Head of Economics

University of Leicester; Leicester; On-site; GBP 125,000 - GBP 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Leicester is seeking a Professor or Associate Professor to lead the Economics department. The role involves extensive academic leadership and strategic oversight in teaching and research. The successful candidate will manage resources, drive innovation, and enhance partnerships. A PhD or equivalent experience and proven leadership skills are required. This position offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Excellent pension scheme

Generous annual leave allowance

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Established academic leader with a record in education, research, or business engagement.
• Proven ability to manage resources and lead change effectively.
• Strong communication skills and collaborative approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead Economics and shape its future direction.
• Oversee teaching, research, and enterprise activities.
• Manage resources and foster external partnerships.

Skills

Academic leadership

Organisational change management

Interpersonal communication

Research expertise

Funding acquisition

Education

PhD or equivalent experience

Job description

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to lead Economics within the University of Leicester School of Business (ULSB). This is a full‑time, permanent appointment as Professor or Associate Professor, with a four‑year term as Head of Economics, offering you the chance to play a transformative role in shaping the future direction of the discipline, the School, and the University. Working closely with the Pro Vice‑Chancellor and Executive Dean, as well as other senior leaders, you will ensure the effective operation and development of Economics in line with the University’s strategic objectives.

You will provide academic and strategic leadership, overseeing teaching, research, and enterprise activities to deliver outstanding student experiences and world‑class research. The role involves managing resources, driving innovation, and fostering external partnerships to enhance reputation and income growth. As a member of the School’s Leadership Team, you will contribute to shared strategies and champion inclusivity, equality, and collegiality across all activities.

About you

You will be an established academic leader with a substantial record of achievement in research, education, or business engagement, supported by a PhD or equivalent experience. Your proven ability to lead organisational change, manage resources effectively, and inspire colleagues will be essential. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, combined with an inclusive and collaborative approach, will enable you to carry colleagues with you and advance the discipline.

You will demonstrate entrepreneurial flair, with experience in securing external funding or partnerships, and a commitment to high‑quality teaching and research appropriate to your career path. You will also actively contribute to creating a diverse and supportive academic environment.

Additional information

Informal enquiries regarding this opportunity are welcome and should be directed to Daniel Ladley at [e-mail].

Applications should consist of a curriculum vitae detailing relevant qualifications and experience, full employment history and achievements. CV's should be accompanied by a two‑page cover letter describing briefly how you feel you meet the criteria outlined in the Job Summary Form, your achievements, why the appointment is of interest and what you'd like to achieve in the role.

The first selection stage will take place remotely on 27th March 2026, with the final selection stage taking place in‑person on 21st April 2026.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward‑thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Vacancy terms

Full‑Time permanent appointment as Professor or Associate Professor, Four Year Term as Head of Economics.