Were seeking applications to take the PSA forward as its Chair or Vice-Chair starting in 2023.

The Political Studies Association was established in 1950 and exists to develop and promote the study of Politics and related disciplines for the benefit of the public.

Much has been achieved under the current Chair Professor Roger Awan-Scully and Vice-Chair Professor Claire Dunlop whose terms come to an end in 2023. Roger has detailed his experience of being the PSAs chair in this recent blog, giving insight to what the role entails and what an great leadership opportunity it is. The PSA’s Trustees are now keen to receive applications from senior colleagues within the discipline who are willing to lead the association as its Chair or Vice-Chair. Both positions will run for three years from June 2023 and will be announced at the PSA’s annual assembly/AGM at PSA23 on or around 4 April.

Applications should be sent to the Chair of the Search Committee, PSA Honorary Secretary Professor John Craig at [email protected] by Friday 4 November 2022. Interviews will be held in January 2023.

Role specification

The role of the Chair and Vice Chair are set out on page 5 and 6 of the PSA Bye-laws. These are subject to change through decisions of a PSA  AGM or EGM.

The role of Chair requires a time commitment across the annual cycle equivalent to around one day per week (including some trips to PSA HQ in London). Calendar commitments for both Chair and Vice chair include full Executive and Senior Leadership Team meetings (eight per annum); the annual conference (usually the week before Easter); and the PSA  Annual Lecture (November/December).

In addition, the Chair holds at least quarterly review meetings with the CEO and is expected to be active and visible at a range of association events. The Chair will also receive a significant number of invitations for formal and informal meetings with a range of professional, civil society, governmental and parliamentary bodies, some of these commitments may be delegated to the Vice-Chair, other trustees and the CEO. 

How to Apply

All applicants will be expected to submit an application consisting of the following documents: 

1. A letter of application (of no more than two-sides) that includes a clear indication experience and expertise that the applicant would bring to the role;
2. A supporting statement that provides a clear outline of:
   • The key strategic challenges facing the PSA as a learned society and the discipline of Politics;
   • The strategic priorities for the PSA in addressing these challenges;
   • The candidate’s approach to the leadership of a learned society; and how they will work with Trustees and the Chief Executive in an effective partnership;
   • How the candidate will champion the Equality and Diversity Strategy of the PSA.
3. A full CV;
4. The names of two referees who are PSA members (excluding current members of the PSA’s Executive Committee); and
5. A statement of institutional support (Vice Chancellor/Principal/Dean of Faculty/Head of School as appropriate) for the application.