From pioneering economic thought with Adam Smith to leading influential research and engaging with industry, the University of Glasgow has been changing the world since 1451. As the fourth oldest university in the English-speaking world, Glasgow has always been at the forefront of innovation, transforming lives and making a world-changing impact for almost 600 years. Named Scottish University of the Year by The Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024, we are a top 100 university in the world and home to the renowned Adam Smith Business School.

With a world-renowned reputation for world-leading research and impact, Adam Smith Business School follows Smith’s legacy by developing enlightened, engaged and enterprising graduates who are globally recognized and make a positive impact on culture and society. As the university’s largest college, Adam Smith Business School is a center for forward-thinking education and a vibrant academic community that plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of global business leaders.

The University of Glasgow is now looking for an outstanding academic leader to take on the role of Head of Adam Smith Business School. The post holder will be responsible for providing strategic and academic leadership, vision and direction to the school, as well as playing a key role as a senior leader within the college and wider university. The successful candidate will ensure that the School continues to excel in learning, teaching, research and engagement at an international level.

The Head of School will have an excellent reputation in research and teaching with proven leadership and management credentials, an inclusive collaborative approach and able to build positive relationships internally and externally. Housed within the new Adam Smith Building, the Headteacher will have the opportunity to utilize state-of-the-art resources to enhance the School’s reputation and global impact.

The University has appointed global executive search firm Perrett Laver to support the recruitment of the Head of School. For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Eljoh Balajadia at Perrett Laver via eljoh.balajadia@perrettlaver.com.

The University wants to encourage applications that will continue to enhance the diversity of its leadership team.

For more details, including job description, person specifications and information on how to apply, please visit the website https://plusportal.perrettlaver.com/ Quoted from a reference GR-0183.

The deadline for submitting the application is 09:00 AM GMT on Friday 7th^y November 2025.

Standard terms and conditions

Individuals are appointed to the position of Head of School for a period of primarily 4 years. Subject to satisfactory performance, appointments may be renewed on a mutually agreed basis, usually for an additional period of two years.

The Headteacher will become a key member of staff within the School on leaving their position.

Relocation assistance will be provided where appropriate.