Appointment of President APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT

Table of Contents Profile of the Introduction 2 UL - The Facts 4 The Campus 6 The Journey to UL@50 10 Awards 12 Commitment to Equality and Diversity, Health and Well-being 14 Healthy Campus Initiative 15 Putting Research at the Core of UL 16 Academic Transformation – teaching, learning & student experience 18 UL Library 21 The Visual Arts 22 Sports 25 Living @ UL 26

Profile of the Role of the President Role of the President 28 Role Description 29 Person Specification 31 Terms & Conditions 32 Appointment Process & How to Apply 32 University Governance 33 University Management 33 University Committee Executive Membership 34 Academic Organisation Chart 35

Limerick & the Mid-West Region 38

Additional Information for Candidates 44

II 1 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT Introduction Established as an educational institution in 1972 and conferred as University in 1989, the University of is an independent, internationally focussed university with over 17,000 students. As one of Ireland’s foremost , we are recognised for our dedication to the student experience, our commitment to graduate employability, our industry-relevant, award-winning research and extensive community engagement.

Located 5km from Limerick City and 20km from We value, support and encourage research excellence Shannon International Airport, the University of with demonstrable academic and societal impact Limerick is renowned for possessing one of the most across all disciplines. The research portfolio has spectacular and environmentally sympathetic modern expanded steadily in recent years, and our state-of- university campuses anywhere in the world. the-art research infrastructure has been enhanced through sustained investment and expansion, A disciplined and rigorous approach to learning including funding for large-scale, UL-led national challenges students by setting high expectations centres. The campus is home to the Nexus Innovation for their academic performance and matches their Centre supporting spin-out activity in the region potential and ability. Equally, a rigorous approach and is central to the UL Enterprise Corridor which to programme design and continual curriculum hosts numerous indigenous and multinational R&D development that is characterised by an ethos of companies. Adjacent to the University is the National research-led teaching and learning is a defining Technology Park (NTP), Ireland’s first science/ feature of the institution. Since our foundation, the technology park (263 hectares), which is home to needs of the communities we serve have also been more than 100 indigenous and major multinational to the forefront of our activities and have shaped our corporations employing more than 5,000 people. research and teaching programmes. The realisation that we have a responsibility to promote economic, Our stated mission within our current strategic plan, educational and social development unites us with UL@50 is to the community and demands that we remain closely UL fosters curiosity, creativity and connected to the cultural, economic, professional “buildontheexpertiseofour academic excellence in an inclusive and business worlds in ways that distinguish us as an scholarsincreating,harnessing institution of higher learning. andimpartingknowledgeforthe community committed to social good. Employability has always been at the core of our benefitofourstudentsandthe teaching mission and continues to be a central tenet enrichmentofourcommunity”. of our distinctive approach to in Our Core Values are: Ireland. The inclusion of Cooperative Education and UL@50 also reaffirms our vision to create a work placement as a compulsory element of all our destination of excellence in education, research and • Creative & Innovative undergraduate programmes is one of the specific innovation that will attract the highest-calibre staff strengths of UL; and is for many students, an incentive and the best students from all sections of society, • Inclusive & Diverse to choose UL over other Irish universities and both in Ireland and abroad, and ensure that Limerick . The result of these sustained efforts means and the Mid-West are recognised as great places to • Ethical & Sustainable that we occupy a position of immense strength with live and work. respect to graduate employability compared to other • Supportive & Transformational institutions in Ireland. • Ambitious & Driven

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UL - The Facts

Graduates by Faculty 2019/20 International Student Numbers AY 2019/20

25% Science and Engineering Arts Humanities and 15% Undergraduate 480 Social Sciences Postgraduate 635 13% Interfaculty Exchange 1126 Kemmy Business School 25% 22% Education and Health Sciences of student 17% population

Student Enrolment AY 2020/21* Faculty & Staff Full-time Part-time Distance Total AY 2020/21

Undergraduate 11,887 490 515 12,892 262 Taught Postgraduate Diplomas & Masters 1,884 1,219 483 3,586 Research Staff Research Postgraduate Degrees (Masters/PhD) 866 83 - 949

Total 14,637 1,792 998 17,427 799 1808 747 Support Total Faculty * Provisional Numbers Staff

2015-20 190% €322m Student Numbers tratoa tuts a hoo sah u 20% increase From 2010 to 2017 The first to be established Since 2014 (HEA Stats) in Ireland since 1900 auat mpomt 97% employed or pursuing further study 2020 4% higher rate than national average Income 2019/20 Cooperative Education 2,200 students placed annually within a global network of 25+ countries across €289,800,000 all five continents

