Appointment of the Head of School of Applied Social Studies

APPOINTMENT OF

the head of school of applied social studies

The professional University

1

www.rgu.ac.uk

CONTENTS

the oPPORTUNITY 2 FACULTY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE 4 SCHOOL OF APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES 6 A CLEAR FUTURE 10 THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY 12 TRACK RECORD 16 ROLE PROFILE 18 CANDIDATE PROFILE 19 ABERDEEN CITY AND SHIRE 20 CORPORATE MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS 22 ORGANISATION CHART 23 SUMMARY OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS 24 HOW TO APPLY 25

THE OPPORTUNITY

’THE TOP MODERN UNIVERSITY IN THE UK’

2

IN ‘THE TIMES GOOD UNIVERSITY GUIDE’

THE UNIVERSITY PRIDES ITSELF IN PRODUCING HIGHLY VALUED GRADUATES FOR THE HEALTH AND SOCIAL WORK PROFESSIONS AS WELL AS THE SOCIAL SCIENCE AND SCIENCE SECTORS. INDEED, OUR CLEAR FOCUS ON PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION COUPLED WITH STRONG LINKS TO THE PUBLIC AND THIRD SECTORS AND TO THE SCIENCE INDUSTRY, MEANS THE UNIVERSITY HAS ONE OF THE UK’S BEST GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT RECORDS. By 2013 our “Estates Master Plan” will have provided us with the best riverside campus in Europe. This, together with our Virtual Learning Environment, will assure continued provision of a first class learning experience for all our students, both on and off campus.

We are seeking to build upon our reputation for excellence in Social Work and Social Sciences education, research and “business interaction”. As Head of School, you will be at the heart of this, seeking to accelerate the pace of change, focusing on strategy and national policy and responding to the educational needs of the workforce, locally, nationally and internationally.

This is a superb opportunity for a respected, ambitious leader, with the appropriate professional qualifications.

- THREE YEARS IN A ROW

3

faculty of health and Social care

The Faculty is one of the leading providers of applied, practitioner focused education for Social Care, Health and Science. Currently there are approximately 3,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students studying across the Faculty in the Schools of Applied Social Studies, Health Sciences, Nursing and Midwifery and Pharmacy and Life Sciences. Our Schools offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate professional qualifying courses, the majority of which are approved by professional and statutory and or regulatory bodies.

These include the Scottish Social Services Council, General Pharmaceutical Council, the Health Professionals Council, as well as the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

The Faculty takes pride in preparing students to meet the ever changing needs of the Health and Social Care sectors and the advances in laboratory science, so that, as graduates, they can make a contribution to meeting the needs and expectations of patients and clients, as well as supporting our local communities and the wider population.

Inter-professional Education (IPE) is a key component in the majority of our courses. Working in interdisciplinary teams and learning alongside a range of other professionals provides students with an invaluable experience that reflects the workplace of today.

The Practice Development and the Pharmacy Practice Centres play a key role in preparing students for placement and

4

future practice. These Centres are recognised as leading the

Certificate Mental Health Officer Award and the Graduate

field in simulation and offer students the opportunity for the

Certificate Practise Learning Qual (Social Services) as well

development of professional skills. The use of Volunteer Patients

as courses for assistant practitioners for example the DipHE

further enhances the fidelity of this learning experience. The

Radiographic Studies.

strong practice focus of all of the courses ensures that all our graduates are fit for purpose when they enter the workplace. As

Building on the Faculty’s outstanding performance in the 2008

a result the Faculty enjoys an excellent reputation for the quality

Research Assessment Exercise, the University has established

of its graduates who are in high demand by employers both in

three Research Institutes to continue the development of

the UK and increasingly internationally.

multidisciplinary research. Staff continue to be successful in attracting research grants from a range of funding bodies and

Working in partnership with our stakeholders we have

organizations including the Chief Scientist’s Office, the Scottish

developed a range of courses to meet the needs of the public

Government Health Department, Local Authorities, the

sector for role development, service redesign and continuing

Scottish Government, and the Ministry of Defence.

professional development. Examples include the Postgraduate

5

SCHOOL OF APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES

THE SCHOOL OF APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES IS ONE OF

Looked after Children in Scotland (CELCIS). The School was

FOUR SCHOOLS WITHIN THE FACULTY OF HEALTH

the first provider of distance learning Social Work education in

AND SOCIAL CARE AND IS THE LARGEST PROVIDER

the United Kingdom.

