The Role - Interim Head of Programme
We are seeking an interim Head of Programme to take on the leadership of the Visual Communication MA for a period of 12 months from 31 August 2026.
The role will provide academic, operational, and strategic leadership throughout AY2026/27.
AY2026/27 will be an important year for the programme, as it delivers the programme in a new interim structure, including a new Core Skills unit, and transitions towards a revised structure in line with the College’s new Academic Framework, and prepares for relocation to the Kensington campus. As the programme will be positioned within the new School of Communication & Design, 26/27 will also provide opportunities to consider synergies with other programmes across communication and design, and explore how these may enhance the programme.
The role holder will also have a key role in planning for AY2027/28 delivery including Major Modifications to bring the programme in line with the new Academic Framework. This is a curriculum development opportunity that will begin to shape the future programme, including ensuring the currency of its curriculum, its disciplinary identity, and preparedness for the relocation to new studio spaces.
This role is a leadership development opportunity for Tutors and Senior Tutors. The role is open to all Tutors or Senior Tutors in the current School of Communication, and will be appointed on a 1 FTE basis, at SM1.
Key details:
Job title: Head of Programme (Interim) MA Visual Communication
FTE: 1.0 FTE
Contract type: Fixed term
Duration: 1 year
If you have any questions about this role, please contact Barbara Brownie barbara.brownie@rca.ac.uk
The closing date for applications is 19 August 2026, through short application form with upload for covering letter and CV. The covering letter should address the following key criteria:
Key Criteria:
Academic leadership: Can you provide examples of your experience in leading initiatives within a unit or programme that resulted in significant achievements or improvements?
Team management: Can you describe your approach to successful leadership and management of colleagues?
Enhancements to teaching delivery and curriculum development: How have you successfully delivered initiatives that have enhanced teaching delivery and introduced new approaches to the curriculum?
Success at improving student experience: can you provide evidence of a track record of successful initiatives that have improved the student experience?
We aim to hold interviews before the end of August, on dates negotiated around the summer availability of shortlisted candidates.
RCA Benefits available here: https://www.rca.ac.uk/more/work-at-the-rca/staff-benefits/
The Royal College of Art (RCA) aims to foster an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students and stakeholders are respected.
We recognise the broad range of experiences that a diverse staff and student body brings and how this strengthens our research and enhances our teaching. In order for RCA to remain a world-leading institution we are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout all of our processes, from application through to appointment.
Please tell us if you need any assistance in applying or if you need the information in a different format. In your message to resourcing@rca.ac.uk include:
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