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The Campus UL’s campus area comprises 149 hectares (366 acres), which includes Capital Development Plan 47 hectares (116 acres) located in the North Bank Campus on the Clare During the period 2014 to 2020 the University side of the . completed the implementation of a €225m Capital Development Plan. + Total area of buildings is 257,870m2 a Campus North Campus + Main University Building + A plan for the period 2020 to 2025 has been prepared and is currently + 419 Laboratories (encompassing undergraduate teaching, research, + Foundation Building + Health Sciences Building being re-evaluated in light of Covid impact on future capital investment specialist and high-tech facilities) + Plassey House + Irish World Academy of requirements and funding. + Computer Science Building Music and Dance + Eight student villages providing accommodation for 3,000 students + Bernal Building + President’s Residence and visiting academic staff + Schrödinger Science Building + Student Villages + Kemmy Business School + Sports Pavilion + Total value of investment to date in land, buildings and equipment is + Tierney Building Framework for Physical Development over €720 million + Physical Education & Sports RKD architects were commissioned to support the University to Science Building establish a guiding framework for future physical development. The term + UL was ranked 17th in the world for its efforts towards campus + UL Sports Arena ‘framework’ is used to highlight the flexibility of the proposal. It is not a sustainability and environmentally friendly university management in + Glucksman Library final solution, it is a vision to inspire an alternative future that embeds the GreenMetric Ranking of World Universities 2020 + Student Centre the university’s ambitions, and the needs of its students, staff and + Student Accommodation community, in its physical presence.

The output is a Framework for Physical Development outlining the guiding principles for how to develop the campus in the long term.

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innovation New Developments Future Capital & excellence Underway Include: Developments: in education + NEW STUDENT LIFE CENTRE + CITY CENTRE CAMPUS The new Student Centre, a 3,529 square metre The University is committed in its Strategic Plan to building set over three storeys, is in a prime front the development of the UL Limerick City Campus. of house location adjacent to the Stables Complex In the medium term it is planned to locate a research & and the Glucksman Library. The facility, the total significant landmark building on the former project cost of which is in the region of €20m, is Dunnes Stores site. The timing of the development being funded on a partnership basis between the of this landmark building will be determined by scholarship students and the University. The new Student the availability of funding. In May 2020 Limerick Centre - a ‘Centre for Student Life’ as articulated City and County Council submitted four proposals by the students - will support the student journey for funding under the Urban Regeneration through UL and will be a space where students Development Fund (URDF). can relax, play, be informed and supported. The “World Class Waterfront” proposal was + CLIMBING WALL ranked as the number one project for Limerick Work on the 250m2 climbing wall adjacent to City and County by the Council. The “World Class UL Arena was completed in October 2020. The Waterfront” proposal consists of three strands: design caters for both fun and expert climbers Strand 1: Cleeves Riverside Quarter, Strand 2: UL of all ages and capabilities. The climbing wall City Campus and Strand 3: Pedestrian Bridges will be Ireland’s tallest, standing at 21 metres and Waterfront Infrastructure Works and equipped with an ability to cater for the new Olympic sports of speed climbing. The total cost for the proposal submitted is €500m and the Council has sought €159m in total + EXTERNAL LIFT – FOUNDATION BUILDING URDF funding for the World Class Waterfront. Work is underway on the construction of an The UL City Campus project cost submitted external lift on the southern elevation of the within this is €197m and the URDF funding Foundation Building, University of Limerick sought for the UL project is €88m. The partners consisting of a brick three storey lift enclosure to the overall proposal are listed as University of of a height of 13m and an area of 16m2, between Limerick, Limerick Twenty Thirty DAC, Office of plaza level and lower ground floor terrace level Public Works, National Transport Authority and with a glazed link to the first floor level of the Department of Transport Tourism and Sport. Foundation Building. Construction is expected to be completed in 2021. The UL Limerick City Campus is expected to involve the development of two linked buildings; a university teaching building, which will accommodate 4,000 students and 350 staff and a self-funded student accommodation residence of 600 study bedrooms. The two buildings will deliver 42,825m² of high quality teaching infrastructure and living space.

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The Journey to UL@50 Designated as a University PMTC – of Sanctuary (2017) Pharmaceutical School of Law wins Law Manufacturing School of the Year (2017) Technology Centre (EI/IDA Technology Ranked in the 101– 150 Centre) category in the QS established (2013) Graduate Employability Ranking (2017) UL Alumni Ireland’s first NISE – National established (1987)

04 Olympic-size Institute for CONFIRM Smart 14 89 18 - swimming pool - Studies in Manufacturing (SFI - University status - opened in UL Education Research Centre) granted (1989) (2001) established (2014) established (2018) 3,490 students (1989) Building UL Health 6th in the world for University of commences on Research Institute suburban campus Limerick Foundation side (HRI) established (UI Green Metric World (1989) (2004) (2014) (2018) 1987 2013 2017 established 2001 of campus Ranking)

National Institute University Lero – The Irish Software SSPC – Synthesis Sunday Times Attained expanded charter of Higher Concert Hall Research Centre (SFI and Solid State University of the Bronze Athena SWAN 7 7 5 Education opened (1993) Research Centre) Pharmaceutical Year 2015 award (2019) 16 10 7 9 founded (1972) 0 established (2005) Centre (SFI - -

