Vice Chancellor 

For almost 200 years, York St John University has transformed lives through the power of education in the heart of historic York. 

Originally founded to give people from all backgrounds the chance to access learning – our work to widen participation, release human potential and promote social justice remains integral to our modern-day mission.

In recent years the University has enjoyed a variety of successes.  We are among the top 30 universities nationally for both overall student satisfaction (National Student Survey 2019) and for the percentage of our graduates who are in education or employment within six months of graduating. We have seen growth in student numbers by diversifying our academic portfolio at undergraduate level and moving into new markets. 

With a recently launched seven-year Strategy in place, a new brand introduced and major initiatives including a sister campus in London and a new Creative Centre opening on our York campus in 2021, the foundations have been laid for a bold and exciting future.   

Now, we are seeking a new Vice Chancellor with the leadership experience and academic credibility to steer us through the next stage of our journey and sustain our strategic progress.  

By operating proactively in response to a complex external environment and consolidating a period of significant organisational change, the appointee will create the conditions for the institution to thrive: Capitalising on new ways of working, increasing collaboration and energising our community through a strong and consistent set of values. Reporting to the Governing Body and working with an ambitious Executive Board, they will bring our strategic objectives to life and consistently enhance our performance across the coming years. 

The Vice Chancellor will show the breadth of experience to create an outstanding environment for students and staff, further develop relationships in the region, and raise the University’s profile externally. They will drive a relentless focus on inspiring learning, impactful research and creating clear career pathways for our students.

Our ideal candidate will be a strategic leader with academic pedigree and senior management experience, gained in either the Higher Education sector or a relevant knowledge-intensive environment. They will be emotionally intelligent, visible and accessible: a supportive team-builder and good listener with the ability to unite a community behind common aspirations. Resilience will be critical as will a combination of patience, ambition and drive. Sound financial management is essential. 

In a period of unprecedented change and challenge in the Higher Education sector, the appointee will bring a sense of stability, from which the University can confidently continue to innovate and grow in accordance with its ethos and culture. This is a unique opportunity in one of the UK’s most popular cities to significantly shape and influence our University’s future and help us realise its huge potential.

For more information, including details of how to apply, please visit www.minervasearch.com/yorksj or email yorksj@minervasearch.com.   The closing date for receipt of applications is midday (GMT) on Friday 1st November 2019.