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- Tasks: Lead the Institute for Transport Studies, driving research and student education excellence.
- Company: University of Leeds, a prestigious institution with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape academic strategy and enhance your leadership skills.
- Other info: 12-month appointment from August 2026, ideal for ambitious academics.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a dynamic environment while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a strong track record in research or education.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Opportunity only open to internal candidates currently employed within the Institute for Transport Studies, University of Leeds.
Are you an experienced and ambitious academic looking for an exciting senior leadership position? Do you have the ability to provide the leadership and strategic vision necessary to lead the Institute in successfully developing and delivering its plans through inspiring, motivating and developing staff to achieve their full potential? Are you passionate about delivering world-leading research and an exceptional student experience in an international and interdisciplinary context?
You will lead and manage the Institute for Transport Studies (ITS), maximising strategic opportunities arising from the changing landscape of higher education and the University’s strategic plan, whilst leading and delivering excellence across research, innovation and student education. You will be an active member of the University’s Leadership Forum and of the Executive Group of the Faculty of Environment and Social Sciences, promoting a coordinated approach to delivering innovative strategic academic development.
You will be taking on a significant leadership role and must be able to lead with a clear vision, engaging others across the Institute, Faculty and University. You will have the leadership skills, ambition and creativity to take forward the development and delivery of the Institute’s academic strategy and objectives. You will thrive on working collaboratively in a dynamic environment to enhance the world-leading reputation of the Institute with a focus on quality and excellence. Academic credibility is essential. You will have a sustained track record of excellence in research and/or student education, combined with excellent skills in team working and collaboration.
The appointment will be from 1 August 2026 – 31 July 2027 (12 months).
To apply, you should apply for this role via an expression of interest of no more than two A4 pages evidencing how you believe your existing knowledge and experience equips you to carry out the role. Please also include a curriculum vitae.
Interim Director of the Institute for Transport Studies in Leeds employer: University of Leeds
Contact Detail:
University of Leeds Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Director of the Institute for Transport Studies in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to colleagues and peers within the Institute for Transport Studies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the role that you won't find in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to discuss your vision for the Institute, make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for world-leading research and student experience. Let them see how excited you are about the future!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tough questions! Think about how you would lead and inspire your team. Be ready to share examples of how you've motivated others in the past and how you plan to do it in this role.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about the opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Director of the Institute for Transport Studies in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and the Institute. We want to see how your passion for research and student experience aligns with our goals at the Institute for Transport Studies.
Tailor Your Expression of Interest: Don’t just send a generic application! We’re looking for specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your leadership skills and strategic vision. Make it personal and relevant to the role.
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working with various teams, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share instances where you’ve successfully worked with others to achieve common goals – we love teamwork!
Keep It Concise and Clear: You’ve got two A4 pages to make your case, so be clear and concise. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the point while showcasing your qualifications and experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Leeds
✨Know Your Institute
Make sure you’re well-versed in the current projects and strategic goals of the Institute for Transport Studies. Familiarise yourself with recent research outputs and how they align with the University’s broader objectives. This will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your leadership experience that demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate teams. Think about times when you’ve successfully led initiatives or projects, and be ready to discuss how you can apply those skills to enhance the Institute’s reputation.
✨Engage with the Vision
Articulate a clear vision for the Institute that aligns with its mission and the University’s strategic plan. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach developing and delivering this vision, and how you would engage staff and stakeholders in the process.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a set of insightful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the future direction of the Institute or how you can best support the Faculty’s goals. It shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.