Executive Dean, Faculty of Population Health Sciences (FPHS)

University College London; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global university in the UK seeks an exceptional Executive Dean for its Faculty of Population Health Sciences. The Dean will lead the faculty’s strategic vision and contribute to the health sector, driving innovation and fostering inclusivity. Candidates should have an outstanding research profile and experience in managing diverse academic teams. This role offers a vital opportunity to shape public health education and research at a top-ranked institution, with a collaborative environment that values diversity.

Qualifications

• Outstanding international research profile required.
• Experience leading diverse teams in academia is essential.
• Understanding of clinical environments is important.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of a strategic vision for the Faculty.
• Contribute significantly to UCL's leadership as part of the Management Committee.
• Engage with faculty staff and promote academic excellence.

Skills

Leadership skills

Team management

Research expertise

Strategic vision development

Diversity and inclusion commitment

Education

Academic background in relevant field

Job description

UCL is a world leading, global university with a community of more than 51,000 students from 150 countries and over 18,000 staff which pursues academic excellence, breaks boundaries, and makes a positive impact on real world problems. Consistently ranked among the top ten universities in the world, we champion innovation, creativity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration in both teaching and research. Our community is tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time - from advancing dementia and cancer research, to shaping global policy, and ensuring the ethical development of artificial intelligence.

UCL's Faculty of Population Health Sciences (FPHS) is a global leader in public health research, working across disciplines to unravel complex health challenges while educating the next generation of public and global health leaders. We are ranked fourth in the world and second in Europe for Public Health in the 2025 Shanghai Rankings. With over 1,800 staff, 3,000 students, an annual turnover exceeding £240 million and a research portfolio worth over £130 million, we are one of UCL’s most research-intensive faculties. Our exciting cross-disciplinary community encompasses eight institutes and schools, including the Global Business School for Health - the world’s first business school dedicated to health.

UCL is now seeking to appoint an exceptional Executive Dean to lead FPHS. Working closely with the Faculty Director of Operations, Vice‑Deans and Institute Directors, the Dean will lead the development and implementation of a strategic vision for the Faculty. The Dean is responsible to UCL’s Council, via the Vice‑Provost (Faculties) and the Provost, for the success of the Faculty. Together with the Vice Provost, Vice Presidents and Heads of Professional Services, the Dean will make a significant contribution to the leadership of UCL as a member of the University Management Committee.

Candidates should possess an outstanding international research profile alongside experience of leading and managing diverse teams of academic, research and professional services staff. A demonstrable track record of leadership within a large and complex academic unit alongside the ability to develop and motivate colleagues will be essential. The successful candidate will bring an academic background in a field relevant to the faculty, and whilst candidates do not need to be clinically qualified, an understanding of clinical environments, and experience of operating within them will be important. Equally vital is an appreciation of the Faculty's significant academic breadth.

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.

More information on the position can be found in the candidate brochure via https://wittkieffer.com/positions/38286

Enquiries can be made, in confidence, to Jamie Cumming-Wesley or Natalie Derry at WittKieffer. Completed applications should be submitted electronically to [e-mail]

Applications should consist of a CV accompanied by a covering letter addressing the criteria in the person specification and motivation for applying.

The deadline for receipt of applications is noon on 9th February 2026

The final interviews will take place on 29th May 2026.

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