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The University of Sheffield is seeking to appoint an outstanding academic leader as Head of the School of Architecture and Landscape.

This is a significant opportunity to lead a distinctive and creative academic community, bringing together Architecture and Landscape Architecture to address major social and environmental challenges through design, research and education.

The School has a strong reputation for design-led teaching, an engaged student community, and close links with professional practice. Its work is shaped by a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity and socially responsible practice.

The Role

The Head of School will provide academic and operational leadership, working with colleagues to shape the School’s future direction and ensure delivery across research, education and external engagement.

Key responsibilities include:

• Setting and delivering the strategic direction of the School 

• Leading and developing a cohesive and collaborative academic community 

• Ensuring high-quality, sustainable education provision and student experience 

• Strengthening research activity and supporting the development of research capacity 

• Managing resources effectively to ensure long-term sustainability 

• Building external partnerships and enhancing the School’s profile 

A key priority will be fostering collaboration across disciplines, bringing together different perspectives while respecting their distinct identities.

The Person

We are seeking a credible and experienced academic leader who can demonstrate:

• A strong academic profile appropriate for appointment at Professorial level 

• Experience of leadership within a complex academic environment 

• The ability to lead and develop diverse academic communities 

• Experience of balancing priorities across teaching, research and operations 

• Strong people leadership skills, with the ability to support and motivate colleagues 

• The ability to work across disciplinary boundaries and build collaboration 

• A commitment to inclusive leadership and a positive working environment 

Applications are welcomed from candidates with backgrounds in architecture, landscape architecture or related disciplines.

The Context

The School operates within a changing higher education landscape, including evolving student demand and financial pressures. The successful candidate will bring the judgement and leadership capability to navigate this environment while maintaining the School’s distinctive strengths.

Further Information

Anderson Quigley is acting as an advisor to the University, and an executive search process is being carried out in addition to the public advertisement. 

Further information and how to apply is available here University of Sheffield - Head of School, Architecture and Landscape | AQ and  should you wish to discuss the role in strict confidence, please contact:

Sophie Rees on +44 (0)7719 313 982 or sophie.rees@andersonquigley.com 

Kiersten Avery on +44 (0)7510 384 735 or kiersten.avery@andersonquigley.com

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 10 June 2026

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