- Glucksman DPTC – Dairy Sunday Times University - - Research Centre) 113 students (1972) Library opened MACSI – Mathematics Processing of the Year 2019 established (2009) (1997) Applications Consortium Technology Centre 2019 1,545m2 campus for Science and Industry IComp – Irish (EI/IDA Technology Kemmy Business School

72 buildings (1972) earns AACSB International established (2006) Composites Centre) established Accreditation (2019) Centre (EI/IDA (2015) 9 Students Union Living Bridge constructed established (1975) Technology Ranked world #2 for 1

(2007) 2015 Clinical Education 1993 Centre) international student 2008 2005 Research Centre established (2010) Epi-Stem – National (CERC) opened with happiness (2019) Centre for STEM University Hospital Education established Ranked #35 in the Times Limerick (2016) Higher Education (THE) (2007) University Impact Graduate Entry Medical moves to campus Rankings (2019) School established (2007) (2016) UL ranked within top 75 in UL Bernal Institute Europe for THE Excellence in Teaching and Learning (2019) established (2016) SFI Centre for Research Training in Foundations of Data Science established (2019)

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Awards UL ranked within the Top 75 Universities in Europe for Excellence in Teaching and Learning1 and 50th Globally in the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking 2021.

+ #71-80 Top 50 Under 50 & Next 50 Under 502 + #201-250 Graduate Employability ranking2 + Voted best international student supports in Ireland + 628 Partner universities in 71 countries + Voted 1st in world for international student activities + Students from 100+ countries

No. 1 Most Recommended 6th in the World Best Erasmus Programme University in Ireland3 for Suburban Campus4 2018, 2019 & 20205

Top 3 % of Universities Best Student Campus Awarded a Green in the World 2010/20205 Campus Status for energy, travel, transport and biodiversity6

educating & empowering our students

1 THE - Teacher Ranking 2021 4 UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2019 2 QS World University Ranking 2020 5 The Education Awards 12 3 International Student Barometer Survey 2109 6 Foundation for Environmental Education 13 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT

Commitment to Equality and Healthy Campus Initiative Diversity, Health and Well-being UL is committed to the health and wellbeing of all of its staff, students and community stakeholders. This culminated in the UL takes great pride in being one of the first institutions in Ireland production of a ‘Healthy UL’ framework 2019-22. to achieve (in July 2015) an Athena SWAN (AS) Bronze Institution Award. Since then, we have worked hard to embed AS across all faculties and departments. Patrm Healthy Interaction imet

UL applied for the Athena SWAN expanded charter, introduced in Funding & Addictive Ireland in November 2017, rather than renewing the AS STEMM Resources Behaviours standard, which primarily focuses on the careers of women in STEMM. L U y h We are the first institution to upgrade our existing award to the lt H a e e a Sexual Health H lt expanded charter and the second university in Ireland to be awarded Leadership h y & Wellbeing the expanded charter. This award recognises work undertaken to P e

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h n Athena SWAN therefore is not just about one gender but promotes t y s S equality and diversity across all disciplines. ys te ms itri Healthy Eating We are the best performing HE institute in Ireland regarding Intelligence University of Limerick female representation at full professor level, rising from 8% in ‘Healthy UL’ Framework Health in all Physical Policies Activity 2007 to 32% in 2018 – eight points above the national average.

Equality and Human Rights Strategy University of

In 2019 UL produced its Equality and Human Rights Strategy 2019- Sanctuary 2022, which builds on UL@50, the University of Limerick Strategic UL remains remain strongly committed to Plan 2019-2024. Setting out core objectives and actions for the next providing access to the University with a three years, the strategy consolidates our commitment to equality particular focus on refugees and asylum and human rights at the highest level. seekers. Indeed, UL was awarded the status of University of Sanctuary in 2017 by City of Sanctuary in the UK.

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Putting Research at the Core of UL Health Research The renewed research strategy is currently in development and marks Institute the next phase of our growth. In this phase we seek to put research at the core of our university by building on our strengths, ensuring our systems ra sttut hosts a multidisciplinary team of ath sah sttut is a cross faculty institute world-leading materials scientists and engineers at that brings together researchers in UL and its and supports are enabling research excellence to create a world-class, UL. Bernal represents a €100m+ investment in world- partner institutions with a focus on convergent research-led institution. class characterisation, modelling and manufacturing and translational health research. The mission of facilities concentrated in 20,000m of high-quality the HRI is to conduct outstanding person-centred Our world is changing rapidly, the global pandemic Key Highlights research space. research to enhance the health and well-being of has tasked us to respond. This responsiveness individuals and transform the health environment to some of the world’s greatest challenges is part + €322 million research funding since 2014. Our mission is to develop disruptive technologies for the population. The HRI strives to support of the UL DNA. We are a community of problem- related to Health, Energy and Environment that will interdisciplinary research groups that are committed + 2 campus companies sold for over €100m solvers. By tackling challenges from clean energy to create a legacy of scientific achievement in structured to expanding health research through a variety of reducing inequalities, championing quality education + Highest number of patents filed in Ireland1. materials research that benefits future generations. collaborative efforts. Within the HRI research is to creating stronger communities and protecting our Bernal research is organised across bio materials, organised into health technologies, lifestyle and + Over 200 research collaborations with industry. environment, this young agile university provides composite materials, molecular and nano materials health, health services delivery and public and solutions and partners for change. + 60% of research publications with international and process engineering. patient involvement in healthcare. partners.

