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- Tasks: Lead a diverse academic community and shape the future of SSEES.
- Company: UCL, a top global university committed to academic excellence and social impact.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a globally respected School and make a real impact in higher education.
- Qualifications: Proven academic leadership, strong research profile, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
UCL is a world-leading, global university, consistently ranked among the top ten universities worldwide. With a diverse community of over 50,000 students and 18,000 staff from more than 150 countries, UCL is committed to academic excellence, social impact, and tackling the world’s most pressing challenges through research, education, and innovation.
Founded in 1915, the UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies (SSEES) is one of the world’s leading centres for the study of Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, the Baltics, Russia, the Caucasus and Central Asia. Home to more than 80 expert academics and over 1,000 students from 60+ countries, SSEES offers a distinctive, interdisciplinary academic environment spanning Economics & Business, Politics & Sociology, History, and Languages & Cultures. Our work addresses urgent global issues including geopolitics, international security, migration, populism, economic transformation, and cultural memory, supported by the internationally renowned SSEES Library and a vibrant programme of research and public engagement.
We are seeking an outstanding academic leader to join UCL as Director (Head of Department) of SSEES. This is a high-profile leadership role at the heart of one of UCL’s most globally engaged Schools. Reporting to the Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Humanities, the Director will provide strategic, academic and operational leadership, shaping the future direction of SSEES while championing academic freedom, collegiality and inclusion.
You will play a key role in:
- Leading and inspiring a large, diverse academic and professional services community
- Strengthening SSEES’ global research profile and interdisciplinary collaborations
- Delivering an outstanding, inclusive student experience
- Representing SSEES and UCL to international partners, funders, alumni and external stakeholders
- Contributing to Faculty- and UCL-wide strategy as a member of UCL’s senior academic leadership community
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership across research, education, enterprise and external engagement
- Champion excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange
- Lead departmental planning, budgets and resources in alignment with UCL strategy
- Foster a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture for staff and students
- Oversee REF, TEF, KEF and NSS performance and continuous improvement
- Build and sustain strong internal and external partnerships globally
- Act as an ambassador for SSEES, the Faculty of Arts & Humanities and UCL
About you
You will be an internationally recognised academic with a strong track record of leadership, scholarship and educational excellence, and the credibility to lead a complex, interdisciplinary School. You will bring:
- A proven record of academic leadership and people management
- An established international research profile, with outstanding publications and evidence of research income
- Experience of managing budgets, resources and risk within a regulated environment
- Excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills
- A collaborative, inclusive leadership style aligned with UCL’s values and EDI priorities
- Strategic vision and the ability to lead change in a dynamic global context
Why Join Us
This is a rare opportunity to lead a globally respected School at a pivotal moment for the region it studies and for higher education more broadly. UCL offers a stimulating, inclusive environment, excellent professional support, and the chance to shape the future of one of the world’s foremost area-studies institutions.
What we offer
- 41 days’ holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase 5 additional days’ annual leave
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan, and immigration loan
- Relocation support for eligible posts
- On-site nursery and gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Staff Support Service (employee assistance programme)
We will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible, and job share basis wherever possible. This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 40% onsite per week. Visa sponsorship - This role meets the requirements for a Skilled Worker certificate of sponsorship or Global Talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.
Director, School of Slavonic and East European Studies employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
Contact Detail:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, School of Slavonic and East European Studies
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at UCL, especially those in SSEES. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching UCL’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to our mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! You’ll need to demonstrate your vision for SSEES and how you plan to inspire a diverse academic community. Make it compelling!
✨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 follow the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, School of Slavonic and East European Studies
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Director role at SSEES. Highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with UCL's values and mission.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t hold back on sharing your accomplishments! Use concrete examples of your academic leadership, research contributions, and any successful collaborations that demonstrate your fit for this high-profile position.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us easily see your qualifications and vision for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is received and considered promptly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key areas of research and education that SSEES focuses on. Brush up on current geopolitical issues, migration trends, and cultural studies relevant to Central and Eastern Europe. This will not only show your expertise but also your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with UCL’s values of inclusivity and collaboration. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led diverse teams or managed complex projects, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of community engagement by discussing how you would strengthen partnerships with international stakeholders. Be ready to share ideas on how to enhance the student experience and foster a positive culture within SSEES.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that reflect your strategic vision for the future of SSEES. Inquire about their current challenges, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, and how they envision the School evolving in the next few years. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in the role.
