Chair of the Institute for Community Research and Development
The University of Wolverhampton is seeking to appoint a new Chair (Director) of the highly successful Institute for Community Research and Development (ICRD).
Institute Overview
Launched in 2017, ICRD works to improve the lives and life chances of people in the region through research‑driven policy development, promoting social mobility, and delivering effective community‑based transformational projects. ICRD uses interdisciplinary expertise to affect positive change by working collaboratively with local communities and partnership networks.
ICRD undertakes research across four key themes: Social and Community Wellbeing; Criminal Justice and Violence Prevention; Tackling Inequalities through Heritage and the Arts; and Migration and Mobilities.
Research Methods & Services
* The ICRD model of Community and Peer Research
* Research and evaluation that supports developments in policy and practice
* Robust qualitative and quantitative research methods
Chair Responsibilities & Qualifications
To be successful in this role you will hold a PhD (or equivalent) and have significant senior‑level experience. You will be a recognised international authority in a discipline relevant to ICRD's themes and will have a demonstrable, impactful portfolio of research publications and societal impact.
You will have a proven track record of leadership and mentorship, building and managing a high‑performing research team. You will be a Reader or Professor (or equivalent) with considerable experience of research in the community, aligned to one or more of ICRD’s core themes and with a very strong research profile in disciplines such as social policy, sociology, public policy, public sector reform, social welfare, community health and wellbeing, applied psychology, mental health, or criminal justice.
You will have strong skills in securing external funding, leading interdisciplinary teams, and delivering research projects. You will be able to develop and deliver short‑course and CPD programmes for community partners, collaborating effectively with research, practice, third sector and lay communities. You will be committed to the continued development of ICRD and to ensuring its activities achieve maximum impact.
There will be opportunities to contribute to postgraduate supervision and teaching.
Staff Benefits
* Competitive salaries
* Standard Life Pension scheme – with employer contribution of up to 12% to the University’s defined contribution scheme
* Long Service Recognition – £200 gift voucher, certificate, and afternoon tea for 25 & 40 years of service
* Free Will Writing Service – Complimentary will drafting for employees and partners
* IT & Mobile Discounts – EE Perk (20% off for family & friends) & software discounts
Supporting Your Health & Wellbeing
* Wellbeing and Mental Health Support – 24/7 access to EAP service, free counselling sessions, wellbeing resources and Occupational Health Service
* Gym memberships discounts – at Walsall Campus and discounts at WV Active sites in Wolverhampton
* Eyecare Support – Free eVoucher for eye tests and glasses contribution
* Flu Vouchers – Free flu vaccinations for staff
* Paycare Health Benefit Plan – Covers optical, dental, physiotherapy, and personal accident insurance
* Chaplaincy & Prayer Rooms – Access to multi-faith chaplaincy services
Valuing You
* Generous Annual Leave (see table below)
* Flexible & Agile Working – Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements
* Free On‑site Parking – available across campuses
* Cycle Benefits Scheme – Save up to 42% on a bike & accessories via salary sacrifice
* Employee Discounts – Savings on groceries, fashion, and entertainment
* Travel Discounts – Up to 10% off holidays through Sodexo Circles
Training and Development
* Staff Network and Inclusion – Access to support networks and events with LGBTQ+, Global Majority, Disability, and Women’s networks
* Library Access – Staff have access to books and resources at onsite libraries
* Staff Scholarship Scheme – Funding for part‑time higher education, up to PhD level
* Leadership and Management Development – Access to training opportunities to support advancement in your career
Professor Laura Caulfield welcomes informal conversations about the role. Please email L.Caulfield@wlv.ac.uk
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