CEPT University has initiated an international search process to identify and appoint a Dean for its Faculty of Design. As a first stage in process CEPT University invites applications from design practitioners and academics and nominations from individuals and institutions for this position.

CEPT University is a more than 50-year-old educational institution focused on understanding, designing, planning, constructing and managing human habitats. Its teaching programs are designed to build thoughtful professionals and its research programs aim to deepen our understanding of human habitat.  CEPT University also undertakes advisory projects to further the goal of making habitats more livable. Faculties at the University function as a collaborative of full-time faculty members and highly engaged practitioners who share teaching and institutional responsibilities.

The Faculty of Design was originally established as the School of Interior Design, in 1991.  Nurtured by accomplished designers and academics, it is widely considered to be a center for education and research in Interior Design in India. Though relatively young, the Faculty prides itself on many of its alumni being distinguished professionals. Starting with programs in Interior Design, the Faculty has recently added a master’s program in Furniture Design. Going forward, the Faculty will expand to be more a design school.

This opportunity to lead this well-established and dynamic Faculty to being more focused on design should be attractive for someone with a vision for charting a new path for design education in India. Design can have a tremendous impact on every aspect of daily life of the common people.  The ideal candidate for this position would be convinced of the need to challenge present notions of design and the role of the designer, and will push the boundaries between design (including its sub-disciplines such as furniture design), engineering and architecture.

The new Dean would promote a “culture of design” integrated with manufacturing and production, that will value innovation focused on needs of the user, and enhance the quality of people’s lives. The ideal candidate would bring an academic background and professional experience focused on design.  The candidate would have worked in industry or as a design professional and would be able to bring together design professionals with varied expertise from around the globe to take this vision forward.

The Dean will be responsible for overseeing the functioning of the Faculty of Design, mentoring and supporting staff members, encouraging research, and attracting the most appropriate talent to teach at the Faculty.

The appointment of the Dean, is for a three-year period, but may be extended for another three-year term following a review process. The position is open to candidates from any location. Remuneration is competitive and commensurate with qualification and accomplishments of the candidate.

Priority consideration will be given to applications and nominations received by the 30th January 2017, although the review process will continue until the position is filled. The position is available immediately.

Electronic applications and nominations are preferred and may be submitted to the University Staff Office: uso[at]cept.ac.in 

Questions may be directed to: Anu Sutaria Head, University Staff Office (anu.sutaria[at]cept.ac.in)