At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Department of Entrepreneurship & Strategy, fostering innovation and academic excellence.
- Company: Lancaster University, a vibrant community committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, additional allowances, sabbatical opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with excellent career progression and a commitment to wellbeing.
- Why this job: Shape the future of entrepreneurship education and make a lasting impact on students and faculty.
- Qualifications: Current academic staff with a strong vision for leadership and departmental growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: Senior Salary (Full-Time/Secondment)
Closing Date: Wednesday 03 June 2026
Interview Date: Monday 29 June 2026
Reference: 0458-26
Overview
We are seeking to appoint a Head of Department (HoD) for Entrepreneurship & Strategy from 1st August 2026 due to the current HoD’s tenure ending on 31st July 2026. This role is available only to current employees of Lancaster University.
Responsibilities
The HoD provides academic leadership for the Department, managing staff and activities, and representing the Department to the Faculty and the University. The HoD will encourage and develop excellence in teaching, research and engagement across colleagues.
Reward and Recognition
In recognition of the role, you will receive a non-superannuable salary supplement equal to one increment on your salary scale (professorial) or two increments (Senior Lecturer/Senior Teaching Fellow) and a Head of Department annual allowance, both non-superannuable. Successful performance may consolidate this allowance into salary on a permanent basis.
Sabbatical
HoDs are eligible, at the end of their term, to be considered for an additional sabbatical/AREL leave term, to be taken in agreement with the Dean.
Term of Office
The initial term is four years, potentially renewable for a further term within the University’s HoD and Associate Dean appointment process. On completion of your term(s) you will revert to your substantive position.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must be existing members of academic staff within the Department of Entrepreneurship & Strategy and have a contract of employment at the University extending for at least four years upon appointment. Normally the position is at professorial level; applicants at Senior Lecturer or Senior Teaching Fellow levels may be considered on an exceptional basis.
Application Process
Complete the online application process on Stonefish, submitting an expression of interest, a short CV, and a statement outlining your vision for the Department and approach to the role. Include a paragraph under each of the five headings of HoD Desirable Skills articulating your experience and desired professional development, and a tailored statement for staff outlining your vision and ambition for the department. Submit your statement at the time of application.
Closing date: Wednesday 5th June 2026. Interviews: Monday 29th June 2026.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Professor Claire Leitch, Dean – c.leitch@lancaster.ac.uk. For further details of the HoD reward or appointment processes, contact Kay Bowen, Faculty Officer – k.bowen1@lancaster.ac.uk.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity and equality of opportunity. We support family‑friendly, flexible and agile working policies on an individual basis.
Benefits
Find out what it’s like to work at Lancaster University, including information on employee benefits, support networks and our policies and facilities for a family‑friendly workplace. The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address inequality in higher education while promoting the wellbeing of all colleagues.
Head of Dept, Entrepreneurship & Strategy — Lead Innovation employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. As the Head of Department for Entrepreneurship & Strategy, you will benefit from competitive remuneration, opportunities for sabbaticals, and a commitment to diversity and equality, all within a vibrant academic community in the picturesque setting of Bailrigg, Lancaster.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Dept, Entrepreneurship & Strategy — Lead Innovation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to colleagues and connections within Lancaster University. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the HoD role that you won’t find in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by thinking about your vision for the department. Jot down key points on how you’d encourage excellence in teaching and research. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your leadership style! Think about examples from your past where you’ve successfully managed teams or projects. We love to see how you inspire others!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to submit your expression of interest and CV there.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Dept, Entrepreneurship & Strategy — Lead Innovation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Role:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. Understand what the Head of Department role entails and think about how your experience aligns with those responsibilities. This will help you tailor your application to show us why you're the perfect fit!
Craft Your Vision Statement:Your vision for the department is crucial! Make sure to articulate your ideas clearly in your statement. We want to see your ambition and how you plan to lead the team towards excellence in teaching and research. Be bold and let your personality shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When addressing the HoD Desirable Skills, be specific about your past experiences. Use examples that demonstrate your leadership, innovation, and engagement with colleagues. This is your chance to show us how you've made an impact in your current role!
Submit Through Our Website:Don't forget to complete your application through Stonefish! Ensure all your documents are submitted on time, including your CV and tailored statements. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table, so make it easy for us to find your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to clearly articulate your vision for the Department of Entrepreneurship & Strategy. Think about how you can encourage excellence in teaching and research, and be ready to discuss specific strategies that align with the university's goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Department, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your approach to fostering collaboration and innovation among colleagues, as this will resonate well with the interview panel.
✨Tailor Your Application
Make sure your application materials are tailored specifically to the role. When discussing your experience, directly relate it to the five headings of HoD Desirable Skills mentioned in the job description. This shows that you understand the requirements and have the relevant experience.
✨Engage in Informal Discussions
Don’t hesitate to reach out for informal discussions about the role before the interview. Contacting Professor Claire Leitch or Kay Bowen can provide valuable insights into the department's current challenges and opportunities, which you can then address during your interview.