OF SOCIAL WORK EDUCATION IN SCOTLAND. IT

The School is committed to its successful working partnership

HAS APPROXIMATELY 610 UNDERGRADUATE AND

with Social Work agencies, which contribute to its outstanding

POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS AND 360 DISTANCE

graduate employment record through the close involvement

LEARNING STUDENTS.

of employers and practitioners in course planning, delivery and practice supervision. The School also benefits from a high level

Recognised as leaders in its field by the Scottish Government,

of involvement from service users and carers in the selection of

the School is well known and respected throughout the UK,

its Social Work students, and in their subsequent teaching and

particularly with organisations such as Centre for Excellence for

assessment. These partnerships ensure that all its courses are

6

always relevant to current practice. The School has a growing

Methods. The School’s staff provide the students with a

research profile in Sociology and Psychology with staff research

creative range of learning experiences integrating e-learning,

and publications in these disciplines underpinning the BA

face to face teaching and skills development. The enthusiasm

(Hons) Applied Social Sciences degree.

and commitment of the School’s staff is highly valued by students and is reflected by the excellent student feedback

The School currently has around 45 academic staff delivering

described by the National Student Survey (NSS).

its courses. Over half of the academic staff are qualified and experienced Social Work practitioners who have specialist

The School is actively involved in offering Continuing

knowledge of a wide range of Social Work settings. These

Professional Development to those staff who are working in

include, child care, older people, disability, social work law,

Social Work/Social Care and many other areas of work. This

social work methods, substance misuse, criminal justice,

includes staff who are working for Local Authorities, Health

residential and community care. Other staff have a variety

Trusts, the Third Sector and Private Organisations. The School

of academic social science backgrounds in; Psychology,

provides post qualifying courses in Social Work/Social Care

Sociology, Law, Social Philosophy/Ethics and Research

and contributes to the practice teaching and Mental Health Officer training programmes in the North East of Scotland.

7

The School has received a number of accolades over the years.

Working in collaboration with the University’s own Aberdeen Business School and an external training provider, the Taylor Clarke Partnership, the School won “The Scottish Training Award – Partnership and Collaboration” for the development and delivery of a leadership course for Social Work middle managers.

This provision was commissioned and funded by the Scottish Executive/Scottish Government.

The School is also committed to Inter-Professional Education.

The underpinning philosophy for IPE is to achieve the goal of developing practitioners who are confident and comfortable with their uni-professional identity and capable of embracing inter-professional collaboration and team working for the

Social Work

benefit of quality care. The main stakeholders of the Aberdeen IPE initiative are the Faculty of Health and Social Care at Robert

All our Social Work courses provide the knowledge and skills

Gordon University including the Schools of Applied Social

necessary for registration with the Scottish Social Services

Studies, Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Health Sciences, and the

Council. Currently the Social Work group provides three

School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Aberdeen. Ten

undergraduate courses leading to the BA (Hons) Social Work

disciplines are involved: Diagnostic Radiography, Dietetics,

(one full-time and two distance learning); a Postgraduate

Medicine, Midwifery, Nursing, Nutrition, Occupational

Diploma / MSc Social Work; and an array of short courses

Therapy, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Social Work.

and post-qualifying courses. The School is part of the Centre for Excellence for Looked after Children in Scotland (CELCIS) and provides education, training and consultancy to staff in

UNDERGRADUATE AND POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES

residential child care units.

The School of Applied Social Studies delivers the following Students are taught about all aspects of Social Work practice,

courses:

including community and residential care, Social Work with

BA (Hons) Applied Social Sciences BA (Hons) Social Work (SSSC*) BA (Hons) Social Work by Distance Learning (SSSC) BA (Hons) Social Work (Residential Child Care) by Distance Learning (SSSC) PGDip/MSc Social Work (SSSC) Graduate Certificate Practice Learning Qualification (Social Services) (SSSC) Post Graduate Certificate Mental Health Officer Award (SSSC) Graduate Certificate Working with Abuse and Abuse Related Trauma

families and children and within the criminal justice system along with sociology, psychology, ethics, assessment, intervention and law. Those students undertaking an Honours degree are, in addition, introduced to management, interdisciplinary work, research and evaluation of practice/ service delivery.

