Dean of Faculty Affairs
Leading Research Institution – Southern Japan
Executive Search | Confidential Appointment

A prominent and rapidly growing PhD-granting research institution located in southern Japan is seeking an outstanding academic leader to serve as Dean of Faculty Affairs (DFA). This is a rare opportunity to join a world-class, international graduate university dedicated to cutting-edge research across scientific disciplines. The DFA will play a central role in shaping the academic and strategic direction of the institution. The functioning language of the institute is in English, with 70% of faculty, staff and students being non-Japanese, so Japanese language ability is not a prerequisite.

The Role
Reporting directly to senior university leadership, the Dean of Faculty Affairs oversees the Office of Academic Affairs, which supports nearly 100 faculty members and over 500 researchers. This position is critical to fostering academic excellence, effective governance, and a collegial, inclusive environment.
Key areas of responsibility include:
• Leading faculty recruitment efforts in collaboration with academic search committees
• Overseeing faculty evaluation processes, including tenure and performance reviews
• Managing policies for research unit staff and leading appointment and promotion processes
• Supervising faculty HR operations, including contracts and compliance
• Supporting professional development and equity initiatives
• Overseeing library strategy and resources
• Coordinating with leadership on research integrity and misconduct policies
• Managing faculty personnel budgets in partnership with HR and Finance
• Chairing the campus space allocation committee
• Contributing to executive-level strategy and institutional planning

The Institution
Founded in 2011, the institution offers a fully English-language PhD program in science and technology and attracts exceptional researchers and students from more than 50 countries. The campus, situated in a protected natural area, features award-winning architecture, state-of-the-art facilities, and a unique structure with no academic departments, designed to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration.

With an internationally recognized research environment and a strong commitment to innovation, the institution is gaining global attention as a model for graduate education and scientific excellence.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will bring:
• A PhD or equivalent in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics
• At least five years of experience in academic administration or leadership
• A distinguished track record in research and academic service
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with fluency in English
• Proven ability to lead in a multicultural and multidisciplinary setting

Terms and Benefits
• Competitive and negotiable compensation
• Relocation and housing assistance
• Health, pension, and accident insurance
• Paid annual and summer leave
• Access to child development services and schooling support
• Language education opportunities
• Full-time executive position
• Flexible working hours as appropriate for a managerial role

Application Process
This search is being conducted on a confidential basis by J-Source Corporation based out of Tokyo. To express interest or request further information, please contact:
Jason Hatchell, Managing Director, J-Source Corporation, jason@jsource.co.jp

All inquiries and applications will be handled with the highest level of discretion. Early expressions of interest are encouraged, as the search committee will begin reviewing candidates immediately.