Aston University

Aston University is an ambitious institution built on strong foundations and very much on an upwards trajectory. Recent accolades include Guardian University of the Year 2020, the Times Higher Education (THE) Entrepreneurial University of the Year and a top 25 ranking in the Guardian’s 2023 league table.

Aston’s strategy is committed to delivering positive change for its core beneficiaries – students, business and the professions, and the wider city region and communities.   The University is renowned for its commitment to the future success of its students through adding significant value (top 20 LEO salary), social mobility (#2 in England) and providing a modern, supportive, and multicultural environment for all its staff and students.

As pioneers of the placement year, Aston has an outstanding reputation for producing work-ready graduates from diverse backgrounds, and with 70% of its students from an ethnic minority, it is among the UK’s most diverse universities.  The University’s research and knowledge exchange performance and profile is strong for the size of the institution, with a compelling track record of bids, collaboration and engagement in the UK and internationally.

Medical School

A relatively new addition to Aston’s academic profile, the Medical School took its first intake of medical students in September 2018 and will see its first cohort graduate this year. It is a Medical School with social mobility at its heart.

The Candidate

The University is now seeking an exceptional individual who will be able to provide decisive and innovative leadership to the school so it can meet the current opportunities and demands of the sector. This role will play a pivotal part in the continued growth of the school’s academic activity and reputation. The Head of School will have strategic oversight and responsibility of the school’s education and research agendas and will ensure the school is achieving its strategic targets through the effective leadership of staff and research activities. They will also be expected to work closely with several key external partners to further expand Aston’s medical influence within the local area.

The appointed candidate will have a demonstrable ability to lead a department of appropriate scale within a field of science relevant to the medical school. They will be an established academic in their field, and bring a track record of leading successful growth across both research and teaching activity within a high performing context. Candidates will bring a collaborative and inclusive management style, an ability to develop partnerships with external stakeholders which benefit the medical school and wider university, alongside efficient and effective resource management.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Aston University on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference MBGBA. Alternatively, telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by midnight on 3 January 2023.