Applied Social Sciences

*Scottish Social Services Council

The BA (Hons) Applied Social Sciences offers modules in psychology, sociology, politics, social policy and health. The course prepares students for employment in many fields of

8

people-centred work such as the Social Care professions,

School is also a major publisher text books in Social Work and

further research, teaching, human resource management

the Social Sciences.

and the police. The emphasis throughout the course is on the applied nature of the subjects studied, thus equipping students

A number of staff from the School are seconded to one of

with key transferable and employment-related skills giving

two of the University’s Research Institutes: The Institute of

graduates a wide range of employment opportunities.

Health and Welfare Research or The Institute for Management, Governance and Society Research. The Institute for Health and

RESEARCH

Welfare Research is a multi-disciplinary research centre that focuses its activities on addressing major issues around the

The School of Applied Social Studies are committed to

diagnosis, prevention, treatment, care and welfare of patients.

conducting high-quality research in Psychology, Social Work and

The Institute for Management, Governance and Society

Sociology. The School’s policy based and theoretically informed

Research’s mission is to enable excellence in multidisciplinary

empirical research reflects its engagement with academic and

research, high value knowledge-based solutions; and

public sector stakeholders in local, national and international

empowerment of enterprise, business development,

issues. Innovative research is undertaken within the academic

management and governance within a global knowledge

disciplines and in interdisciplinary collaborations within the

society.

School and University and with other institutions. The School encourages specialised expertise in research-led teaching within

Staff Resources

an inclusive research culture that extends to postgraduates

The School is managed by the Head of School who is

and undergraduates. The success of this can be measured by

supported by an Associate Head, an Administration Manager

the School’s burgeoning research activities and the extent that

and a number of senior lecturers. The administrative staff

research underpins its highly regarded teaching programmes.

report to the School Administration Manager.

Key areas of research within the School include the sociology

The staff complement comprises 7 senior lecturers, 38 lecturers

of Islam, homelessness, wellbeing in schools, the emotional

and 10 administrative staff.

sociology of health, substance abuse and self harm. The

9

A CLEAR FUTURE ROBERT GORDON UNIVERSITY HAS A VERY CLEAR

• Sustain our Scottish Funding Council and international

FUTURE, SET OUT IN OUR STRATEGIC PLAN.

student numbers in a more challenging competitive

BUILDING ON OUR STRENGTHS AND OUR PROGRESS

environment • Generate a major revenue stream from business interaction

TO DATE, WE ARE ONE OF THE BEST MODERN

activities for the value that we add

UNIVERSITIES IN THE UK, IN AN INCREASINGLY

• A relentless focus on quality which will help to maintain

CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT

and develop our reputation – an excellent student experience from first point of contact through every

In achieving our objectives, we will be clear about the markets

interface we have with students

which we serve and the services we deliver. We will be

• A focused research portfolio which underpins teaching, is

responsive to the changing environment and developments

of international standing and is financially sustainable

in the economy and society. Ongoing development and

• A workforce which is committed, resourceful and effective

continuous improvement will help to ensure that we set the

• Continued financial health

benchmark for quality in all aspects of our work.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

In order to monitor progress at Board of Governors’ level, a

• Student experience: Enrich the all-round experience of our

set of six key high level performance indicators (KPI) has been

students through their engagement with the University

agreed. These monitor the impact of our success or otherwise

• Teaching and learning: Enhance the quality and relevance

in relation to our key strategic objectives and against the critical

of our taught provision

success factors indentified above.

• Access for all: Increase the diversification of our student population

• Level of total SFC teaching funding and proportion of total

• Learning through life: Expand our provision of corporate

SFC teaching allocation compared with previous years

programmes and life-long learning opportunities

• Level and geographical sources of income from

• Research and commercialisation: Grow our

international students compared with previous years

internationally excellent research and knowledge

• Net financial contribution from business interaction over time

exchange activities and reputation

• Level of research grant and contract income and % full

• A sustainable future: Secure our economic and

economic cost recovery over time

environmental sustainability

• Net surplus, current ratio and borrowing over time • Consistent high performance within the modern university

CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS

sector in national league tables

We have assessed the factors which will be critical to our success as follows:

10

11

THE PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY

‘PROFESSIONAL’ IS OUR WATCHWORD FOR THE WAY WE TREAT ALL OUR STAKEHOLDERS, INCLUDING AND ESPECIALLY OUR STUDENTS. IT GUIDES THE WAY WE WORK TOGETHER, AND DEFINES WHAT WE EXPECT FROM EACH OTHER.

