At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a new department in Computing, Security and Mathematics, shaping its academic direction and success.
- Company: Royal Holloway, University of London, known for its vibrant academic community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, training opportunities, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Located in beautiful Egham, near Windsor Great Park and London.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in higher education and foster innovation in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in higher education and a strong research background.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 85000 € per year.
Royal Holloway, University of London, is seeking exceptional candidates for the position of Head of the Department of Computing, Security and Mathematics. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced academic leader to help shape a new department from three vibrant, ambitious and internationally recognised disciplinary groups. The Department of Computing, Security and Mathematics is newly‑formed, comprising of disciplinary activities from the fields of Computer Science, Information Security and Mathematics. Our community comprises around 100 academic colleagues and over 1,000 postdoctoral researchers, postgraduate and undergraduate students.
Our research areas include:
- Algorithms and Complexity
- Programming Languages and Systems
- Cryptography (Security of)
- People and Society in a Digital World
- Systems Security
- Security of Smart Cards and Internet of Things
- Algebra and Number Theory
- Probability and Statistics
- Quantum Theory and Quantum Information
As Head of Department, you will translate the strategic ambitions of Royal Holloway’s RH2030s Strategy into clear, actionable departmental plans. You will lead their delivery and be responsible for the department’s academic direction, financial sustainability, operational effectiveness, and overall success. You will also be accountable for effective resource allocation, workforce planning and ensuring the department’s long‑term financial sustainability in line with University priorities.
Working closely with colleagues, you will ensure meaningful contributions to the University’s Strategic Performance Indicators (SPIs), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and Strategic Action Plans. You will shape the department’s disciplinary identity and future development in partnership with academic colleagues and Professional Service teams, ensuring that the department’s values, priorities and operating approach are aligned with our vision to be a University of Social Purpose.
You will also lead the effective planning, resource allocation and operational management, creating the conditions for innovation and excellence in research, education and student experience and outcomes. This includes oversight of student recruitment planning, promoting active student engagement and supporting continuous improvement informed by feedback such as NSS outcomes. You will ensure the department is fully prepared for external assessments including REF, TEF and KEF, working in close partnership with the Faculty Dean and Associate Deans.
You will foster a culture that reflects our mission - championing inclusion, belonging and a supportive environment for colleagues and students alike. You will provide clear, values‑led leadership and support the development, performance and wellbeing of academic staff, encouraging excellence, collaboration and accountability. As a part of the Faculty Executive, you will help strengthen collaboration across the Faculty of Science and maximise opportunities arising from the University’s new academic structures.
You will also ensure the Department operates in line with University policies and regulatory requirements, maintaining high standards of compliance in areas such as health and safety, ethics, data governance and codes of practice. This role represents a significant opportunity within one of the University’s newly established departments, offering the chance to create the conditions for exceptional performance across research, education, and external engagement.
Who we are looking for:
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong track record of leadership within higher education (e.g., prior head of department experience or equivalent).
- Excellence in research, evidenced by a world‑class publication record and successful grant capture.
- A track record of contribution to high‑quality education and student experience.
- Expertise that either complements or strengthens one of our existing areas of strength in research.
The post is based in our beautiful Egham campus in Surrey, near Windsor Great Park and within commuting distance of London. We also offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Training and Development opportunities
- Pension Scheme with generous employer contribution
- Various schemes including Cycle to Work, Season Ticket Loans, and help with the cost of eyesight testing
- Free parking
This position is not eligible for hybrid working. Royal Holloway is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), and encourages applications from all people regardless of age, disability, gender, marital status, parental status, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or trans status or history. More information on our structures and initiatives around EDI, including information on staff diversity networks, can be found on our Equality and Diversity Intranet page.
Professor and Head of Department of Computing, Security and Mathematics employer: Royal Holloway
Royal Holloway, University of London, is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, offering meaningful opportunities for professional growth and development. Located in the picturesque Egham campus, just a stone's throw from London, employees benefit from a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and various support schemes, all while contributing to a department that champions innovation and excellence in research and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Professor and Head of Department of Computing, Security and Mathematics
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in academia and industry. Attend conferences, seminars, or even local meet-ups related to computing, security, and mathematics. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your research, publications, and teaching experiences. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this as a conversation starter to demonstrate your impact in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to departments or universities you’re interested in. Express your enthusiasm and ask about upcoming opportunities. It shows initiative and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined application process that makes it easy for you to showcase your skills. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on the chance to join our vibrant community!
We think you need these skills to ace Professor and Head of Department of Computing, Security and Mathematics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Department. We want to see how you can contribute to our vision and values, so don’t hold back on showcasing your leadership skills and academic achievements!
Showcase Your Research Impact:As a candidate for this position, it’s crucial to demonstrate your excellence in research. Include details about your publication record and any successful grant captures. We’re looking for someone who can elevate our department’s research profile, so let us know how you’ve done that in the past!
Highlight Your Educational Contributions:Don’t forget to mention your contributions to high-quality education and student experience. We value candidates who can enhance our teaching and learning environment, so share examples of how you’ve positively impacted students in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Holloway
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the key areas mentioned in the job description, like algorithms, cryptography, and systems security. Brush up on recent developments in these fields and be ready to discuss how your expertise aligns with the department's goals.
✨Show Leadership Skills
As a potential Head of Department, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, focusing on your ability to foster collaboration and drive academic excellence.
✨Align with the Vision
Familiarise yourself with Royal Holloway’s RH2030s Strategy and think about how you can contribute to it. Be ready to discuss how you would translate strategic ambitions into actionable plans for the department, showcasing your vision for its future.
✨Engage with Inclusion and Wellbeing
Highlight your commitment to creating an inclusive environment. Prepare to discuss how you would support the wellbeing of staff and students, and how you plan to champion diversity within the department, aligning with the university's values.
