Associate Dean Research and Knowledge Exchange - FEHW

The University Of Wolverhampton; Walsall; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Walsall is seeking an Associate Dean Research and Knowledge Exchange to spearhead research initiatives and knowledge transfer. This role will involve working closely with senior leadership to shape strategies that impact both the faculty and society at large, emphasizing inclusion and social justice. The ideal candidate should possess significant academic experience and demonstrate excellence in leadership, coupled with a commitment to driving positive outcomes in research and education.

Benefits

Competitive salaries

Standard Life Pension scheme

Long Service Recognition

Free Will Writing Service

IT & Mobile Discounts

Wellbeing and Mental Health Support

Gym memberships discounts

Eyecare Support

Flu Vouchers

Paycare Health Benefit Plan

Generous Annual Leave

Flexible & Agile Working

Free On‑site Parking

Cycle Benefits Scheme

Employee Discounts

Travel Discounts

Staff Network and Inclusion

Library Access

Staff Scholarship Scheme

Leadership and Management Development

Qualifications

• Experience in educational leadership roles, preferably within higher education.
• Proven track record in research and knowledge exchange.
• Demonstrable experience of managing complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead a programme of transformation in research strategy.
• Translate the faculty's vision into tangible outcomes.
• Support and grow research activities that impact the region.

Skills

Leadership skills

Management experience

Research strategy development

Commitment to inclusion

Job description

The Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing is seeking to appoint a new Associate Dean Research and Knowledge Exchange to join the senior leadership team. This role will be central to driving forward research and knowledge exchange in a large faculty of around 10,000 students and over 500 staff.

Our vision is to address societal challenges and improve lives through world‑class research; you will be responsible for translating that vision to faculty‑level activities and outputs.

Role and Responsibilities

Working with the faculty Dean, other Associate Deans, the Heads of School, Heads of Research Centres and other research leads, you will lead a programme of transformation which will include the development and delivery of the faculty’s research strategy.

You will be an experienced academic with significant research, teaching and management experience. You will bring expertise and experience from one of the seven areas of the faculty: education, nursing, allied health and midwifery, public health, social work and social care, psychology and sport.

You will have a demonstrable experience of supporting and growing research and knowledge exchange into outcomes that have a clear impact within the region and professional practice.

You will have experience of leading on research strategy development and implementation at subject or faculty level in an organisation undergoing significant change, while successfully managing complex projects. You will demonstrate clear evidence of positive leadership skills and management performance, and line‑managing large teams.

Most importantly you will bring a commitment to inclusion and social justice within your leadership and research practice that will further enhance the faculty’s reputation in this area.

Potential applicants are encouraged to contact the Interim Dean of FEHW, Professor Phil Gravestock, to arrange an informal discussion: [e-mail].

Staff Benefits

You may be eligible to choose from a number of benefits during your appointment, subject to any rules applicable to the relevant benefit (as amended from time to time). Further details of these benefits are available on the intranet.

We believe employees should be recognised for their hard work and contribution to the University's growth and success and offer an attractive range of competitive benefits to all staff:

Your Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Standard Life Pension scheme – with employer contribution of up to 12% to the University’s defined contribution scheme.
• Long Service Recognition – £200 gift voucher, certificate, and afternoon tea with Vice Chancellor for 25 & 40 years of service.
• Free Will Writing Service – Complimentary will drafting for employees and their partners.
• IT & Mobile Discounts – EE Perk (20% off for family & friends) & software discounts.

Supporting Your Health & Wellbeing

• Wellbeing and Mental Health Support – 24/7 access to EAP service, free counselling sessions, wellbeing support resources and Occupational Health Service.
• Gym memberships discounts – at our Walsall Campus and discounts at WV Active sites in Wolverhampton.
• Eyecare Support – Free eVoucher for eye tests and glasses contribution.
• Flu Vouchers – Free flu vaccinations for staff.
• Paycare Health Benefit Plan – Covers optical, dental, physiotherapy, and personal accident insurance.
• Chaplaincy & Prayer Rooms – Access to multi-faith chaplaincy services.

Valuing You

• Generous Annual Leave (see table below)
• Flexible & Agile Working – Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements.
• Free On‑site Parking – available across campuses.
• Cycle Benefits Scheme – Save up to 42% on a bike & accessories via salary sacrifice.
• Employee Discounts – Savings on groceries, fashion, and entertainment.
• Travel Discounts – Up to 10% off holidays through Sodexo Circles.

Training and Development

• Staff Network and Inclusion – Access to support networks and events with our LGBTQ+, Global Majority, Disability, and Women's networks.
• Library Access – Staff have access to books and resources at our onsite libraries.
• Staff Scholarship Scheme – Funding for part‑time higher education, up to PhD level.
• Leadership and Management Development – Access to training opportunities to support you with advancing in your career.