The research focus at the University of Limerick + Hosts five externally funded research is characterised by the convergence of discrete centres2 in the areas of pharmaceutical and disciplines working together to achieve fundamental biopharmaceutical manufacturing, dairy breakthroughs whilst adopting a translational processing, advanced manufacturing, software approach to ensure research is rapidly translated into research. economic and social impacts for Ireland and beyond. + Home to four European Research Council Our research addresses areas of importance to our (ERC) awardees in the areas of psychology society, such as education, languages, healthcare and chemistry health and hate crime. These and social inclusion and has significant impact strengths are coupled with an increasing focus on sectors that are vital to our economy, such on inter-disciplinary research in application as pharmaceuticals, med-tech, software, food, areas such as digital health, cancer, advanced communications and energy. manufacturing, biopharma.

Externally funded National Research Centres @ UL

Driven by a responsive research community, the University of Limerick is taking on global challenges including affordable and clean energy, the digital 1 In 2019, UL was the top performing university in Ireland for the number of patents filed and research agreements valued between 25K and 500K based on per €10 million research expenditure. economy and Covid-19 among others. 2 Science Foundation Ireland Centres – Lero – Irish Software Research Centre, Confirm – Smart Manufacturing, Synthesis and Solid State Pharmaceutical centre (SSPC). Enterprise Ireland Centres – Dairy Processing Technology Centre (DPTC), 16 Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technology Centre (PMTC). 17 Academic Transformation – teaching, learning & student experience The UL educational ethos continually inspires us to strive for excellence and to pioneer new ways of supporting our most precious resource – our students.

Teaching and learning at UL has always + Ensure greater access to relevant and up-to-date courses been underpinned by the proposition which meet the needs of enterprises and workers in a non- that students should be actively and traditional mode of learning (PT, blended, flexible learning deeply involved in their education. As etc.). UL recognises the need to further strengthen our long a result, the University has built a very established connections with industry in the decade ahead strong reputation for the exceptionally in order to differentiate teaching and learning programs and high quality of its student experience reinforce our role as a key regional/national driver of innovation both in Ireland and internationally. and growth. As an example, in Feb 2021 UL has announced a new partnership with Stripe, Analog Devices and other tech Many of the features that support companies, including domestic start-ups Soapbox Labs, positive student engagement are Manna.aero, and Provizio, to develop a highly innovative and already in place at UL: teachers who totally new model of computer science education programme. excite students about their learning This work-integrated undergraduate and master’s degree in and who care about their students Immersive Software Engineering is intended to address the as individuals; work placement (i.e. growing global demand for developers and to increase diversity Cooperative Education, practice within the field. placement and careers programmes and our extensive networks with + Build new and exciting bespoke professional education/ business and industry); study abroad, ’at work’ undergraduate and postgraduate programmes the final year research project; and including professional programmes and micro-credentials. abundant opportunities to become Underpinning this work, UL in Oct 2020, has secured over €16 actively involved in extra-curricular million for UL@Work under the HEA’s Human Capital Initiative. activities. This exciting 5-year investment will become a central pillar of the innovation in teaching and learning and development of A key piece of work for the incoming new programme offerings in line with industry needs over the President will be to develop and next 5 years. articulate an academic transformation strategy that will underpin the UL + Maximising the opportunities in relation to increasing the Strategic Plan. This teaching, learning, percentages of strategic growth target groups (postgraduate assessment and digital learning + international students) as a proportion of the overall student strategy will be hugely cognisant of population is now also critical for financial sustainability and will the rapid transformation and evolution be central to the planning at UL in the coming years of teaching and learning in Irish Higher Education resulting from the Covid-19 global pandemic and include the learnings and best praxis from the rapid transfer from face-to-face to online modes of delivery at UL since March 2020. The strategy will also:

18 UL Academic Transformation 2020-25 - First Principles

New Programmes Academic Regulations Progression + Promotion

Professional Development Framework Academic Calender Revised Graduate Meaningful professional lives in a changing + Scheduling Reviewed + re-aligned CTL Attributes with new world of work at core of all curricula stand-alone/co-requisite learning objects/courses • Enriched Co-operative Education (UG) Programme review Workload Model • Embedded work-integrated learning (PG) + re-design (UG/PG) • Entrepreneurship/Research (UG/PG)

