CPD portfolio supports the local health economy and makes a transformative impact through collaboration and appropriate public engagement. This is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on education, research and knowledge exchange at a university that values innovation, inclusivity, and excellence.

University of Wolverhampton Recruitment Statement

Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom

The University of Wolverhampton recognises and protects the rights to freedom of speech and academic freedom, within the law.

We are committed to ensuring that lawful expression of ideas, beliefs and opinions — including those that may be controversial or unpopular — does not result in disadvantage in recruitment, employment or progression.

An offer of employment at the University of Wolverhampton will never be denied based on an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Wolverhampton is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

We Are Committed To

• preventing unlawful discrimination and harassment.
• promoting equality of opportunity.
• fostering an inclusive environment where colleagues are treated with dignity and respect.

We strive to create a workplace in which colleagues have the confidence and freedom to be themselves, while working professionally and in accordance with equality legislation and University policies.

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

We recognise that applicants may use AI tools to support the preparation of their applications. However, submissions must reflect your own experience, achievements and motivations.

We want to understand what you personally bring to the role. Please ensure your application accurately represents your own voice and capabilities.

Flexible Working

We recognise the value of flexible working arrangements and are open to discussion wherever possible.

Your Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Standard Life Pension scheme – with employer contribution of up to 12% to the University's defined contribution scheme.
• Long Service Recognition – £200 gift voucher, certificate, and afternoon tea with Vice Chancellor for 25 & 40 years of service.
• Free Will Writing Service – Complimentary will drafting for employees and their partners.
• IT & Mobile Discounts – EE Perk (20% off for family & friends) & software discounts.
• Supporting Your Health & Wellbeing
• Wellbeing and Mental Health Support – 24/7 access to EAP service, free counselling sessions, wellbeing support resources and Occupational Health Service.
• Gym memberships discounts – at our Walsall Campus and discounts at WV Active sites in Wolverhampton.
• Eyecare Support – Free eVoucher for eye tests and glasses contribution.
• Flu Vouchers – Free flu vaccinations for staff.
• Paycare Health Benefit Plan – Covers optical, dental, physiotherapy, and personal accident insurance.
• Chaplaincy & Prayer Rooms – Access to multi‑faith chaplaincy services.
• Valuing You
• Generous Annual Leave (see table below)
• Flexible & Agile Working – Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements.
• Free On‑site Parking – available across campuses.
• Cycle Benefits Scheme – Save up to 42% on a bike & accessories via salary sacrifice.
• Tusker Electric Vehicle Scheme – Electric cars via salary sacrifice.
• Employee Discounts – Savings on groceries, fashion, and entertainment.
• Travel Discounts – Up to 10% off holidays through Sodexo Circles.

Training and Development

• Staff Network and Inclusion – Access to support networks and events with our LGBTQ+, Global Majority, Disability, and Women's networks.
• Library Access – Staff have access to books and resources at our onsite libraries.
• Staff Scholarship Scheme – Funding for part‑time higher education, up to PhD level.
• Leadership and Management Development – Access to training opportunities to support you with advancing in your career.