HOD

Head of Department (HOD) – School of DesignJob Description Position Head of Department (HOD), School of Design Reports to Principal / Director, Hamstech College of Creative Education Location Sanjay Ghodawat UniversityKolhapur, Maharashtra Employment type Full-time, Permanent 1. Position SummaryThe Head of Department provides academic, administrative and strategic leadership for the School of Design. The HOD is responsible for delivering a high-quality, industry-relevant design education, nurturing faculty and student creativity, strengthening research and industry partnerships, and ensuring the department meets all regulatory, accreditation and institutional standards.2. Key ResponsibilitiesAcademic LeadershipLead the design, review and continuous updating of curricula, ensuring alignment with industry trends, emerging technologies and regulatory/accreditation requirements.Oversee teaching quality, timetables, assessment, examinations and evaluation processes.Promote studio-based, project-based and interdisciplinary learning.Ensure timely completion of syllabi, studio reviews, juries and final-year projects.Champion academic integrity, originality and ethical design practice.Faculty Management and DevelopmentPlan faculty workload, recruitment, induction and mentoring.Conduct performance appraisals and support professional development, training and further study.Encourage faculty participation in research, publications, exhibitions, competitions and conferences.Foster a collaborative, respectful and inclusive departmental culture.Student Development and WelfareOversee admissions support, orientation, academic advising and mentoring.Monitor student progress, attendance and retention; address academic and disciplinary matters.Support internships, placements, portfolio development, exhibitions and design showcases.Encourage student participation in competitions, workshops and community-based design projects.Research, Innovation and Industry EngagementPromote applied research, creative practice and innovation within the department.Build partnerships with design studios, corporations, start-ups, NGOs and professional bodies.Organise guest lectures, workshops, live projects, hackathons and exhibitions.Support funded projects, consultancy, patents/IP and publications.Administration and Resource ManagementPrepare and manage the departmental budget and ensure effective use of resources.Ensure studios, workshops, labs, software and equipment are well maintained, safe and up to date.Maintain accurate departmental records, reports and data for audits and accreditation (e.g., NAAC, NBA, NIRF or equivalent).Represent the department on academic councils, boards of studies and institutional committees.Strategic Planning and Institutional RepresentationDevelop and implement a vision, strategic plan and annual goals for the School of Design.Contribute to institutional policy, branding, outreach and admissions promotion.Represent the school at external forums, alumni events and professional gatherings.Strengthen alumni networks and engagement.3. Qualifications and ExperienceEssentialMaster's degree in Design (M.Des) or a relevant discipline; a PhD or equivalent terminal qualification is strongly preferred.Minimum [8–10] years of teaching and/or professional design experience, including at least [3–5] years in a senior academic or leadership role.Demonstrated record of curriculum development and academic administration.Evidence of research output, publications, exhibitions, design projects or professional practice.DesirableExperience with accreditation processes and quality assurance.Established industry network and consultancy or professional design practice.Experience in grant writing, funded projects or international collaborations.Familiarity with emerging areas such as UX/UI, service design, sustainable design, AI in design and design thinking.4. Skills and CompetenciesStrong leadership, decision-making and people-management skills.Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.Strategic thinking, planning and budgeting ability.Creative vision with an understanding of contemporary design practice and technology.Conflict resolution, negotiation and stakeholder management.Commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability and ethical practice.Proficiency with academic management systems and digital design tools.5. Key Performance IndicatorsStudent outcomes: retention, graduation rates, placements and portfolio quality.Faculty performance: teaching quality, research output and professional development.Industry engagement: partnerships, live projects, internships and consultancy.Compliance: accreditation, audits and timely reporting.Student and faculty satisfaction, and departmental reputation (awards, rankings, exhibitions).