12

“The partnership we have with Robert Gordon University not only helps to verify the high quality of learning we provide for our people, but it also leads to a formal qualification at degree level, which both Shell and our staff see as valuable.”

Adam Lomas Vice President, EP Learning & Development, Shell

THE UNIVERSITY TODAY The University generates an annual group income of around £94 million through corporate programmes, consultancy and other business engagement, research income and fee paying or funded students.

We currently employ approximately 1600 members of staff and deliver courses to around 16,500 students.

Of the 16,500 students: 22% are engaged in distance learning and corporate courses 60% Full time and 40% Part time 64% Undergraduate and 36% Postgraduate students Of the Undergraduates: 27% attend Aberdeen Business School 27% enrolled in Design and Technology courses 46% enrolled in Health and Social Care courses Of the Postgraduates: 57% in Aberdeen Business School 24% in Design and Technology courses 19% in Health and Social Care courses We offer an impressive range of professionally focused courses across the arts and design, management, engineering and

OUR HERITAGE

computing, health and social care and the applied sciences and

The name Robert Gordon has been synonymous with

technology. We are particularly focused on developing our key

education in Aberdeen since 1750 when the original college

areas of strength – energy, health and social care, the creative

was founded from his bequest. With the addition of Gray’s

industries and the knowledge economy.

School of Art in 1885, the School of Pharmacy in 1898 and the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture in 1957, the original college has evolved over the years into a substantial university – a leading institution of learning still able to draw upon this

“Robert Gordon’s branding as ‘the professional

rich heritage.

university’ couldn’t be more appropriate. It beats every other university in the most recent employment figures.”

Sunday Times

13

THE VIRTUAL CAMPUS The University has established a significant e-Learning capability, based around the ‘Model’ virtual learning environment. This is used to support an extensive range of distance learning courses and to support the learning of on-campus students in blended approaches. Effective use of appropriate technologies is a key element of the University’s plans to extend distance learning provision, including corporate learning, and to enhance the learning experience of all students. We are, we believe, the largest provider of online, distance learning in the UK after the Open University. With this in mind, we are currently reviewing our provision, marketing and corporate branding to ensure we are capitalising on this USP. INTERNATIONAL Our strategy is of ‘internationalisation’ of the total student experience for all students. This includes the curriculum, work placements and the wider experience they have interacting with our staff and the community. International students have long been attracted to Robert Gordon University and contributed much to our cultural fabric. Indeed, in recent years, increasing numbers of international students have made ours a truly international campus. 19% of the total student population come from outside the EU. Expanding our cultural and commercial links with overseas organisations has helped to create many exciting opportunities for our staff and students to work abroad.

Our commitment to internationalisation is evident in the establishment of an International College at the University in

ABERDEEN COLLEGE – AN ASSOCIATE COLLEGE

partnership with Navitas. Following the launch of the College

The strength of our regional commitment and also our

in September 2011, we expect to significantly increase our

understanding of the social inclusion wider access agenda is

recruitment of international undergraduate students at a time

reflected in our partnership with Aberdeen College, the largest

when our recruitment of international postgraduate students is

FE College in Scotland. This is a truly outstanding alliance

coming under greater pressure.

recognised by the Scottish Funding Council as a model for others. The College is an associated college of the University and there are articulation agreements across many subject areas leading to 2+1 and 2+2 progression.

14

COMMERCIAL LINKS

Additionally, our commercial organisation, Univation Ltd, continues to develop strong commercial relationships with

Our strong links with industry have delivered corporate alliances,

major energy organisations worldwide and a marketing

CPD programmes and consultancy both in the UK and overseas.

presence across the globe, bringing significant corporate

The deployment of blended learning through the Moodle

contracts for delivery in the UK and overseas.

Virtual Learning Environment is further expanding our capability for working with corporate partners and SMEs. Enterprising research is undertaken by groups throughout the University and the results contribute to technology transfer and ‘spin outs’. We have been especially successful in SMART awards.

