Vice-Principal and Head of College of Social Sciences

Attractive salary

The University of Glasgow is a world-renowned institution with a proud history of academic excellence dating back to 1451. A QS global top 80 university, Glasgow is a place where world-changing research meets transformative teaching and where talented people are empowered to realise their ambitions.

We are seeking to appoint a Vice-Principal and Head of College of Social Sciences to provide strategic and academic leadership to one of the University’s largest Colleges. Reporting to the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, the postholder will be a member of the University’s Senior Management Group and will contribute to the overall leadership and direction of the University.

The College of Social Sciences comprises five academic Schools and the Centre for Public Policy, with over 12,000 students across undergraduate, postgraduate taught and doctoral programmes and more than 1,100 academic and professional services staff. The College plays a central role in delivering the University’s research, education and civic missions.

The Vice-Principal and Head of College will lead the development and delivery of a compelling College strategy aligned to the University’s priorities, with responsibility for academic performance across research, education and impact. The role will ensure effective leadership of significant people, physical and financial resources, foster a collaborative and inclusive culture and empower Heads of School through a distributed approach to leadership. Working closely with colleagues across the University, the postholder will strengthen interdisciplinary activity, grow external income and build productive relationships with policymakers, funders, industry, alumni and international partners.

Candidates will bring a distinguished academic profile and a strong record of senior leadership within a complex, research-intensive university. They will demonstrate the ability to deliver strategic change, inspire high-performing teams and engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. Integrity, emotional intelligence and a collaborative leadership style will be essential.

Closing date for applications is midday, Monday 23 February 2026.

The University of Glasgow is an equal opportunities employer and positively welcomes applications from candidates who are currently underrepresented at this level.