Head of Department of Fashion and Jewellery

Department:
Department of Fashion and Jewellery

Location:

School of Jewellery
Salary: £80,000 per annum
Permanent Post Type:
Full Time
Release Date: 06 March 2026
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Friday 20 March 2026
Reference: ARTS
26002

For almost two centuries, Birmingham City University has transformed lives. We have helped to shape and redefine the city of Birmingham, made a significant impact across the wider region, and extended our influence far beyond. From our origins as the Birmingham Government School of Design, we have built a distinguished and enduring legacy.

As a teaching-intensive university, our courses are grounded in practice-based learning, complemented by comprehensive student support that prepares our graduates to thrive in their chosen careers. While education remains at the heart of our mission, we also recognise the lasting value of research and enterprise. These priorities are embedded within our newly launched strategy, guiding our ambitions through to 2030 and beyond.

If you are inspired by the opportunity to contribute to an ambitious and forward-looking institution, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Birmingham City University is seeking to appoint a Head of Department of Fashion and Jewellery to provide strategic and operational leadership within the School.

Reporting to the Dean, the postholder will be accountable for the delivery of all operational outcomes within the department, ensuring full alignment with the University’s ambitious 2030 Strategy. The Head of Department will embed institutional and School priorities to advance excellence in learning and teaching, research and innovation, and the enhancement of the student experience.

The role includes accountability for key performance metrics and sector benchmarks, including , TEF and KEF, together with the effective stewardship of financial resources in partnership with the Director of School Operations. Under the direction of the Dean, the postholder will contribute to the continued development of a culture defined by accountability, capability and high performance, demonstrating outstanding leadership to engage, support and motivate colleagues across the department.

Applicants will bring substantial senior management experience across Fashion, Fashion and Textiles, Jewellery, Horology, Gemmology, and business management within these disciplines. The role operates across both the Vittoria Street and Parkside campuses and requires a visible, collaborative and strategically focused leader.

This appointment represents a significant opportunity to shape and advance the future direction of Fashion and Jewellery within a dynamic and progressive institution. If you are excited by the prospect of joining Birmingham City University at this pivotal moment, please review the Candidate Pack for further details of the role and criteria.

In addition to completing the application process, applicants are asked to upload an up-to-date CV (with publication history where applicable).

Interviews for this role are envisioned to take place in the week commencing 30 March 2026.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and to an environment that supports lawful free speech and academic freedom. We will continuously review and improve our policies, practices, and procedures to ensure that we are promoting these in all aspects of our operations. We believe that by working together, combining our many different backgrounds and life experiences, we will empower each other to reach our full potential.