15

TRACK RECORD LEAGUE TABLES

As we build on the University’s success beyond RAE, we

“Now the top modern University in Britain and shortlisted for the University of the year, a degree from Robert Gordon University is a close to a guaranteed job as you can get.”

aim, through the establishment of three Research Institutes,

– The Times Good University Guide, 11 Sept 2011

areas by focused investment on areas of research strength. The

to grow the level of internationally excellent research. These institutes will develop the potential of strategically significant University has also demonstrated important success in research

For four successive years, Robert Gordon University has

commercialisation and has established a relationship with the

retained the position of best modern university in the UK

venture capital company Sigma IP Ltd.

(The Times Sep 11) and we consistently maintain one of the UK’s best graduate employment records. In 2011 The Times, The Guardian and The Independent all rated Robert Gordon University the top university in Scotland for Graduate employment. The Sunday Times noted in September 2011 that 84.9% of graduates secure jobs commensurate with their qualifications.

RAE RESULTS “Together with a strong performance in last year’s research assessment, this helps RGU to its highest ever ranking in our table,ranking second in the modern university sector.”

- The Sunday Times (13 September 2009)

In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, Robert Gordon University achieved outstanding results with over 70% of research being classified as of international quality. At the same time, the Scottish Funding Council announced an increase in our research grant funding of 99% to £2.7m for 2009/2010 the highest increase of any Scottish university.

The University aims to focus its research and knowledge transfer activities to inform and underpin our teaching capability. A £6 million seed-corn funding was invested in a research development initiative over 3 years to grow research activity across the University. The success of this investment was demonstrated in the results of the 2008 (RAE). The University was ranked the top modern Scottish University for research quality, with ‘world class’ research activity in 8 out of the 11 subjects returned. In addition 73% of research conducted was ranked as being of international quality.

16

one campus, one vision - garthdee 2020

THE UNIVERSITY PREPARED AND APPROVED ITS ESTATES STRATEGY IN 1994, COVERING A 20-25 YEAR PLANNING PERIOD. WE NOW HAVE ONE VISION FOR THE FUTURE – TO LOCATE ALL OUR STAFF AND STUDENTS, BY 2020, ON ONE CAMPUS AT THE STUNNING RIVERSIDE SETTING OF GARTHDEE. The first phase, the consolidation of six sites into two, (Garthdee

THE MASTERPLAN 2009 AIMS TO:

and Schoolhill) was essentially complete by 2004. To date we

• Consolidate all academic and administrative activities on

have invested over £100 million in new buildings and upgrading

the Garthdee Campus site in order to create the finest

facilities for students. These have included the Aberdeen

riverside learning environment in Europe

Business School, the Faculty of Health and Social Care, as well

• Create a clearly legible campus heart, focused around a

as a state of the art Sports Centre, modern onsite nursery and a

student-centred experience

health centre open to staff, students and the local community.

• Develop a new and unified academic development on the eastern portion of the site in order to gain from the

We have recently secured full planning consent for the

advantages of co-location and collaboration between

Masterplan 2009 – likely to be a two phase, 10 year development

disciplines

and refurbishment programme, adding 34,000 m2 of new

• Retain and enhance the landscaped qualities of the site

facilities and culminating in the realisation of our vision – one

and seek to achieve a stronger relationship between

campus at Garthdee by 2020.

“In the past decade, the university has invested more than £100m to improve its facilities, and intends to make the Garthdee site ‘the best riverside campus in Europe.”

• Develop the Garthdee Campus in a sustainable, phased

The Guardian (12 May 2009)

• Re-utilise appropriate areas within existing buildings to

buildings and the riverside setting manner reflecting the availability of project funding form a more holistic and integrated campus

“Among the generation of new universities, Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen is the best placed.”

• Develop a new focus for arrival/entrance from the south, including a new pedestrian and cycle bridge to the south

The Times (June 2008)

17

side of the river

ROLE PROFILE HEAD OF SCHOOL OF APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES

PURPOSE OF THE POST :

DUTIES :

The Head of Applied Social Studies is accountable to the

• Implementing the academic programme of the School as

Principal and Vice-Chancellor, reporting directly to the Dean of

determined by the Academic Council within the School Plan

Faculty, for the achievement of the School’s own future vision

and subsequent changes, from time to time.

and mission as a key component of the University’s strategic plan

• Overseeing the academic work of the School including the

a Clear Future.

annual appraisal and the periodic review of courses.

• Co-ordinating the work of the School with that of other

RESPONSIBLE TO:

Schools within the Faculty and University.

