Dean of Agricultural Sciences & Practice at Royal Agricultural University

Overview

Location: Swindon
Salary: £70,918 – £79,795 per year
Type: Permanent, Full-time
Benefits: Car scheme, company pension, cycle to work scheme, free parking, on-site gym, shuttle service
Closing Date: July 31, 2024
Interviews: Week of August 19, 2024

Welcome from the Vice-Chancellor

Since its founding in 1845, the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) has been at the forefront of agricultural education. As the first agricultural college in the English-speaking world, RAU has always emphasized the combination of “Practice with Science,” which continues to guide our mission today. Our commitment to addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainable land use remains strong.

Our strategic approach is built on three pillars: Quality, Reach, and Sustainability. We aim for excellence locally, nationally, and globally, with sustainability at the core. We are proud of our rich heritage and our dynamic alumni network of over 17,000 graduates worldwide. If you share our passion for the land-based sector, we invite you to help shape the future of RAU.

Best regards,
Professor Peter McCaffery
Vice Chancellor

About the Royal Agricultural University

The RAU has a longstanding reputation for preparing graduates to tackle pressing global issues such as climate change, food security, and biodiversity loss. Recognized as a National Centre of Excellence by the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, RAU also houses the UK’s leading agri-technology incubator, Farm 491.

With a strong focus on rural chartered surveying, RAU’s alumni hold leadership roles in major national and international firms. In the 2022 National Student Survey, RAU was ranked top in the UK for Learning Community and fourth for overall student satisfaction among English universities.

Heritage

Founded in 1845 as the Royal Agricultural College, RAU has been a leader in agricultural science innovation. It achieved full university status in 2013 and now offers a range of subjects including agriculture, business, environment, and equine science.

Present

Located in Cirencester, RAU supports a close-knit community of approximately 1,100 students from diverse backgrounds. RAU has also established the Joint Institute of Advanced Agri-Technology in China, which will host 1,200 students by 2024.

Future

RAU’s vision is to become the UK’s leading global university for sustainable farming and land management. Our strategy focuses on Quality, Reach, and Sustainability, aiming for excellence in teaching, research, and engagement, and expanding our diverse community while showcasing sustainable management practices.

University Values

Collaborative: We value teamwork and shared goals.
Open-Minded: We welcome diverse experiences and ideas.
Resourceful: We strive for creativity and high standards.
Responsible: We uphold integrity and ethical standards.
Inclusive: We respect and embrace diversity.

Recent Highlights

RAU’s research is recognized as ‘world-leading’ and ‘international in quality’.
Partnered with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Agriculture to open a new International Agriculture University in Tashkent.
Re-approved as a Centre of Excellence for Enterprise Education by the IOEE.
Top ranks in the National Student Survey and the Whatuni Student Choice Awards.
Awarded £5.8m by the Office for Students to develop a new Land Laboratory Teaching Centre.
Plans for a £100m sustainable Innovation Village at the Cirencester campus.
Joint third in the highest rank change in the Complete University Guide 2024.
Notable research grants and high scores in the Knowledge Exchange Framework.

The Role

Title: Dean of Agricultural Sciences & Practice
Reports to: Pro Vice Chancellor (Academic Planning & Resources)
Location: Cirencester (and Swindon, with travel to overseas partners)
Salary: £70,918 – £79,795
Term: Permanent, Full Time

Purpose

The Dean of Agricultural Sciences & Practice will provide academic leadership and management, overseeing subjects such as Agriculture, Animal and Environmental Science. This role is part of the Vice Chancellor’s Advisory Group.

Key Responsibilities

Lead subject area development with a focus on innovation, inclusivity, and communication.
Ensure modules meet employer needs, are financially viable, and maximize student choice.
Line manage academic staff, ensuring effective recruitment, selection, and development.
Promote scholarship in teaching, research, and enterprise.
Maintain high academic quality and standards.
Develop external relationships.
Contribute to RAU’s strategic direction and participate in teaching, research, and knowledge exchange.

Person Specification

Higher degree in a relevant discipline.
Fellowship of the HE Academy or equivalent teaching qualification.
Proven academic and professional experience in the subject area.
Record of fostering teamwork and innovation in teaching.
Understanding of HE sector opportunities and challenges.
Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Strong leadership, communication, and change management skills.

General Responsibilities

Comply with equality, safeguarding, and confidentiality policies.
Participate in the appraisal process and mandatory training.
Report absence according to University procedures.
Maintain a smoke-free environment and comply with employment terms.

Application Process

This full-time position is permanent, with a 12-month probation period. The role requires a minimum of 35 hours per week, with an annual leave entitlement of 30 days plus bank holidays. Staff may also receive additional discretionary days off.

For further information, please visit the RAU strategy page: click the link below>

APPLY HERE