Principal
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- Employer:
- Somerville College, Oxford
- Location:
- Oxford
- Salary:
- £120,000 per annum
- Closing date:
- 9am Monday 23rd September 2024
- Job Ref:
- GSe111197
Description
Somerville is an Oxford College like no other.
Founded in 1879 to provide an opportunity for women, Somerville remains a liberal, progressive, inclusive and diverse community. The Somerville Fellowship is a Governing Body where the search for excellence, in the context of diversity and access, is at the core of all decision making. The College has been gender inclusive since 1994 and we remain true to our founding principles. Our ethos of cultural diversity and accessibility characterise the College to this day. Somerville is also one of the UK’s first Colleges of Sanctuary, and as such offers displaced students and academics a place of refuge.
Our current Principal, Baroness Jan Royall, will complete her term as Principal in 2025, and we are now seeking a new Principal to build on Jan’s legacy and our success as a College. The Principal’s role is to chair the Governing Body and major College Committees, provide academic leadership, facilitate the improvement of all aspects of the life of the College and foster and develop relationships with our alumni. The incoming Principal will be committed to representing Somerville externally, promoting academic excellence, leading the diversity agenda and enhancing the welfare of the Somerville Community. The next Principal of Somerville will help us navigate how to align the College’s pioneering history as a women’s college with its modern identity.
The Principal’s multifaceted role is integral to the operation of the College. It is a multifaceted role requiring dynamism and energy. Candidates may come from any sector or background but should have a demonstrable track record of empathetic and compassionate leadership, an inclusive and facilitative style, and the ability to build consensus. Chairing experience is essential, as is the ability to lead through engagement and negotiation.
Those interested in a confidential conversation are encouraged to contact Dr Becca Franssen, Juliet Jukes and Ellie Hurst at Somerville@GatenbySanderson.com.
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How to Apply
To apply, please upload your CV and a succinct covering letter explaining the your reasons for applying and how your skills, experience and qualities match what the College is looking for.