Transformative Transformative Academic Curricula Development + Support

PLANNING STRATEGY

Transformative Transformative Transformative Academic Learning Pedagogies Operating Model

Student-centred, Personalised, Active Technology Revised Management structures Enhanced/Flexible/ Challenge-Driven Experimental + Connected Multi-modal Problem-Based Active Shift from didactic teaching APPOINTMENT OF Know-how / Entrepreneurial To self-directed learning Enhanced LMS+ Review of Divisions + co-creation of Data Learning analytics Project-Based Flexible Learning experience Research-Oriented Multi-Modal Enhanced Learning Budget/Resources Spaces Building opportunities for learners ...From content > concept + context PRESIDENT 19 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT

UL Library The reimagined and extended Glucksman Library is designed to transform the Library and the University for scholarship in a digital age.

The building includes:

+ Seating for 2,200 people + Faculty Reading Room + Study areas for silent, quiet and group work + Graduate Commons + Over 150 PCs for student use + Moot Appellate Court + Wireless access throughout the Library + Digital Scholarship studio + Group study, meeting and training rooms + Exhibition space + Presentation practice room

350,000 450,000 62,000 200 printed books, e-books journals electronic journals, newspapers, databases theses & magazines

Library Collections

The University’s institutional repository ULIR contains UL’s research output.

Special Collections & Archives contains the library’s collections of archives, rare books and manuscripts relating particularly to the history, literature and culture of Limerick and the Mid-West region.

The Library has assumed care of the Bolton Library; a collection of 12,000 early printed books, manuscripts and incunabulae of Over one million exceptional academic and bibliographic importance.

Other collections include; The National Dance Archive of Ireland, people visit the the Gilsenan Yeats collection, the Armstrong Collection, the Daly Family Papers and a Kate O’Brien Archive. Library each year

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The Visual Arts Contributing to The University is the permanent home of our Communities several art collections: UL has always been renowned for the depth and value of our + The National Self-Portrait Collection of Ireland contribution to the economic, educational, social and cultural life of Ireland in general and the Shannon region in particular. + The Watercolour Society of Ireland Collection We will continue to increase the level of interaction between our + The O’Malley Sculpture Collection students and community groups, develop a culture of access & + The Irish American Cultural Institute’s O’Malley Collection lifelong learning in our communities and extend the presence of of Irish Art the University in Limerick city. We will promote the city and region + The Armitage Collection by providing community access to our campus and all its excellent amenities, and we will encourage environmental and social + The Molas Collection donated by Dr Patrick J Murphy responsibility within and beyond the campus. + The Midnight Court Collection by Pauline Bewick + Limerick a positive view by Anne Marie Bourke + Access & Life-Long Learning – UL has a proud tradition of + World-renowned collection of large outdoor sculptures supporting Access and progression to higher education with almost 30% of our undergraduate students classified as non- traditional entrants. This work is supported by a long established physical presence in the city at UL Access Campus, a community-based facility that aims to raise aspirations amongst school children from disadvantaged communities.

+ Local Economic Development – UL actively collaborates with industry; engages in incubation activities; enhances skill levels; creates spin-out companies; and is a key driver of the region’s and the nation’s economic development goals. UL is also committed to sustaining and extending the range of successful collaborations with Limerick City and County Council as the city and region drives towards the realisation of its highly ambitious and transformative “Limerick 2030” vision.

+ Student Engagement - UL has the largest student volunteering programme in Ireland through its annual President Volunteering Award programme which contributes thousands of student volunteering hours each year to local community and voluntary Culture organisations.

+ Home to the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance + Staff Engagement - ‘UL Engage’ serves as the tangible hub for a + Home to the Irish Chamber Orchestra – including its ground- wide diversity of civic engagement activities across campus and breaking community development initiative “Sing Out With works with all divisions and faculties to amplify, incubate and co- Strings” which provides children with access to music education ordinate the various ways that faculty and staff in the University and provides tangible, long-term benefits for participants, their of Limerick can work to make a difference. families and the wider community. + 60,000 patrons to the University Concert Hall annually + Internationally acclaimed Artists and Writers in Residence - UL Creative Writing Faculty include the award winning authors Joseph O’Connor, Donal Ryan and Sarah Moore-Fitzgerald; and Artists in Residence have included Martin Dyar, Mary O’Malley and Kit De Waal. + 11 national visual arts collections housing 1,700 artworks

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Sports

+ UL Arena - 700,000 visitors annually + Ireland’s largest indoor climbing wall

+ Ireland’s largest all-weather pitch complex + Leading Equestrian facilities to support Equine Ireland’s premier Science programmes (in 2021, UL Equine + Ireland’s only indoor rowing tank Science graduate Rachael Blackmore created + Training Headquarters of Munster Rugby history by becoming the first woman to win the sporting campus ) + National 50m swimming pool + Training camp headquarters for many of Ireland’s + National Strength & Conditioning Centre Tokyo 2021 Olympic athletes + destination of choice for many of Ireland’s leading male and female inter-county GAA players

