Associate Dean - Joint Education Institute (YAU)

The University of Wolverhampton is seeking an exceptional academic leader to drive the continued growth and success of the Joint Education Institute (JEI), delivered in partnership with Yunnan Agricultural University (YAU). This strategic role will shape a thriving transnational STEM portfolio, ensuring high-quality bilingual delivery and regulatory alignment across both the UK and China.

Key Essential Requirements

To succeed in this international leadership role, applicants will need to demonstrate:

• The ability to lead bilingual (English–Mandarin) programme delivery and quality assurance, ensuring curriculum equivalence and academic integrity.
• Significant experience in Sino foreign or transnational education, preferably involving collaboration within China.
• Working knowledge of Chinese Ministry of Education regulatory frameworks, including involvement in inspections, audits or approvals.
• Senior academic leadership experience, including line management, teaching excellence, and curriculum development.
• A PhD (or equivalent) in a Science, Engineering, Computing or related discipline.

• Mandarin language competence (spoken and/or written) is not essential but would be beneficial for engaging effectively with certain stakeholders within the higher education‑ environment.

These requirements reflect the nature and scope of this cross border academic partnership and the level of leadership responsibility expected.

About the Role

You will provide academic and operational leadership across the JEI’s Science and Engineering programmes, supporting curriculum quality, staff development, research activity, industry collaboration and student outcomes. The role also includes representation on joint governance boards and close partnership working with colleagues in both the UK and China.

Further Information

For full details of responsibilities and selection criteria, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: Professor Andy Gibson, Dean of Faculty of Science and Engineering, andy.gibson@wlv.ac.uk

University of Wolverhampton Recruitment Statement

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The University of Wolverhampton is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

We are committed to:

• preventing unlawful discrimination and harassment.
• promoting equality of opportunity.
• fostering an inclusive environment where colleagues are treated with dignity and respect.

We strive to create a workplace in which colleagues have the confidence and freedom to be themselves, while working professionally and in accordance with equality legislation and University policies.

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We want to understand what you personally bring to the role. Please ensure your application accurately represents your own voice and capabilities.

Flexible Working

We recognise the value of flexible working arrangements and are open to discussion wherever possible.