Head of the School of Arts

Kingston School of Art (KSA) has a strong heritage. From its origins in the late 19th Century until 1970, when it merged with what was then Kingston Polytechnic, KSA established an exceptional reputation, and it has become one of the UK’s leading art and design educational institutions. This is reflected by the influence of its globally distributed and celebrated alumni, its subject rankings, research performance, and industry and student awards, and by the leading brands and institutions that have chosen to work with it. The University is dedicated to excellence and high impact in research and knowledge exchange through a variety of individual cutting-edge projects and the development of multi-disciplinary Knowledge Exchange and Research Institutes.

KSA is currently seeking to appoint a new Head of its School of Arts. The School of Arts is one of three Schools in KSA, the other two being the School of Design and the School of Creative and Cultural Industries. There are four Departments in the School of Arts – Architecture and Landscape, Film and Photography, Fine Art and Performing Arts. As a senior member of the Faculty, the successful candidate will be responsible for providing inspiring leadership across the Schools academic community, at the same time driving advances in teaching, research and knowledge exchange. Central to this will be integrating the University’s ambitious Town House Strategy, based on its nationally recognised Future Skills campaign.

Working with the Faculty Leadership Team, staff and students and in partnership with external stakeholders, the successful candidate will ensure the Schools’ priorities are aligned with the Faculty and University strategy. Previous experience of driving academic excellence, implementing change, and maximising student growth are essential.

Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston where we are continuing to strive to build a university where authentic inclusion and belonging is at its heart. Every one of our staff and students’ identities, backgrounds and diverse experiences makes us who we are - so harness and embrace yours by applying today. We welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities and those with disabilities. 

Kingston University is being assisted in its global search for this appointment by the executive search firm Society. For more information and to submit your application, please get in touch with Emily Payne via emily.payne@society-search.com, or follow the link below to download the Candidate Pack.

The deadline for receipt of applications is midday (GMT) on Monday, 06 January 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview on week commencing Monday, 27 January 2025.