Subject Lead FE and Skills at University of Derby Derby Full-time

is hiring a Subject Lead FE and Skills at University of Derby Derby in Derby, UK. This is a full-time position.

Are you a visionary education leader ready to drive transformative change in further education and skills? Furthermore, the University of Derby is actively seeking a Subject Lead for FE and Skills to join its prestigious Institute of Education and Society. This is an outstanding opportunity to lead curriculum development, inspire academic teams, and make a lasting impact on the future of education across the region. Additionally, this permanent, full-time role offers a competitive salary and the chance to work within one of the UK’s most forward-thinking universities.

About the Role

As the Subject Lead for FE and Skills, you will be responsible for providing strategic academic leadership across further education and skills programmes. Moreover, you will report directly to the Director of the Institute of Education and Society, playing a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum and ensuring the highest standards of teaching excellence. In addition, you will lead a team of academics, oversee programme development, and drive innovation in pedagogical approaches. The role is based at the Buxton or Derby campus, and it requires a dynamic leader who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on programme management. Consequently, you will also be expected to contribute to research, scholarly activity, and external partnerships that enhance the university’s reputation in the education sector.

Key Responsibilities for Subject Lead FE and Skills at University of Derby Derby

In this leadership position, you will primarily oversee the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of FE and skills programmes. Furthermore, you will manage academic staff performance, conduct appraisals, and support professional development initiatives. Additionally, your responsibilities will include leading quality assurance processes, contributing to validation and review events, and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks. You will also be tasked with building strong relationships with external partners, including schools, colleges, and employers. Meanwhile, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for both staff and students will be central to your role. Moreover, you will contribute to recruitment strategies and represent the institute at open days, conferences, and professional events.

Requirements and Qualifications

To be considered for this role, you must hold a doctoral-level qualification or equivalent professional experience in education. Additionally, you should have significant leadership experience in further education or higher education settings. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong track record of curriculum development, quality enhancement, and team leadership. Furthermore, experience in research or scholarly activity related to FE and skills is highly desirable. You should also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Moreover, a thorough understanding of current policy developments in further education and the skills agenda is essential for success in this position.

How to Apply for This Position

If you are passionate about transforming further education and skills provision, we encourage you to apply for this exciting role. To submit your application, please visit the official University of Derby careers page and complete the online application form before the closing date of 22 April 2026. Additionally, ensure that your application clearly demonstrates how your experience and qualifications align with the requirements outlined in the job description. Furthermore, candidates who are shortlisted will be invited to participate in a comprehensive selection process. Therefore, do not miss this exceptional opportunity to lead and inspire at one of the UK’s most dynamic universities.