• Overseeing the arrangements for the admission of students,

The Head of the School of Applied Social Studies is directly

provision of classes and assessment of students.

responsible to the Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Care,

• Keeping records of the work of the School including the

for providing leadership within the policies and procedures

performance of students and the utilisation of resources.

laid down from time to time by the Board of Governors, the

• Maintaining staff and student discipline within the School.

Academic Council, and the Principal and Vice-Chancellor.

• Appraising staff performance and making arrangements for the development of staff.

RESPONSIBLE FOR:

• Encouraging and promoting staff research and scholarly

• Providing visible leadership and focus for the future

activities.

development of the School within the context of existing

• Liaising with key stakeholders and schools, including the

and future strategic plans.

preparation of publicity material.

• Ensuring that the University’s ambitions to provide excellent

• Undertaking teaching and research as appropriate.

professional education and applied research are fully

• Preparing estimates of resources required.

articulated in School plans and effectively delivered.

• Deploying available resources in the way that is

• Maintaining close liaison with the Research Institutes in

educationally and economically most effective, and in

order to ensure the continued development of research

accordance with the University’s health & safety policies.

within the subject specialisms of the School.

• Monitoring the arrangements for the maintenance of

• Liaising closely with social care, private and voluntary

equipment, furnishings and facilities available to the School.

sectors to ensure that appropriate undergraduate, post-

• Timeously preparing and submitting factual information

graduate and CPD courses are provided to meet the

about the work of the School required by senior

requirements of the external marketplace.

management for internal use, or to meet the requirements

• Deploying resources across the School and monitoring their

of external authorities.

subsequent use.

• Participating in the committee work of the University.

• Networking, collaborating and partnering with employers

• Developing and implementing a health and safety plan for

and other relevant organisations, professional bodies,

the School such other duties as may be assigned from time

private sector etc. to promote the interests of the School,

to time.

the Faculty and the University.

• Managing and overseeing the future development of curriculum, courses, and scholarship.

• Business interaction/diversification of income streams.

18

CANDIDATE PROFILE

We would expect that candidates would fit closely the

In addition, the management team agreed 12 critical leadership

following profile:

behaviours that all managers should exhibit or plan to develop:

• An inspirational and democratic leader with the credibility

• Communicates a clear and consistent vision (or plan)

and confidence to apply strong management across the

with commitment

diverse disciplines within the school

• Champions change – able to engage others and enhance

• Possesses the vision, passion and personal commitment

buy-in

to the advancement of Applied Social Studies and Social

• Treats people with respect

Work within a modern, practice based University.

• Demonstrates integrity and high ethical standards

• An ability to set the context and strategic direction that will

• Sets and sustains high personal standards of delivery

transform and enable the School to meet the challenges of

• Is decisive, particularly when confronted with

the 21st century

challenging issues

• Significant experience in social work, sociology or

• Able to adapt and capitalise on new opportunities

psychology education or practice with a passion to create a

• Builds effective relationships

modern, innovative, learning environment.

• Builds effective team performance

• A clear commitment to the values of Higher Education

• Openly encourages and recognises the contribution of others

and specifically to the vision, mission and priorities of the

• Gives constructive feedback on a regular basis

university

• Encourages personal development and provides

• An appropriate professional qualification(s) in social

appropriate opportunities.

work, sociology or psychology with evidence of relevant continuous professional development. PhD or research capability preferred • A strong financial manager with the business acumen to both capitalise on opportunities and manage challenges • An alliances and partnerships builder, internally and particularly externally, through strong stakeholder networking, political and relationship building skills • A proven manager of change within a complex, challenging and dynamic environment • An ability to act in a leadership capacity as a research enabler, with a strong awareness of the research agenda • An ability to translate vision into strategy and success over a 3-5 year horizon • A developer of staff and a“self-developer” • A highly effective communicator , with particular evidence of persuading, influencing and presentational skills.

