Subject Lead for Built Environment

Discover a Leadership Opportunity in Built Environment at the University of Derby

Are you a forward-thinking academic leader with a passion for shaping the future of the Built Environment? The University of Derby is presenting a compelling opportunity for an exceptional individual to step into the role of Subject Lead for Built Environment. This pivotal position offers the chance to make a significant impact within the College of Science and Engineering, a hub for vital STEM skills essential to the UK's Industrial Strategy.

About the University and College

The University of Derby is recognised for its commitment to excellence, evident in its Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023. With a modern outlook and a strong focus on research, teaching, and sustainable living, the University is dedicated to creating positive change. The College of Science and Engineering is at the forefront of addressing global challenges, from digitisation to decarbonisation, by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across a range of STEM disciplines.

The School of Engineering and Built Environment within the College is a dynamic and innovative community. It offers diverse programmes in engineering, architecture, construction, and design, equipping students with the skills to tackle complex issues in sustainability and infrastructure. With state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry partnerships, the School is committed to applied research and hands-on learning. The discipline area is well-equipped with advanced technologies in areas such as intelligent instrumentation, robotics, and renewable energy, supporting a thriving applied research agenda and knowledge exchange initiatives.

The Role: Drive Excellence in Built Environment

As the Subject Lead for Built Environment, you will be a key member of the School Senior Management Team. This role is crucial for the success of the Subject and contributes to the wider leadership of the College and University. You will be responsible for:

• Providing strong, supportive, and challenging leadership to academic staff.
• Maintaining high standards in teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Actively engaging in teaching, research, and scholarship to lead by example.
• Ensuring an excellent student experience and fostering student success.
• Initiating and encouraging professional and industrial engagement to enhance academic enterprise.
• Undertaking sector horizon scanning and identifying new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
• Contributing to the University's strategic aims and values.

This is a unique chance to contribute to a College that is actively developing STEM solutions for pressing national and global challenges. The opportunity also includes the potential for conferment of an Associate Professor or Professorial title.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate will be a strategically astute and engaging academic leader with:

• A proven track record in industry collaboration, effective management, and driving excellence in education and research.
• A deep understanding of how Built Environment disciplines align with societal needs and market dynamics.
• The ability to translate strategic aims into impactful academic delivery.
• A commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Significant experience in higher education teaching and academic leadership.
• Strong commercial acumen, including budget management and financial oversight.
• A dedication to personal research and scholarship, ideally contributing to REF.
• A commitment to inclusivity and social mobility, ensuring all learners thrive.
• A collaborative and inspiring leadership style.

Key Advantages and Career Growth

This role presents a significant opportunity for career advancement within a Gold-rated university. Key advantages for candidates include:

• Leadership Impact: The chance to shape a critical academic discipline and contribute to national and global challenges.
• Research and Scholarship: Opportunities to lead and engage in cutting-edge research with potential for professorial recognition.
• Industry Connections: A strong emphasis on industry engagement and knowledge exchange, reflecting Derby's heritage in construction and infrastructure.
• Professional Development: A commitment to continuous learning and development for staff, with access to a wide range of training opportunities.
• Supportive Environment: An inclusive culture that prioritises staff wellbeing, offering comprehensive support and resources.
• Competitive Benefits: A generous benefits package, including substantial annual leave, a comprehensive pension scheme, wellbeing support, and various staff discounts.
• Career Progression: Scope for further progression in salary for exceptional performers.

Important Considerations for Candidates

• Sponsorship Eligibility: The University offers sponsorship for this role, provided candidates meet the UKVI criteria, including English language proficiency and meeting salary thresholds (minimum £41,700 as of 22nd July 2025, or the going rate for the SOC code, whichever is higher). Specific conditions may apply for visa applications based on individual circumstances.
• Location: The discipline area is based at the University's STEM annex in Markeaton Street, offering co-located staff offices and lab facilities.
• Salary: The advertised salary range is £59,688 to £74,610 per annum, with potential for further progression up to £85,802 per annum for exceptional candidates.
• Safeguarding Commitment: The University is deeply committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all its community members.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated academic leader to contribute to the ongoing success and impact of the University of Derby and its College of Science and Engineering. We encourage ambitious professionals who are ready to lead and innovate to explore this rewarding career path.