At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Marketing Department, inspiring excellence in teaching and research.
- Company: Lancaster University, a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership allowances, and potential sabbatical opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive community committed to equality and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of marketing education and make a lasting impact.
- Qualifications: Current academic staff member with experience at professorial or senior lecturer level.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: Senior Salary (Full‑time/Secondment)
Closing Date: Wednesday 10 June 2026
Overview
We are seeking to appoint a Head of Department (HoD) for Marketing from 1st August 2026, as the current HoD’s tenure ends on 31st July 2026. The role is a secondment of a senior leadership position within the Department, and applications are invited from academic colleagues within the Department of Marketing. Applicants will typically be at professorial level, though Senior Lecturers and Senior Teaching Fellows are also welcome.
Responsibilities
- Provide academic leadership for the Department, managing and developing its staff and activities.
- Represent the Department to the Faculty and the University.
- Encourage and develop excellence in teaching, research and engagement across colleagues.
Further details of the role are included in the HoD ‘Description of Desirable Skills’ (Person Specification) and HoD ‘Role and Major Areas of Responsibility’ (Job Description) documents.
Rewards and Recognition
- Non‑superannuable salary supplement equivalent to one increment on the salary scale for professors, or two increments for Senior Lecturers/Senior Teaching Fellows.
- Potential consolidation of the allowance into salary upon successful performance.
- Annual non‑superannuable Head of Department allowance.
For further details on the HoD reward or appointment processes, please contact Kay Bowen, Faculty Officer (k.bowen1@lancaster.ac.uk).
Sabbatical
HoDs are eligible to be considered for an additional term of sabbatical/AREL leave at the end of their period of office, to be taken in agreement with the Dean.
Term of Office
Initial secondment term of four years, potentially renewable for one further term within the University’s HoD and Associate Dean appointment process. On completion of the secondment term(s), the appointment reverts automatically to the substantive position.
Application Requirements
- Applicants must be current employees of Lancaster University with contracts extending for at least four years upon appointment.
- Applicants must be an existing member of academic staff within the Department of Marketing.
To apply, complete the online application process on Stonefish. Submit an expression of interest, your vision for the Department, and a short CV. Include a paragraph of text under each of the five headings of HoD Desirable Skills, articulating approach, relevant experience, and desired professional development. Submit the tailored statement for staff at the time of application.
Closing date: Wednesday 5th June 2026. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 16th June 2026.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community, irrespective of age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability, or sexual orientation. We are committed to promoting diversity, equality of opportunity, and family‑friendly, flexible, and agile working policies.
Contact Professor Claire Leitch, Dean – c.leitch@lancaster.ac.uk
Additional Information
All advertised roles are UK based, and the University recognises and celebrates good employment practice addressing inequality in higher education while promoting the wellbeing of all colleagues.
Documents Job Description and Person Specification documents are available upon request.
Head of Department - Marketing - 0446-26 employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises academic excellence and employee wellbeing. As the Head of Department for Marketing, you will benefit from competitive salary supplements, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion. Located in the picturesque setting of Bailrigg, Lancaster, the university fosters a collaborative atmosphere where innovative teaching and research thrive, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department - Marketing - 0446-26
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to colleagues and connections within the Department of Marketing. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the Department's current projects and challenges. Show us that you’re not just a fit for the role, but that you’ve got a vision for where we can go next!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Articulate your vision for the Department clearly and confidently. We want to hear how you plan to lead and inspire the team, so make sure you’ve got your ideas polished.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Lancaster University.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department - Marketing - 0446-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Role:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description and person specification. We want to see how your experience aligns with the responsibilities and skills outlined, so make sure you understand what’s expected of the Head of Department.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send in a generic CV and cover letter! We’re looking for a tailored statement that highlights your vision for the department and how you meet the desirable skills. Use specific examples from your experience to show us what you can bring to the table.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your expression of interest and CV, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Make sure each paragraph under the HoD Desirable Skills headings is focused and relevant.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to complete the online application process on Stonefish. It’s super straightforward, and applying through our website ensures your application gets to us without any hiccups. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to articulate your vision for the Department of Marketing. Think about how you can encourage excellence in teaching and research. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you have a clear plan for its future.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the HoD ‘Description of Desirable Skills’ and ‘Role and Major Areas of Responsibility’ documents. Understanding these details will help you tailor your responses during the interview and demonstrate that you’re the right fit for the position.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and how you manage and develop staff. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or improved departmental activities. This will highlight your capability to provide academic leadership.
✨Engage with Diversity and Inclusion
Since the university values diversity and inclusion, be ready to discuss how you would promote these principles within the department. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that support equality and create an inclusive environment.