19

ABERDEEN CITY AND SHIRE

20

ROBERT GORDON UNIVERSITY IS LOCATED IN ABERDEEN WHICH IS SCOTLAND’S THIRD LARGEST CITY WITH A POPULATION IN EXCESS OF 200,000 AND 400,000 INCLUDING THE WIDER ABERDEEN HINTERLAND. THE MERCER 2010 ‘QUALITY OF LIVING’ SURVEY RECENTLY RATED ABERDEEN AS ONE OF THE TOP WORLD CITIES AND SECOND ONLY TO LONDON IN THE UK. The city is known internationally as the undisputed European capital of the energy industry. However, it also has many other sides to its character. Not least because it is located on the edge of the world renowned Scottish Highlands and the spectacular Cairngorms - a magnet for walkers, climbers and skiers from across the UK. Aberdeen is undeniably a wealthy city; it has one of the highest per capita incomes of any city after London in the UK. Such prosperity brings many benefits. The city boasts first-class facilities. Shopping and leisure opportunities are constantly expanding. Schooling at all levels is well catered for – with secondary schooling, in particular, recognised for its quality in both the public and private sectors. The hotel sector continues to expand its full range of provision as you would expect of an energy capital.

Aberdeen also offers a fine array of cultural attractions. There is an eclectic mix of bars, cafés and restaurants and a host of modern entertainments including cinemas, theatres, museums, galleries and concert halls. And, throughout the year, Aberdeen also plays host to several entertaining and stimulating festivals including the Aberdeen Alternative Festival and the International Youth Festival.

Aberdeen International Airport has direct connections with the major ‘hub’ airports of Paris, Amsterdam and Oslo as well as London (Gatwick, Heathrow and Luton) and Dublin. It also has established connections with a wide range of other major UK cities.

USEFUL LINKS To view our interactive site on Aberdeenshire, with excellent information on education, health, housing, transport and weather, please visit: www2.rgu.ac.uk/aberdeenshire/

21

CORPORATE MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

STRATEGIC PLANNING AND RESOURCES GROUP (SPARG)

The Board of Governors of the University is constituted in accordance with The Robert Gordon University (Scotland)

In ensuring the efficient management of the University, the

Order of Council 2006. The Board is composed of appointed

Principal & Vice Chancellor is assisted and supported by the

and elected Governors who have experience of higher

Strategic Planning and Resources Group (SPARG) which

education, industrial, commercial, and public service sectors

comprises four Vice-Principals and Pro Vice Chancellors (one

and a wide range of professional practice. Staff and Student

of which is ‘senior’ and is the Deputy P&VC), two Executive

Governors are elected and have equal standing with those

Directors, Human Resources and Information Technology,

others who are appointed.

three Deans of Faculty and two other Deans (Learning

Enhancement and Students). The four Vice-Principals each

The Board of Governors has the following standing committees -

carry a specific strategic role focussed on the planning and

Chairman’s Committee

resources, teaching, research and student experience agendas

Staff Governance Committee

and all members of SPARG carry wider portfolios which may

Audit Committee

change over time.

Finance and General Purposes Committee Nominations Committee

SENIOR MANAGEMENT GROUP (SMG)

Remuneration Committee.

The Senior Management Group comprises all Heads of School and appropriate Heads of Department within the University.

THE ACADEMIC COUNCIL

The SMG was established following a review of ‘involvement’

The Board are required to delegate to the Academic Council

and communications to facilitate better and more frequent

those functions relating to the planning, co-ordination,

involvement in policy development and a better flow of

development and supervision of the academic work of the

information across the whole University. This group has regular

University. Academic Council is chaired by the Principal &

meetings with SPARG.

Vice Chancellor. Much of the work of the Academic Council is delivered through standing committees, sub-committees,

For further information, please visit:

Faculty Boards, School Committees and course panels. As

www.rgu.ac.uk/about/senior-management

a result a large proportion of the University community are involved in its activities. The Principal reports to the Board of Governors on the work of the Academic Council regularly.

THE ROLE OF THE PRINCIPAL & VICE CHANCELLOR The Board of Governors is required to delegate to the Principal & Vice Chancellor those functions relating to the organisation and management of the University. The Principal & Vice Chancellor is the chief academic, administrative and accounting officer for the University, effectively the “Chief Executive”.

