Head Of Department Duties

Department heads are responsible for providing academic and administrative leadership within their departments. Their core duties typically include:

• Enhancing communication within the department and between the department and other departments, administration, and external constituencies^[1].
• Overseeing daily operations, organizing and conducting department meetings, appointing departmental committees, and preparing reports for senior management^[1].
• Developing and implementing departmental policies and ensuring department activities comply with institutional guidelines^[5].
• Managing staff: handling hiring, onboarding, evaluation, supervision, and professional development of departmental members^[2].
• Budget and resource management: preparing annual budgets, authorizing expenditures, and ensuring proper care and use of departmental property^[1].
• Curriculum and program oversight: leading curriculum development, proposing new academic programs, and maintaining high standards in teaching and research^[3].
• Student affairs: maintaining discipline, appointing class committees, and ensuring a positive academic environment^[3].
• Strategic planning: setting department goals, developing improvement strategies, and aligning departmental objectives with institutional priorities^[6].
• Team leadership: motivating staff, creating a collaborative environment, and advocating for the department’s needs and interests^[7].
• Performance monitoring: overseeing the quality of instruction, research, and extension programs, and ensuring compliance with policies and standards^[5].

References

• [1] Appointment and Responsibilities of Department Heads, Program Chairs and Conveners
• [2] Department Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025] – Indeed
• [3] Job Description for HOD – Crescent. education
• [5] Duties and Responsibilities of Department Head, District Director or Unit Coordinator
• [6] 5 Key Responsibilities of a Department Manager Role – Status Hub
• [7] What Does a Department Head Do? Duties, Skills and Salary – Indeed