Embedded in two worlds: The university academic manager’s work, identity and social relations

Abstract

The university academic manager (AM) or head of school/department is typically positioned in a hierarchical world: as a middle manager ‘sandwiched’ between senior management and subordinates. I propose a different framing: the AM cohabits two worlds, the worlds of hierarchy and collegiality respectively. Using an ideal type framework and data based mainly on interviews with 20 AMs, I examine AMs’ tasks, identity and social relations, showing that AMs adopt a dual work identity that is associated with the ‘two worlds’ imagery which explains their orientation towards their tasks and social relations. This interpretation enables a deeper understanding of how AMs enact their role and encourages dialogue about the future of middle-level university management.