What is the role of a Head of Department?

Being a Head of Department (HoD) is an excellent opportunity to play a leadership role at Lancaster University. The HoD provides support and develops the Department, whilst also having an opportunity to grow their skills through a structured development programme.

In a Head of Department role the key areas of responsibility are:

• Academic Leadership
• Managing People
• Managing Risk and Resource

The Head of Department (HoD) will provide academic leadership to encourage excellence in teaching and research. They will also manage and develop the department, its staff and its activities through the most effective and cost- effective use of resources and within the framework of the University strategic plan and policies, while representing the department to the University.

The HoD will be invited to represent the Department at key committees within the Faculty, they will also be invited to be part of Senate (the academic authority of the university) and the University Leadership Group. The HoD will encourage and develop excellence in teaching, research and engagement among colleagues. Read the Head of Department Job Description and Person Specification to learn more about what they do.

There are some University roles that are available to support Heads of Departments in their role, read Support for Heads of Department for a brief summary.

The position is usually held for a four year term, unless extended. At the end of the term, the role holder ceases their HoD responsibilities, returning to their substantive role. During the final 6 months in the role, there will ideally be a hand over with the new role holder.

To find out more about the benefits of taking up a Head of Department role, please see the Reward and Benefits Page

I am interested in a Head of Department role, what should I do?

If you are interested in taking up the role, then in the first instance please talk to your PDR Reviewer as part of your PDR conversation. You could also discuss it with a current Head of Department or with your HR Partner.

To help you progress on your journey into Academic Leadership Roles, the Organisational Development team are available to advise on what development is available to you. There are a number of leader and manager programmes Lancaster offers including Bonington Leadership Programme and Leader@Lancaster.

Am I eligible to apply?

You are eligible for these roles if you are an academic colleague within the Department. You must also hold a substantive post that exceeds the duration of the term of the appointment. Applicants will normally be at professorial level, however appointments will be made depending on the context, objectives and circumstances of the department at the time and on the skills and experience of particular candidates.