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- Tasks: Lead the School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences and inspire a thriving academic community.
- Company: Health Sciences University, a values-led institution shaping the future of health education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive university culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in health education and workforce development on a global scale.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in higher education and deep understanding of health systems.
- Other info: Join a diverse community committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 53700 - 62900 ÂŁ per year.
ÂŁ62,163 - ÂŁ73,992 per annum
Full-time, permanent
Bournemouth (occasional travel to London campus, partner institutions and some international travel may be required)
About Health Sciences University (HSU)
HSU is an ambitious, values-led health sciences university shaping the future of education, clinical care, and applied research across Bournemouth, London and beyond. With over 2,000 students and 300 staff, we are a connected, purpose-driven community committed to improving health outcomes and strengthening the health and care workforce. Our CQC-registered clinics deliver around 90,000 patient visits each year, giving students unparalleled real-world experience and creating meaningful community impact. Partnership working is central to HSU’s identity - we collaborate closely with the NHS, health and care organisations, professional bodies, employers, and international partners to respond rapidly to workforce needs and shared system priorities.
About the School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences (HRS)
The School of HRS is home to a diverse suite of allied health, sport and rehabilitation disciplines, underpinned by more than a century of health‑education heritage across HSU’s founding institutions. As the University’s specialist hub for clinical education, rehabilitation sciences, and interprofessional practice, the School plays a vital role in developing the practitioners, clinicians and leaders our health systems need. Our programmes span undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeship and CPD routes, shaped in partnership with employers, regulators, service‑user groups, and clinical partners. With growing research strengths in applied health sciences, rehabilitation innovation, patient experience, and workforce development, HRS has significant potential for expansion in both education and research impact. Working collaboratively with NHS trusts, integrated care systems, independent providers, local authorities, and international institutions, the School is deeply connected to healthcare delivery and committed to improving lives through applied learning, clinical excellence and innovation.
The Role
This is a rare opportunity to lead a School with real momentum, maturity and strategic significance. As Head of HRS, you will:
- Set the strategic direction and inspire a thriving academic and clinical education community.
- Champion HRS’s ethos of compassion, professionalism, inclusion and real‑world impact.
- Strengthen our role as a leader in allied health and rehabilitation education.
- Expand high‑quality, employer‑focused programmes across UG, PG, CPD, apprenticeship, clinical education and transnational markets.
- Drive excellence in student experience, academic quality, clinical placements, and regulatory compliance.
- Grow the School’s research, innovation and knowledge‑exchange activity.
- Build influential partnerships with NHS, care providers, professional bodies and international collaborators.
- Ensure effective stewardship of people, budgets, and performance, modelling values‑based leadership.
This role demands vision, agility and deep sector insight. You will work closely with senior leaders, Heads of Schools and Professional Services colleagues to translate strategic ambition into operational excellence and outstanding student and graduate outcomes.
Who We’re Looking For
This position is ideal for an experienced academic leader who is motivated by impact and energised by possibility. You will understand the changing landscape of health and rehabilitation, and you will be able to translate strategic vision into actions that benefit students, staff, partners and communities. You will bring:
- A successful track record of leadership in higher education, health professions education or clinical/rehabilitation‑focused disciplines.
- Experience of programme innovation and portfolio growth across UG, PG, CPD or clinical education routes.
- Deep understanding of UK and international health systems, workforce priorities, regulatory environments and PSRB expectations.
- Proven ability to build strong strategic partnerships (NHS, care sector, regulators, employers, local authorities, international institutions).
- Excellent people leadership, change management capability, and financial acumen.
- A commitment to compassionate leadership, inclusion, student success and evidence‑based practice.
What We Offer
The opportunity to shape the future of health and rehabilitation education from a School with strong strategic positioning and exceptional potential for growth. A supportive, values‑driven university culture with genuine scope to innovate in education, research and enterprise. Competitive salary, benefits and professional development opportunities. A platform to influence health and care workforce development locally, nationally and globally.
How to apply
Please view the job description and person specification here, and then submit your application form, CV and a cover letter addressing how you meet the role requirements via our website https://www.hsu.ac.uk/about/join-us/
Closing date: 1st March 2026.
Interviews: 13th March 2026 (in Bournemouth). Shortlisting and interviews will follow HSU’s Recruitment Policy and Procedure, with a commitment to fair and transparent selection. Informal enquiries are warmly welcomed - please contact Sharon Potter, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Sharon.Potter@hsu.ac.uk to arrange a conversation.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
HSU is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We actively encourage applications from under‑represented groups and are dedicated to accessible recruitment practices in line with our policies. We are a committed to having a diverse and inclusive culture which offers equality and opportunity for all. We operate Disability Confident and Mindful Employer schemes and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working. We operate a Guaranteed Interview scheme for applicants who are serving or who have served in the Armed Forces. This post will be subject to an Enhanced/Basic DBS check.
Head in Bournemouth employer: Professor Doctor Obi
Contact Detail:
Professor Doctor Obi Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head in Bournemouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the health and education sectors. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to get your name out there. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the institution and its values. Understand their mission and how you can contribute to their goals. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their vision – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Get comfortable discussing your achievements and how they relate to the role. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time for the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our community at HSU. Let’s make an impact together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head in Bournemouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Head of School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences role entails. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and requirements that resonate with your experience.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal and specific to HSU. Talk about how your values align with theirs and how your past experiences can contribute to their mission of improving health outcomes.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This role is all about leadership, so don’t hold back! Use examples from your previous roles to demonstrate your ability to inspire teams, drive change, and build partnerships. We want to see your impact!
Apply Through Our Website: When you're ready to submit your application, make sure you do it through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Professor Doctor Obi
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of the School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences. Familiarise yourself with HSU's mission, values, and recent developments in health education. This will help you articulate how your vision aligns with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your experience in building partnerships and driving innovation in health professions education, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges in a dynamic environment. Think about specific scenarios where you've had to make tough decisions or implement change, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the institution. Inquire about their strategic goals for the School, how they measure success, and what challenges they foresee in the coming years. This shows you're not just interested in the position but also in contributing to their future.
