Chief Academic Officer and Deputy President

The OrganisationSouth East Technological University (SETU) was established in May 2022, enabled by new legislation and the merger of two former Institutes of Technology that had been central to economic, social and cultural life in the south east for fifty years. As a multi-campus technological university, SETU serves its 18,000+ learners across campuses in Waterford, Carlow, Wexford, Wicklow and Kilkenny and employs approximately 2,000 staff. SETU offers a student-centred education and is committed to lifelong learning, access, equality and inclusion, and to the provision of a comprehensive educational offering. The RoleReporting to the President, the role of the Chief Academic Officer and Deputy President is to lead the overall strategic academic direction of SETU through developing relationships with academic leaders and external partners.The successful candidate will play a key part in accomplishing SETU’s academic goals as set out in the university’s strategic plan, as well as having responsibility for academic planning, academic resourcing, and will guide the relevant Vice-Presidents in support and development of the academic experience of students and the research profile of SETU. They will also promote and champion a culture of collegiality and shared academic & research excellence across all faculty members. The PersonThe successful candidate will have demonstrable experience in the leadership of large/complex academic units with significant strategic, financial and operational responsibility. They will also have a proven track record of strong external senior-level relationships and partnerships, including with enterprise, public sector bodies, agencies and other universities. The role will also require significant experience leading Research and Development, as well as proven experience of collaboration and engagement within Higher Education on a national or international scale. Essential Requirements The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate evidence of:Doctoral qualification.Leadership of and commitment to academic excellence and the positive academic experience of students.Proven history of strong external senior-level relationships and partnerships, including with enterprise, public sector bodies, agencies and other universities.Engagement within Higher Education on a national or international scale.Successful leadership of large/complex academic units with significant strategic, financial and operational responsibilities. Significant experience leading Research and Development.A strong understanding of policy, funding and Government environment as they relate to higher education. Desirable RequirementsThe successful candidate may demonstrate evidence of:A positive, enthusiastic, flexible and proactive approach to work allied with an ability to deliver projects on timeAbility to prioritise and manage workloads and to cope with conflicting demands.Leading a complex organisation through a period of major change.Leading a complex organisation through a period of major changeKey responsibilitiesThe Chief Academic Officer and Deputy President will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:Leadership and Strategy Hold the position of Deputy President with an ability to deputise for the President on any university matter.Develop and oversee implementation of academic strategies that align with the wider mission, vision and values of SETU.Ensure that the academic activities of SETU underpin the strategic plan.Offer operational and strategic direction to Vice-Presidents (Academic Affairs, Teaching and Learning and Research, Innovation and Impact) to ensure integration of academic priorities with broader university initiatives.Provide mentorship and guidance to Faculty senior leadership roles that will report to the postholder, such as the new Faculty Executive Dean grade.Work closely with the President to identify and implement policies and strategic planning relating to academic functions.Contribute to institutional development and success as a member of the Senior Leadership team. Faculty Recruitment and DevelopmentWork constructively with Faculty leadership roles in the development of academic areas.Provide strategic leadership in recruiting, retaining and developing a diverse faculty across the University.Maintain a high level of morale and a strong culture that promotes communication and accountability across Faculties.Promote a culture of collegiality and shared academic & research excellence across all faculty members.Support professional development, continuing education and research interests.ResearchProvide leadership regarding the integration of research into the core academic mission of the university.Support the development and implementation of strategies in research, innovation and graduate research studies.Oversee the cross faculty & university growth of Research, in conjunction with the Vice President Research, Innovation and Impact. Budget and Resource ManagementCollaborate with the President, the Chief Operations Officer and the Chief Financial Officer to ensure appropriate allocation of resources required to support academic priorities.Lead academic development across the university, including appropriate strategies linked to workforce planning.Ensure appropriate management of resourcing, budgets and investments within Faculties.Provide leadership to budgetary processes and financial matters pertaining to research.Identify appropriate opportunities for revenue generation and ensure cost effectiveness. Further InformationFor further information please see the detailed candidate information booklet below.All enquiries should be directed to the Executive Recruitment Team by email to execrecruit@mazars.ie or by telephone on +353 (1) 449 4400. ApplicationApplications are to be submitted via the online portal available https://mazars.jobs.people-first.com/jobs/search (Hyperlink to “here”) (filter results by ‘Executive Search’ category”) and must include:1. A cover letter outlining why you wish to be considered for the role of Chief Academic Officer and Deputy President and why you believe your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role.2. A comprehensive CV clearly showing your relevant achievements and experience in your career to date.3. A completed application form. This document is available to download below, or via email at execrecruit@mazars.ie