Director of Professional Language Training

This senior academic role will cover two areas of activity for the Dept of Language and Linguistic Science at the University of York: overseeing the introduction of the new MA programme in Interpreting, Translation and Applied Technologies (ITAT) and strategically positioning this in the UK HE market, as well as undertaking directorship for the Languages for All (LfA) programme.

Preparations for the launch of the new Masters programme in ITAT (launch Sept 2024) will involve assessing competitor programmes and potential partners, engaging with marketing, working with the department, faculty and estates to set up and maintain the interpreting lab, and setting up goals and staffing for the new programme. You will work on developing accreditation status for the new programme. You will assess potential pathways for future expansion across a broad range of target languages and additional masters programmes. You will work closely with the Chair of the Graduate School Board and your programme lead to coordinate module outlines and assessments, and provide leadership to the staff teaching on the programme. 

An essential part of the Language and Linguistic Science Department, the Languages for All programme offers non-credit bearing courses suitable for beginners through to degree level, open to staff, students and the public. The new Director will oversee a range of LfA staff including coordinators, tutors and support staff.  You will ensure that the programme  continues to offer an effective and broad language programme, and work with the Chair of the Board of Studies to ensure that the offer, curriculum, learning outcomes and staffing align with those of the degree language programmes and electives. You will oversee the introduction of a broad range of changes within the context of the University of York’s transition to a semesterised annual structure from 2023/24. You will work with marketing and planning within the university, and make a strategic case for the ongoing support and enhancement of this programme.

Role

• To ensure a successful strategic placement of the offer of ITAT and LfA in the UK and global market.
• To take responsibility for overseeing, developing and promoting innovative teaching and learning approaches and resources, which create interest, understanding and enthusiasm amongst students.
• To lead the design, development and delivery of a range of academic programmes of study and ensure that programme design and delivery comply with the quality standards and regulations of the Department and University. 
• To undertake effectively a range of administrative and managerial responsibilities.    
• To lecture, lead seminars, tutorials and other forms of undergraduate and postgraduate teaching as appropriate and feasible.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• Postgraduate degree in language pedagogy, translation, interpreting, or a related field
• Knowledge in language pedagogy, translation and/or interpreting sufficient to design & develop teaching programmes and the provision of learning support
• A good knowledge of the wider market in languages and/or translation/interpreting in the UK Higher Education context
• Proven ability to plan and shape the direction of an area of teaching activity, ensuring plans complement broader education strategy
• Leadership experience in the context of an institution-wide language programme (IWLP) and/or PGT courses in translation and/or interpreting (T/I) in Higher Education (HE)