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- Tasks: Lead research and knowledge exchange initiatives within a vibrant creative community.
- Company: Leeds School of Arts, part of Leeds Beckett University, at the heart of a dynamic cultural city.
- Benefits: Join a supportive academic environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of research in arts while making a positive impact on communities.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership in research, understanding of the UK research landscape, and ambassadorial skills.
- Other info: Engage with a diverse team and contribute to a leading institution in knowledge exchange.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Leeds School of Arts is a significant creative community at the heart of one of the UK's most dynamic cultural cities. Bringing together over 3,000 students and 200 staff across art, design, architecture, film, music, performance and creative technologies, the School plays a central role in Leeds Beckett University and in the wider Leeds City Region.
At its centre sits the £90m Leeds School of Arts building – the University's largest ever capital investment – providing a distinctive environment for creative education and practice‐led research. The School is deeply embedded in the city's cultural and creative industries, with strong and established relationships across the regional ecosystem.
Leeds Beckett University is a modern, professional university with a clear civic mission to make a positive and decisive difference to people, communities and organisations. The University is financially stable and has established a leading position in knowledge exchange, ranking within the top quintile nationally alongside research‐intensive institutions.
This is a pivotal leadership role that will contribute to the University's research and knowledge exchange strategy, while providing strategic and operational leadership for research and knowledge exchange within the Leeds School of Arts. Reporting to the Dean and working closely with the Pro Vice‐Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange, and the Director of Research across the University, the postholder will play a central role in shaping the direction and development of research and knowledge exchange within the School.
As a leadership role within a collegiate and supportive academic environment, the School operates within a flat organisational structure. The role requires a hands‐on and engaged approach, working through influence and collaboration.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership for research and knowledge exchange within Leeds School of Arts.
- Shape the direction and development of research and knowledge exchange within the School.
- Support staff and students to develop and enhance their research activity.
- Collaborate closely with the Pro Vice‐Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange and the Director of Research across the University.
- Act as an ambassador for the School and articulate a clear and coherent narrative for research and knowledge exchange internally and externally.
Qualifications & Experience
- Strong international profile in research and knowledge exchange leadership.
- Clear understanding of the UK research landscape.
- Experience supporting others to develop research activity.
- Strong ambassadorial skills and a pragmatic, inclusive approach.
Application Information
Candidates should apply for this role through our retained advisors Networked at https://www.networkedpeople.com/lsa-research-director/. The deadline for receipt of applications is midnight on Tuesday 5th May 2026.
Informal questions regarding the post should be directed to Hamish Laing at Networked via hamish.laing@networkedpeople.com or +44 (0)7861 329463.
Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange in Leeds employer: Leeds Beckett University
Contact Detail:
Leeds Beckett University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website that highlights your research and knowledge exchange projects. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate what you can bring to the table, especially for a role like Director of Research.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the institution and its culture. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with them. This will help you articulate why you’re the perfect fit for the Leeds School of Arts.
✨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, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this is a leadership position, emphasise your previous experiences in leading research initiatives and knowledge exchange. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to influence and collaborate effectively within a team.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure your narrative is easy to follow. This will help us understand your qualifications and vision for the role without getting lost in unnecessary details.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website as specified. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Leeds School of Arts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds Beckett University
✨Know Your Research Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current UK research landscape, especially in relation to creative arts. Be prepared to discuss recent trends and how they might impact Leeds School of Arts. This shows you’re not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director, your leadership approach is crucial. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully led teams or projects. Be ready to share how you foster collaboration and support others in their research activities.
✨Articulate Your Vision
Prepare to articulate a clear vision for research and knowledge exchange within the School. Think about how you would shape its direction and development. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and alignment with the university's mission.
✨Engage with the Community
Since the role involves acting as an ambassador, consider how you would engage with both internal and external stakeholders. Have some ideas ready on how to strengthen relationships within the cultural and creative industries in Leeds.