24 25 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT Delivering an outstanding campus experience

Campus Life Services Making UL the best ‘campus life’ experience for all

Campus Life Services develop and manage student residential and communal facilities and provide the financial and legal management of all physical developments on the campus Living @ UL under the leadership of our development company, Plassey Campus Developments. They are also responsible for the management of a wide range of on-campus social club bar/ + Distinctive 149 hectare parkland campus restaurants, retail units, communal halls (including 1,00 seater University Concert Hall), the vast array of UL Sport facilities and various other commercial operations. + Eight student villages providing accommodation for 3,000 students and visiting academic staff We actively promote the use of the campus facilities and services for conferences and + Smarter Travel - supporting the promotion of sustainable transport events during the summer vacation from June to the end of August. We attract many Irish schemes on campus and international visitors to all sorts of meetings, events, academic conferences and a wide variety of national and international sporting competitions. This activity brings additional + UL Healthy-Campus Framework and Plan revenue to the region, helps us to maintain our fine campus and raises the profile of the + 80+ student clubs and societies University’s visibility and reputation worldwide.

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Role of the President Role Description Duties and Responsibilities Appointment of President The University of Limerick (UL) with over 17,000 students and 1,800 staff is Key competencies for this role include: an energetic and enterprising institution with a proud record of innovation Leadership and excellence in education, research and scholarship. + Lead, influence and manage organisational change through articulating and communicating a distinctive shared vision, mission and values for the future of the University to internal The dynamic, entrepreneurial and pioneering values The President serves as Chief Officer of the and external partners, whilst preserving the University’s unique which drive UL’s mission and strategy ensure that University. S/he has overall responsibility for the character and ethos. we capitalise on local, national and international leadership, strategic direction and oversight of + Lead the development and implementation of the University’s engagement and connectivity. We are renowned for the University in the delivery of its activities and is strategic plan, ensuring its aims, objectives and related policies providing an outstanding student experience and accountable to the UL Governing Authority. are achieved to the fullest extent possible. employability and conducting leading edge research. + Foster and embed equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the Our commitment is to make a difference by shaping Nurturing the well-being of the campus community campus community. the future through educating and empowering our and creating a values-based learning environment undergraduate and postgraduate students. UL is that enables student and staff to thrive and achieve Relationship Management situated on a superb riverside campus of over 130 their ambitions will be core to the role of President. + Act as the primary ambassador of the University in order to foster hectares with the River Shannon as a unifying focal S/he will also further develop the reputation of the existing partnerships, forge new relationships, and ultimately raise point. Outstanding recreational, cultural and sporting University locally, nationally, and internationally in the University’s profile locally, nationally and internationally. facilities further enhance this exceptional learning terms of its high-quality research, teaching and + Maintain critical relationships with national and local government, and research environment. learning, and knowledge-transfer activities in a business, commercial, cultural and voluntary/NGO sectors. rapidly changing environment, whilst simultaneously + Work with the University’s Governing Authority, staff and students The Chancellor of the University of Limerick (UL), responding effectively to the needs of the to reinforce the positive role played by the campus community in conjunction with the Governing Authority, now University’s other stakeholders. and alumni in delivering the University’s distinctive mission and invites applications for the position of President. strategic goals in a values-based culture.

Results and delivery-focused + Direct and guide the University’s Executive and management teams to ensure the effective and efficient management of the Main Purpose of the Role University; its financial, human and physical resources. + Strengthen the culture of excellence across all sectors of The President will be a dynamic and creative leader with the vision and the University and ensure that they remain focused on the University’s mission, vision and values. capacity to motivate, develop and implement a comprehensive strategy that + Enhance UL’s reputation for excellence and innovation in its will build and expand upon the successes and strengths of the University. research programmes by nurturing UL’s existing research strengths and identifying and encouraging new and emerging research opportunities. In collaboration with the Governing Authority, oriented institution. Experience of managing a large, + Build on UL’s excellence and innovation in teaching and learning in staff, students and alumni, the President will complex organisation as well as the ability to work order to continue strengthening the quality and competitiveness serve as a guiding light and motivator in achieving with the University Foundation to influence and of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. UL’s institutional goals to enhance the distinctive leverage additional investment from philanthropic + Maximise the ability of the University to respond to its ever- reputation and character of the University in a highly and corporate partners will be essential. Other changing external environment through initiating appropriate competitive research environment and evolving required attributes include excellent interpersonal academic delivery, technological and other required measures. digital educational landscape. and communication skills; a strong commitment to + Work with the UL Foundation to further advance the public service with a results-oriented focus; and the University’s development through philanthropic and other Strong candidates will have a record of achievement ability to foster a team environment in a culture of fundraising activities. and demonstrate ambition and exceptional excellence and achievement. management and leadership skills in a mission–

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Person Specification Competencies, Attributes and Experience

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following attributes and experience:

