The University of Reading is a globally engaged university with a longstanding commitment to learning, discovery and sustainability. Home to over 27,000 students from more than 160 countries, we bring together diverse perspectives to push academic boundaries and drive positive change. Our research informs our teaching, while our award-winning green campuses provide an inspiring environment in which students and colleagues can thrive.
Our School of Agriculture, Policy and Development brings together expertise across agriculture, animal science, international development, environmental management, food marketing and consumer behaviour. Reading is ranked first in the UK and 19th in the world for Agriculture and Forestry in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, reflecting our strength in this field. With more than 800 students from around 80 countries, the School is an international community whose research addresses pressing global challenges and sits at the heart of the University’s new AgriFood Futures programme. We are now seeking a new Head of School to build on these strengths and lead its next phase of development.
The Head of School will provide strategic, academic and managerial leadership across education, research and external engagement, bringing colleagues together around a shared vision. Working closely with the School’s leadership team and colleagues across the University, you will champion interdisciplinary collaboration, enhance the student experience and develop partnerships that extend the School’s impact and influence nationally and internationally. You will also oversee its people and resources, ensuring that academic ambition is supported by effective management and financial sustainability. As a member of the University’s Senior Leadership Group, you will contribute to institutional decision-making and our wider strategic direction.
The ideal candidate will bring an established record of achievement in teaching and/or research, alongside successful leadership experience within a university environment. You will have demonstrated the ability to develop teams, lead organisational or cultural change and deliver strategic objectives. An inspiring and collaborative leader, you will combine a compelling academic vision with financial and commercial understanding, sound judgement and strong operational skills. You will be able to engage colleagues and external partners around shared priorities, creating an inclusive environment that supports innovation, recognises achievement and enables people to fulfil their potential.
The Head of School role is offered for an initial six-year term, alongside a permanent academic appointment.
Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the University of Reading on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit roles.saxbam.com using reference IBVXG.
Applications should be received by noon on Friday 6th November 2026. Interviews will be held on 15 December 2026
By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
