Job Description

Heriot-Watt University is seeking an exceptional academic leader to serve as Deputy Provost at our expanding Dubai campus. This is a rare opportunity to shape the academic direction, research culture, and student experience of one of the region's most established international universities.
As the most senior academic on campus, the Deputy Provost will play a central role in delivering the University's global strategy in the UAE. Reporting to Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Head of Heriot-Watt Dubai, the role encompasses leadership of teaching, learning, and research; strategic planning; external engagement; and operational oversight.
Key responsibilities include leading in-country academic activities, deputising for the Provost, driving growth in externally funded research, strengthening research student numbers, and developing partnerships with industry, government, and academic institutions. The Deputy Provost will ensure an outstanding student experience aligned with global Heriot-Watt standards, oversee quality assurance processes, support academic planning and recruitment, and work closely with the Chief Operating Officer to ensure effective campus operations. They will also chair the Dubai Research Management Committee and contribute to major University-wide initiatives, including regional transnational education activity.
We are seeking an experienced academic-ideally from engineering, technology, business, or a related STEM discipline-with a strong research track record and senior leadership experience within a university setting. Candidates should bring experience managing people, budgets, and academic portfolios, along with a proven ability to operate in complex, culturally diverse environments. Knowledge of the UAE higher education landscape is highly desirable, as is familiarity with UK or Scottish HE systems. Experience in internationalisation, partnerships, and transnational education is essential; Arabic language skills are an advantage.
The successful candidate will be an inspiring, confident leader with excellent communication skills, a global outlook, strong interpersonal abilities, and the resilience and cultural sensitivity required to thrive in a multi-campus international university
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Closing date for applications is 27th February 2026
Company
Our culture
Heriot-Watt University is one of the top UK universities for business and industry with an established reputation for world-class teaching and practical, leading-edge research.
The Vision
Heriot-Watt's vision is to be world leading, within all its specialist areas of science, engineering, technology and business.
The Mission
Our mission is to create and exchange knowledge for the benefit of society.
We are committed to attracting the very best staff to help us deliver our ambitions.
Company info Telephone +(44)01314495111 Location RICCARTON
EDINBURGH
MIDLOTHIAN
EH14 4AS
GB

Skills Required