+ A demonstrable understanding of, and + A track record of supporting equality, diversity and commitment to the distinctive educational and inclusion. civic mission, vision, values and strengths of the University of Limerick with a clear capacity to + A distinguished personal career that will engender ensure its future strategic growth a high degree of academic credibility among the University community. + A clear and compelling commitment to the enhancement of UL’s outstanding student + A prominent profile of leadership and innovation in experience with a proven ability to enable students research and teaching with the vision and ambition and staff to thrive and achieve their collective to promote the highest standards of quality in ambitions in research, learning, teaching and these areas. engagement. + A proven record of working to create structures + Dynamic, consultative and collaborative senior and processes within the University that ensure strategic leadership and achievement with accountability, transparency, responsiveness, rule excellent communication skills and a proven track of law, stability, empowerment and broad-based record of building a culture of excellence in a large participation. and complex higher education institution that has influenced and impacted national system(s) of + Strong commitment to corporate governance both higher education. in terms of maintaining the University’s autonomy whilst ensuring appropriate levels of transparency + A proven record of working to create structures and accountability, internally and externally. and processes within the University that are designed to ensure accountability, transparency, + Demonstrable integrity with strong and engaging responsiveness, rule of law, stability, empowerment interpersonal, communication and influencing and broad based participation. skills coupled with an empathic ability to listen, engage, motivate and build trust among UL staff + A deep understanding of the broader, external and students, statutory partners, international higher education policy and research funding networks and all of its stakeholders and environments in Ireland and/or internationally; constituent communities. as well as internal governance, operational and financial management experience in relation to + Appropriate experience and personality to act publicly funded institution(s). as an ambassador for the University and to communicate effectively at the highest levels in + Strong financial acumen with an ability to lead interactions with the public, the media and other and drive forward an income diversification and constituencies. national and international fundraising strategy in conjunction with the relevant UL stakeholders, Maintaining funders, donors, industrial, commercial and a culture of community partners. excellence

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Terms & Conditions University + A competitive salary package including pension contributions Governance as part of a defined benefit scheme (consistent with Government guidelines). The University of Limerick operates under national legislation, the Universities Act 1997. As set down in that legislation, overall + The provision of a spacious modern and private family authority for the affairs of the University is vested in the Governing residence situated on campus with a river view. It is required Authority of the University of Limerick, which is appointed in that this will be the primary residence of the President during accordance with the Act. their term.

+ The appointment is for a 10-year period. University Appointment Process Management Overall management of the University’s affairs is the responsibility & How to Apply of the Executive Committee of the University.

The University is being supported in this appointment by executive The academic affairs of the University are managed by the Faculty search firm Perrett Laver. Applications should consist of a full CV Boards, the Academic Programme Review Committee and the detailing academic and professional qualifications, and should Academic Council. be accompanied by a covering letter describing briefly how candidates meet the criteria in the ‘person specification’, why the The University has adopted a new Strategic Plan, UL@50, for appointment is of interest and what they believe they can bring to the period 2019-2024. This plan is the foundation upon which the role. strategic priorities are formulated and implemented. The University Executive Committee and Governing Authority will review the To view further information on the role or to apply for this position implementation of this plan at regular intervals. please visit www.perrettlaver.com/campaigns/ulpresident

The closing date for applications is: Midday GMT on Tuesday, August 3rd

It is planned that shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview for the role in the Autumn 2021.

32 33 34 University Committee Executive Membership

Executive Dean Chief Financial Graduate Professional Officer Studies

Chief Corporate Executive Dean Officer Science & Engineering

Executive Dean Provost / Kemmy Business School President Deputy President

VP Research Executive Dean Arts, Humantities & Social Sciences

Executive Dean Chief Operations Education & Officer Health Sciences VP Global & Community Engagement Academic Organisation Chart

Governing Authority

President

Academic Council

Dean, Faculty Arts, Humanities Dean, Faculty Education & Dean, Kemmy Business School Dean, Faculty Science & Engineering & Social Sciences Health Sciences

School of Modern Languages Dept of Management School of Nursing School of Design & Applied Linguistics & Marketing & Midwifery

Irish World Academy of Dept of Work & School of Engineering Graduate Entry Music & Dance Employment Studies Medical School

School of English, Irish Dept of Accounting School of Natural Sciences School of Allied Health & Communication & Finance

School of Law Dept of Economics Dept of Maths & Statistics School of Education APPOINTMENT OF Dept of History Dept of Computer Science Dept of Psychology & Info Systems

Dept of Electronic & Dept of Sociology Dept of Physical Education Computer Engineering & Sport Sciences PRESIDENT Dept of Politics & Public Admin 35 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT

dedicated to the student experience, award-winning research & community engagement

36 37 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT

Limerick & the Mid-West Region Limerick is the third most populous city in Ireland, and is located in Ireland’s Mid-West region. It is situated at a strategic position on the majestic River Shannon with four main crossing points near the city centre.

