Berwick Partners
University of Northampton, Executive Dean – Faculty of Health, Life Sciences and Education
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About the University
The University of Northampton is a modern, values-driven institution with a proud heritage and an ambitious future. As the only university in Northamptonshire, it plays a vital civic and economic role, contributing more than £300 million annually to the local economy while transforming lives through education, research, and social impact. Home to over 14,000 students and based at its award-winning Waterside Campus, the University is committed to becoming the university for Northamptonshire, working closely with employers, public services, communities, and partners to drive sustainable growth, opportunity, and positive change.
About the Role
This newly created Executive Dean role emerges at a pivotal moment in the University’s evolution. As part of a strategic realignment programme, the University is moving from three faculties to two and has deliberately elevated the traditional Dean model to create a more influential institutional leadership role. Reporting directly to the Vice Chancellor and serving as a key member of the University Leadership Team, the Executive Dean will lead the Faculty of Health, Life Sciences, and Education through two Deputy Deans, a Faculty Manager, and a Director of Commercial and Enterprise. The Faculty encompasses six Schools, the Nursing and Midwifery Competency Testing Centre, and multi-disciplinary clinic, supporting more than 7,000 students across health, life sciences, and education disciplines. Alongside faculty leadership, the successful candidate will undertake significant cross-university responsibilities, helping shape institutional strategy, transformation, growth, and performance.
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Requirements
We are seeking an exceptional and visible leader with a track record of cross-institutional success in higher education or a closely related environment. You will bring experience of:
- Leading large, complex academic operations
- Delivering transformational change
- Improving organisational performance
- Driving financial sustainability
Equally important will be your ability to:
- Think beyond traditional faculty boundaries
- Build influential partnerships
- Identify new opportunities for growth and diversification
- Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and ambition
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Experience of developing new markets, commercial activity, apprenticeships, employer engagement, or portfolio innovation will be particularly valuable, alongside the credibility and judgement to inspire confidence among colleagues, students, governors, and external stakeholders.
How to Apply
We have engaged Berwick Partners (an Odgers company) to support on this appointment process. For a confidential discussion, please contact alex.albone@berwickpartners.co.uk.
For further information, including details of how to apply, please visit: www.berwickpartners.co.uk/96443. Applications are invited at your earliest convenience, and no later than Monday 24th August at 09.00 BST. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview in person at the University of Northampton on 30 September or 1 October.
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