Academic Dean

Role overview

Lancaster University Ghana is inviting applications from an accomplished academic leader to serve as Academic Dean at its Accra campus. This position sits within the only British university campus in sub-Saharan Africa and plays a central role in shaping the academic direction of a growing international institution.

The post offers the chance to support an evolving campus that blends Lancaster University’s global academic reputation with the needs and opportunities of Ghana’s higher education landscape. The Academic Dean will help drive high standards in teaching and learning, strengthen research activity, support student success, and build productive partnerships across the region.

The role reports jointly to Lancaster University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global (Digital, International and Sustainability) and the CEO of TAG Ghana, and forms part of the university’s wider transnational education network.

What this role involves

The successful appointee will work with campus colleagues to enhance academic quality, guide innovative and industry-relevant programmes, support professional growth, and raise the profile of Lancaster University Ghana both in West Africa and internationally.

This position is suited to someone who can balance global priorities with local context, while contributing to a collaborative academic environment and a strong student experience.

Opportunity and impact

• Shape the academic direction of a respected British university campus in Africa
• Help develop a long-standing international university partnership
• Build relationships with industry, government, and academic bodies
• Work alongside Lancaster’s international campuses and transnational Academic Deans
• Support student achievement, graduate outcomes, and regional engagement
• Contribute to globally connected teaching, research, and higher education practice

Candidate profile

We are looking for a reflective and collaborative higher education professional with experience in complex academic settings and a strong grasp of quality assurance, academic governance, and transnational education.

The ideal candidate will bring sound judgement, academic credibility, and the ability to work across cultures, disciplines, and stakeholder groups. An inclusive, collegiate, and people-centred approach is important.

Experience in international higher education, academic partnership work, and regulated environments will be especially useful, as will familiarity with the opportunities and challenges shaping higher education in Africa and globally.

Location and institutional context

The role is based in Accra, the capital of Ghana and a major centre for regional and international connection. Lancaster University is consistently ranked among the UK’s leading universities and is known globally for strong teaching, research, and international engagement. Through campuses and partnerships across Europe, Asia, and Africa, the university aims to deliver education with both global reach and local relevance.

Additional information

Applications are to be submitted through Lancaster University’s recruitment portal. The closing date for applications is 12 July 2026.