The earliest settlement in the city dates back to the pre-Viking and Viking eras. In addition to being the region’s capital, Limerick City is also a main tourist destination along History also records an important battle involving Cormac mac Airt in 221 and a visit the Wild Atlantic Way tourist trail that extends the entire Atlantic seaboard along the west by St. Patrick in 434. Records show that, in 812 the Vikings sailed up the Shannon and coast of Ireland. Limerick also benefits from having an excellent road and rail infrastructure, pillaged the city. The Normans redesigned the city in the 12th century and added much linking it to other major centres as well as (40 minutes), Cork airport (70 of the most notable architecture, such as King John’s Castle and St Mary’s Cathedral. minutes) and Dublin airport (2 hours).

In early medieval times Limerick was at the centre of the Kingdom of which This allows for the pursuit of a vast range of recreational activities including cycling, corresponds to the present day Mid-West Region. One of the kingdom’s most notable yachting, kayaking, fishing, shooting, hunting and hill walking to name but a few. It has a kings was Brian Boru, ancestor of the O’Brien Clan of Dalcassians. The word Thomond number of blue-flag sandy beaches within close proximity; and the country’s third largest is synonymous with the region and is retained in place names such as , lake (130 sq.km.), , only a short distance from the city, is one of the region’s Thomond Bridge and , home ground of Munster rugby. recreational gems. The University’s own Sports Adventure Centre at Lough Derg provides an array of sporting activities with state of the art equipment and professional staff.

38 39 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT

Since 2011, when Limerick was named as the European City of Sport, ‘Sporting Limerick’ has become synonymous for its interest and involvement a wide range of sports.

Rugby, Gaelic games, soccer, golf, horse racing, basketball and tennis are the most popular sporting pastimes in the City.

+ Home of the All-Ireland Hurling Champions in 2018 and 2020.

+ Headquarters of Munster Rugby - Thomond Park, its home stadium, is a key feature on the city’s landscape

+ Home to numerous championship golf Courses and in 2027 the Adare Manor (18 km’s from the Campus) will host the Ryder Cup. Sporting Limerick

40 41 APPOINTMENT OF PRESIDENT

Limerick – a City Region on the Rise While Limerick is a long established and proven location for international business, it is also Ireland’s most future focused city, committed to innovation and economic growth.

Limerick’s current economic resurgence has not happened by chance. Economic Renaissance Sitting on the majestic River Shannon, Limerick is currently enjoying an Like any success, it’s been based on smart planning, hard work and economic renaissance, with record investment and employment through collaboration. The framework for this resurgence has been the Local indigenous and foreign direct investment. Some 12,000+ jobs have Authority’s ‘Limerick 2030 – an Economic and Spatial Plan for Limerick’. been created here over the past five years across FDI and indigenous investment, reflecting a pro-business and competitive operating The plan set ambitious targets for over €1 billion in enterprise and environment that is winning many over. investment infrastructure to transform Limerick through the economic, social and physical renaissance of Limerick City Centre and the wider Improvements in road infrastructure have brought Limerick’s population Mid West Region. Encouragingly, it is already way ahead of targets in a catchment to 500,000 people living within one hour of the city and almost number of key areas, particularly employment. 50% of them under 35 years. Limerick also has a 70,000 third level student population base within a 90 minute radius, including three third level With multiple engines of growth making significant advancements and, institutions of its own. The city is also just 2hrs 30mins from the capital. more importantly, working in collaboration, it’s a region on the rise.

Accessibility In addition to having an international airport, Shannon Airport, on its doorstep with daily services to the UK, Europe and the US, it has an excellent rail and motorway network and two busy commercial ports, one in the city and a second down river at Foynes, at the mouth of the , which boasts some of Europe’s deepest waters – essential for growth in ship size sailing the high seas.

Quality of Life Limerick offers an excellent quality of life, with residential prices 30% lower than the national average. It also offers an outstanding mix of high quality primary and second level schools. It has a vibrant cultural offering. It has the spiritual home of Irish rugby, the world-famous Thomond Park; also boasts one of the country’s largest Gaelic Games stadiums and the fourth largest stadium of any kind in Ireland, the ; has a thriving arts community, as evidenced by its selection as Ireland’s first National City of Culture, having a world-famous school of art and design (Limerick School of Art and Design) and much celebrated night life. Its most recent sporting achievement was Limerick winning the 2018 All Ireland Hurling championship.

Limerick is also a key gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way – one of the fastest growing tourism driving routes in the world – and just 90 minutes from world-famous destinations such as the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry and the Rock of Cashel.

42 43 Additional Information for Candidates

Strategic Documents

UL@50 Strategic Plan 2019-2024 View Online

University of Limerick Equality and Human Rights Strategy 2019-2022 View Online

Excellence and Impact 2020 View Online

University of Limerick ‘Healthy UL’ Framework View Online

Video

UL Campus - Aerial Video

Websites

UL Research Centres View Online

44

www.ul.ie

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