Lancaster University is seeking an outstanding leader for the post of Vice-Chancellor to succeed Professor Mark E. Smith after eight successful years in post. Lancaster was awarded TEF Gold in 2017, gained a top 10 position in all major UK league tables, and a top ten student satisfaction score of 88% in the NSS. The University has continued to demonstrate an internationally recognised focus on excellence. This is an opportunity for an exceptional individual to further build upon the University’s ambitious, inter-disciplinary and innovative approach.

With just over 14,750 students and an income of £288M, Lancaster combines a cutting edge and international outlook, with a long-standing focus on community and civic engagement. The University’s vision is to be globally significant – a leader in higher education that provides the highest quality research and teaching, and engages locally and internationally on the issues and debates of the day and the future. The breadth of Lancaster’s international partnerships in Ghana, China, Malaysia and Germany, mean that the University is uniquely connected across the globe. 

Driven by research and the opportunities for stimulating learning, Lancaster seeks to inform and change practice and thinking worldwide. The University’s collaborative and community led approach is also further supported by its collegiate structure. Lancaster is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes diversity of thought, approach and background in all colleagues.This focus on access to excellence for all has also been supported by working successfully in partnership in the UK, including the recent establishment of UA92 based in Manchester. In addition the significant capital investment programme has made Lancaster’s campus one of the most attractive in the UK. Lancaster’s Health Innovation Campus opens in 2020 and there are major investments in the Management School, Sport facilities and the Library underway. 

Lancaster’s new Vice-Chancellor will bring strategic vision, inspiring leadership and innovation to enable sustainable institutional development. They will bring significant academic credibility to the role, as well as a focus on external engagement, alongside an open, inclusive and collegiate approach. Evidence of financial and operational acumen will also be of the utmost importance. Candidates will demonstrate the ability to drive forwards global engagement, whilst supporting an enterprising and innovative culture. The appointed candidate will celebrate diversity and be committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and students. 

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to Lancaster University on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference KAEOB. Alternatively telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by noon on Tuesday 3 Spetember 2019.