The School of Psychology at the University of Surrey invites applications from HCPC registered clinical psychologists, or an outstanding academic leader, to take on the role of Programme Director for the Clinical Psychology Doctorate. This is a significant leadership opportunity to shape and advance one of the University’s flagship professional training programmes at a pivotal time for the health and social care sector.
As NHS services face increasing complexity and demand, the programme plays a critical role within the University’s civic partnerships, driving innovation, strengthening workforce capability, and responding to the evolving needs of communities. The successful candidate will provide strategic direction and leadership to ensure the programme continues to deliver excellence in research, training, and clinical impact.
The School of Psychology offers a dynamic and collaborative environment, recognised for excellence in psychology training and internationally impactful research. The postholder will contribute to teaching within their area of expertise, provide research supervision, and maintain an active programme of research.
About you
We are seeking an individual with vision and a strong track record of influence in the clinical psychology profession. They must also have had experience of contributing significantly to professional training programmes through undertaking research supervision, teaching, and clinical supervision. The applicant will have worked with the NHS, contributing to service delivery, and will bring a clear and compelling perspective on the future of clinical psychology, and the role of doctoral training in shaping practice, research, and service delivery at scale.
Central to this role is the ability to lead and develop a high-performing academic and clinical team. The successful candidate will foster a cohesive, inclusive, and values-driven culture, ensuring alignment around shared goals and strategic priorities. With a strong commitment to staff development, they will support talent progression, build leadership capacity within the team, and create an environment in which colleagues are empowered to excel and innovate. They will also play a key role in strengthening and expanding strategic partnerships across the NHS, health, and social care sectors, and wider stakeholders, positioning the programme at the forefront of pedagogical innovation and applied research.
The successful candidate will be expected to work at the University campus for the majority (60%, pro-rata) of their week with Tuesday being a critical day for attendance.
In recognition of the demands of the role, the position is being offered as a full time opportunity. That said, candidates looking for a part time contract to sustain their contribution to the NHS will be considered, although it is likely the role will require a commitment of at least 3 days a week.
What we offer
In addition to a competitive salary, we provide a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Generous annual leave (30 days plus 7 University closure days and 8 bank holidays)
- A highly competitive pension scheme
- Access to world-class campus leisure facilities
- Travel and transport schemes
- Family-friendly benefits, including an excellent on-site nursery
How to apply
To apply, please upload your CV to the University website. You will also be asked to address some statements to help us assess your suitability for the position.
For informal enquiries please contact Mary John, Head of the Clinical and Health Psychology Discipline – m.john@surrey.ac.uk
Please note the University is closed from 2nd - 8th April inclusive for the Spring vacation.
Presentations will be held online on 11th May. Successful candidates will then be invited to attend an interview on 20th May in the School of Psychology, University of Surrey
The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community and particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.