22

SENIOR MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION CHART

Principal & Vice-Chancellor Secretary to the Board

Policy Advisor Deputy Principal & Vice-Chancellor (Academic Development & Quality)

Vice Principal & Pro Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience & External Relations)

Vice Principal & Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research & Commercialisation)

Dean of Students

Student Services

Vice Principal & Pro Vice-Chancellor (Planning & Resources)

University Solicitor

Research & Enterprise Services

Finance & Procurement Estates & Property Services RGU: SPORT

Marketing, Communications & Student Recruitment Development Office Student Administration Business Development Services

Planning

Executive Director (Human Resources)

Dean for the Enhancement of Learning, Teaching & Assessment

Dean of Aberdeen Business School

Dean of Faculty of Design & Technology

Department for the Enhancement of Learning, Teaching & Assessment

Department of Accounting & Finance

School of Computing

Department of Communication, Marketing & Media

School of Engineering

Department of Information Management Department of Law Department of Management Institute for Management, Governance and Society (IMaGeS)

23

Gray’s School of Art The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture & Built Environment Institute for Innovation, DEsign And Sustainability (IDEAS) Research

Executive Director (Information Technology & Communication)

Dean of Faculty of Health & Social Care

School of Applied Social Studies School of Health Sciences

Academic Affairs (inc. Research Degrees Office)

Human Resources

Library Services

Organisation Development & Leadership

School of Nursing & Midwifery

Occupational & Environmental Health & Safety

School of Pharmacy & Life Sciences

The Gatehouse Design & Print Consultancy

Institute for Health and Welfare Research

IT Services Records Management

SUMMARY OF CONTRACT TERMS & CONDITIONS SALARY

the University’s influence and reputation. However this can also lead to conflicts of interest and it is in the best interests of all stakeholders if other activities are declared, reviewed and properly approved. An annual declaration is also required by the Principal, SPARG and most other senior managers.

The salary for this appointment is £65843-72337.

EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE REVIEW You will be required to maintain your expertise and professional membership (where relevant), to undertake programmes of personal development, and to participate in the employee performance review process.

Our contracts include appropriate clauses that preserve for the University the right to confidentiality of its legitimate commercial interests and other rights over material property in its ownership.

ANNUAL LEAVE

RELOCATION

You will be entitled to 33 days annual leave with pay per annum in addition to 10 Fixed Public and Statutory Holidays.

We will agree with the successful candidate relocation assistance appropriate to his/her particular circumstances, with a maximum allowance of 12% of salary (subject to Inland Revenue conditions and terms of the Relocation Policy). You will be required to reside in Aberdeen or within 30 minutes travel to work distance of it.

PENSION We operate under the Scottish Teachers and Local Government Pension Schemes. Contributions are made by employer and employee and they are both “final salary” schemes incorporating ill health and death benefits. The schemes are widely recognised as excellent schemes. If you have a personal pension we will discuss with you the most appropriate arrangements.

OTHER BENEFITS You will have access to a range of voluntary and salary sacrifice benefits, including personal healthcare, dental plans, health cash plans, childcare vouchers and cycle to work schemes, as well as an onsite Sports Centre and Nursery.

FORM OF CONTRACT & NOTICE PERIOD The contract offered is expected to be a normal substantive contract. The notice period is negotiable but we would expect it to be not less than 6 months. However, there may be candidates for whom other forms of contractual arrangement would be beneficial and, at this stage, we are open minded as to the final outcome.

We are keen to ensure that your career move is appropriately rewarded and if circumstances dictate, we will discuss the terms of the overall package with the successful candidate. Unfortunately we are unable to offer car, car loan or leasing arrangements.

SICK PAY

PRE-EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL

Sick Pay entitlement is generous (up to six months full pay and six months half pay) as would be expected under public service scheme arrangements, however, in the event of long term ill health, we reserve the right to seek early medical evaluation.

A comprehensive pre-employment medical will be required of the successful candidate.

DISCLOSURE SCOTLAND

CONFLICT OF INTEREST, CONFIDENTIALITY & INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

A Disclosure Scotland check will be requested for the successful applicant

We will expect that all other paid or unpaid appointment or employments are declared as a part of the appointment process. We encourage appropriate external activity within the higher education community and beyond as this can enhance

24

HOW TO APPLY We have appointed research specialists, the Write Research Company to conduct the initial research and pre-selection process.

For more information and to apply, contact: Katy Burridge on 0191 250 4955 katy@writeresearchcompany.com We intend to notify shortlisted candidates before the the end of April. Interviews should take place early to mid-May.

25

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee Campus, Garthdee Road, Aberdeen, AB10 7QE, United Kingdom Produced by The Gatehouse Design & Print Consultancy at Robert Gordon University Robert Gordon University, a Scottish Charity registered under charity number SC013781

26