Dean of the University of Southampton Business School

University of Southampton; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious UK university is seeking an exceptional academic leader to join as the Dean of its Business School. Responsibilities include shaping the School's future, driving excellence in research and education, and fostering a culture of inclusivity. The ideal candidate is an accomplished leader with a PhD, extensive experience in higher education, and a visible, collaborative leadership style. This role offers a competitive benefits package and a tenured position initially for five years with the possibility of extension.

Benefits

Membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme

Generous annual leave

Corporate healthcare

Subsidised fitness facilities

Staff discounts

Qualifications

• Proven record in research, education, and enterprise.
• Experience leading a faculty or similar complex environment.
• Strong communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Shape the future of the Business School and the University.
• Drive a commitment to excellence in research and teaching.
• Foster a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Inclusiveness promotion

Education

PhD or equivalent in a relevant field

Job description

Overview

Dean of the University of Southampton Business School. Shape our success. We are seeking an exceptional academic leader to join the University of Southampton as Dean of the University of Southampton Business School. The University is currently ranked 87th in the world*, and this role is pivotal to advancing our position further. Our University Strategy is built around a distinctive Triple Helix model, harnessing the combined power of our excellence in research, education, knowledge exchange, and enterprise. As Dean, you will draw on your academic credibility and inclusive leadership experience to shape the next chapter for the school, ensuring alignment with wider Faculty and University priorities.

This is a unique opportunity for an inspiring leader to build on our momentum, champion the achievements of our staff and students, and proactively forge new opportunities globally. You will model our values and lead with integrity, driving our commitment to excellence in all that we do, from providing a transformative student experience to delivering world‑class, impactful research and fostering an inclusive, collaborative community within and beyond the University.

About the School

The University of Southampton Business School is a dynamic, internationally recognised unit comprising six interdisciplinary departments: Accounting; Banking and Finance; Decision Analytics and Risk; Digital and Data‑Driven Marketing; Human Resource Management and Organisational Behaviour; and Strategy, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. Together, these departments deliver globally recognised research, education, knowledge exchange, and enterprise activities that address complex transnational challenges. Our interdisciplinary research strengths span sustainability, data analytics and artificial intelligence, leadership and governance, making sustainable impacts that shape academia, public policy, and industry worldwide. Ranked among the top 25% of UK business schools for research quality*, we work collaboratively with government agencies, local authorities, research organisations, and businesses to deliver solutions with real‑world impact. Strong industry connections provide students with practical experience and ensure our graduates are highly sought after by leading employers.

Candidate Profile

You are an accomplished academic leader with a proven record in research, education, knowledge exchange, and enterprise. With experience leading a faculty, school, or similar complex environment, you bring vision, ambition, and the ability to deliver results aligned with institutional goals. Your leadership style is visible, transparent, and collaborative, fostering trust and respect across staff, students, and stakeholders. You unite diverse communities, promote equality of opportunity, and shape a positive culture that values excellence and innovation. You guide change with vision and resilience, building trust and leading transformation with confidence and empathy. Combining strategic thinking with financial acumen, you ensure sustainability while creating opportunities for growth.

With strong communication skills, you cultivate strategic relationships within the University and beyond, influencing senior stakeholders across government, industry, and global partners to strengthen the School’s reputation and impact. Your academic leadership is underpinned by research credibility, accreditation expertise, and a deep understanding of the UK Higher Education landscape, enabling you to balance strategic vision with operational delivery. Above all, you are motivated by the opportunity to shape the future of the School and the University, fostering a culture of excellence, equality, diversity, and inclusion, while strengthening income generation and enhancing our national and international reputation.

Benefits

We support a flexible and supportive working environment, complemented by a competitive benefits package that includes membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), generous annual leave, corporate healthcare, subsidised fitness facilities, and a range of staff discounts. A full overview of our benefits can be found.

Employment Details

This post is offered on a tenured basis initially for a period of five years, which is extendible up to a maximum of eight years. At the end of this tenure, the successful candidate will return to a substantive Professorial position within the University.

Application

For more information and details of how to apply, please visit https://TalentEdu.com/jobs/DeanUSBS.

For further details about the role or any enquiries, contact TalentEdu at [e-mail] or 0203 290 2907.

The closing date for receipt of applications is midnight (GMT) on Sunday, 1st February 2026.

Important Dates

Following a longlist meeting of the Search Committee, successful candidates will be invited to attend a virtual Engagement Day on Wednesday, 11th March 2026.

Interviews are scheduled to take place in person at the Highfield Campus on Tuesday, 31st March 2026.

QS World University Rankings 2026
Research Excellence Framework, 2021

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

We believe equality, diversity, and inclusion are fundamental to making the University of Southampton a welcoming, vibrant, and successful organisation. Having a diverse workforce, inclusive of people of all ages and beliefs, from different racial, educational, and social backgrounds, opens up a wealth of possibilities, makes us more creative, and accelerates our impact on society. We welcome applicants who value the diversity of our community and are willing to play their part in supporting the mission of inclusivity.

Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated on the job.