Head of Department for Computer Animation

Bournemouth University’s vision is worldwide recognition as a leading university for inspiring learning, advancing knowledge, and enriching society through the fusion of education, research, and practice. Our highly skilled and creative workforce is comprised of individuals drawn from a broad cross section of the globe, who reflect a variety of backgrounds, talents, perspectives, and experiences that help to build our global learning community.

We are currently seeking a Head of Department for the National Centre for Computer Animation (NCCA) who will build on the Department’s excellent industry reputation to continue delivering on the primary indicators of the BU2025 strategy – inspiring learning, advancing knowledge, and enriching society.

The National Centre for Computer Animation (NCCA) is recognised as the best place in the UK to study computer animation and visual effects, having been at the forefront of computer graphics and animation education and research in the UK since 1989. The NCCA was presented with the Queen’s Anniversary Award in 2011 for its contribution to world-leading excellence and pioneering development in the teaching of computer animation.

The department brings together more than 40 academics and more than 500 students across science and arts disciplines of computer animation and visual effects. Current programmes include Computer Animation Art and Design; Computer Animation Technical Arts; Visual Effects; and 3D Animation; several of which are recognised by ScreenSkills. BU is also one of a small number of institutions who have been granted Houdini Certified School status by Side Effects Software, whilst the Unreal Academic Partnership recognises the NCCA's commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities.

Students within the department have access to our industry-standard facilities including a 200msq soundstage studio, green screen studio, virtual production facilities and computer labs equipped with professional production software.

The new Head of Department will provide strong leadership, implement strategic policy, and ensure that the highest possible standards of excellence are achieved. They will be expected to oversee a sustainable educational provision and improve student experience, enhance research outputs and income generation, and maintain industry partnerships. You will be supported in your role by two Deputy Heads of Department.

You will be qualified to Doctorate level or equivalent in a relevant field. You will have demonstrated research leadership, relevant industry connections, and you will be committed to a culture of academic excellence and continuous improvement.

For an informal discussion please contact Professor Einar Thorsen, Executive Dean for the Faculty of Media & Communication at [email protected].

Our equality monitoring has shown that women and individuals with an ethnicity from minority groups are currently under-represented within the university at a senior level. We therefore actively encourage applications from eligible candidates from these groups.

BU values and is committed to an inclusive working environment.  We seek a diverse community through attracting, developing and retaining staff from different backgrounds to contribute to inspirational learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society.  To support and enable our staff to achieve a balance between work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.

A bespoke and comprehensive programme of development and support will be available for successful appointees. The programme will be framed in the context of the University’s strategic plan, BU2025.