Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

The Royal College of Art; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 64,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university for art and design is seeking a Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion to enhance community inclusion and oversee the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy. Responsibilities include shaping EDI initiatives and leading senior governance engagement. The ideal candidate will have substantial higher education leadership in EDI, fostering an equitable community. This role offers a salary of £64,753–£72,255 per annum and a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

SAUL pension scheme

Enhanced family-friendly policies

Occupational health and support services

Qualifications

• Strong track record in teaching, research and/or academic leadership in higher education.
• Experience leading EDI or equality initiatives with measurable cultural impact.
• In-depth understanding of intersectional equality, inclusive pedagogy, belonging and academic freedom.

Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver the EDI Strategy and oversee the Race Equality Charter action plan.
• Champion intersectional thinking and remove systemic barriers to belonging.
• Lead and mentor the EDI Officers and RCA BLK.

Skills

Teaching experience

Leadership in EDI initiatives

Understanding of intersectional equality

Engagement with governance bodies

Inclusive leadership skills

Job description

Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Grade 10: £64,753–£72,255 per annum (incl. London Allowance)
Permanent | Full time | Hybrid (3 days on site)

Interview Date: Wednesday 28 January 2026

The Royal College of Art is the world’s leading university for art and design and home to a diverse, global creative community. As we move towards our bicentenary in 2037, we are strengthening our commitment to equity, inclusion and belonging across all aspects of College life.

We are now seeking a Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion to provide academic and strategic leadership that supports an inclusive, respectful and intellectually open community. This role is central to delivering our EDI Strategy, Race Equality Charter commitments and our values: Integrity, Inclusion, Curiosity and Collaboration.

About the Role

• Shape and deliver the EDI Strategy and oversee the Race Equality Charter action plan.
• Support inclusive and equitable approaches to learning, teaching and assessment.
• Champion intersectional thinking and remove systemic barriers to belonging.
• Influence senior decision-making across governance bodies.
• Lead and mentor the EDI Officers and RCA BLK, and act as senior sponsor for staff and student networks.
• Support policy development on equality, freedom of speech and academic freedom.
• Maintain a 20% research profile in EDI, belonging or related fields.

About You

We welcome applications from candidates who can bring a mix of academic leadership, strategic insight and lived experience.

You will have:

• A strong track record in teaching, research and/or academic leadership in higher education.
• Experience leading EDI or equality initiatives with measurable cultural impact.
• In-depth understanding of intersectional equality, inclusive pedagogy, belonging and academic freedom.
• Experience engaging with senior governance bodies.
• Knowledge of equality frameworks such as REC, AdvanceHE and relevant legislation.
• Inclusive leadership skills and the ability to engage confidently across diverse communities.

Salary & Benefits

Grade 10: £64,753–£72,255 including London Allowance

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays and College closure days
• SAUL pension scheme
• Season ticket loans, enhanced family-friendly policies, occupational health and 24/7 support services
• Hybrid working between Kensington and Battersea

Our Recruitment Process

We want applicants to feel informed and supported throughout:

• 7 January 2026: Applications close
• w/c 12 January: Shortlisting
• w/c 19 January: Optional candidate engagement/Q&A session
• 28 January 2026: Final panel interview

Shortlisted candidates will receive the interview format, panel members, questions and—if applicable—presentation topic in advance. We limit the panel to four colleagues to ensure the process feels welcoming and focused.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through our online system. We do not request CVs. Instead, candidates will answer six questions linked to the essential criteria.