West Dean - KLC School of Design
Location:Bloomsbury, LondonSalary:£55,000 to £60,000Hours:Full TimeContract Type:PermanentPlaced On:17th March 2026Closes:13th April 2026Job Ref:312180
Shape the Future of Design Education
This is a rare opportunity to take on a senior academic leadership role at KLC School of Design, part of the internationally recognised West Dean College. Based in Bloomsbury, London, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a distinctive, practice-led design school while helping to develop the next generation of creative professionals.
West Dean is renowned for its excellence in art, craft, conservation and design, with a global reputation for creative education. Since acquiring KLC School of Design in 2021, West Dean has brought together two respected institutions to create a unique environment where professional practice and industry engagement thrive.
As Deputy Head of KLC School of Design, you will help lead the academic direction of the school, champion an outstanding student experience, and support a vibrant community of tutors, designers and practitioners.
About the Role
Reporting to the School’s leadership team, the Deputy Head will provide academic and professional leadership across teaching, staff development and scholarly activity.
You will help shape the strategic direction of the school while overseeing the day-to-day delivery of a rigorous and industry-relevant design curriculum.
This role is ideal for a senior design professional who has transitioned into education, or a hybrid academic-practitioner with strong industry credibility and a passion for mentoring emerging designers.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership across KLC School of Design’s academic portfolio
- Lead and mentor academic leaders, tutors and visiting practitioners
- Shape and continuously improve programmes in response to industry trends and student feedback
- Ensure high standards of academic quality, governance and regulatory compliance
- Champion an outstanding, inclusive student experience from recruitment to graduation
- Contribute to portfolio growth, financial sustainability and student recruitment
- Build and strengthen industry partnerships and external collaborations
- Represent and promote the school within the wider design and creative community
About You
We are looking for an experienced and credible design leader who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery.
You will bring:
- Significant experience leading teams in design, creative industries or education
- Strong professional credibility in interior design, garden design or a related discipline
- Experience of teaching, mentoring or developing others
- Confidence working at senior leadership level with diverse stakeholders
- An understanding of industry expectations and academic quality frameworks
- A passion for supporting talent and shaping contemporary design education
A postgraduate qualification or equivalent professional experience is required.
Why Join West Dean?
West Dean offers a unique creative environment where making, experimentation and scholarship come together.
Benefits include:
- 36 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Generous contributory pension scheme (4–7.5% matched)
- Employee Assistance Programme & Mental Health First Aiders
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Free access to West Dean Gardens and events
- Discounted or free places on West Dean short courses
- Access to facilities including library, swimming pool and tennis courts
If this sounds like the role for you, then apply now via our careers site!
Closing date: 13 April 2026
Interviews: Weeks commencing 4 May and 11 May 2026
Please view the Job Pack Deputy Head of School of Design 03 2026 document (opens in a pop up)