University of Toronto
Dean, Faculty of Law
Bold, future-focused, and deeply engaged—these are a few words that describe the qualities of the individual being sought for the role of Dean, Faculty of Law at the University of Toronto (U of T). At this pivotal moment in the Faculty’s trajectory, the University is conducting an international search for the position and welcomes applications, nominations, and expressions of interest.
Consistently ranked first in Canada and within the top 25 law schools worldwide by both QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, U of T’s Faculty of Law is home to a vibrant academic community that includes approximately 50 full-time professors, 875 JD and graduate students, adjunct and visiting scholars from top institutions, and a global network of nearly 12,000 alumni. Among its graduates are two Canadian Prime Ministers, 14 justices of the Supreme Court of Canada, and influential leaders across public life, academia, and the private sector. Through rigorous academic programs, innovative public interest clinics, and leadership in areas such as technology and the law, the Faculty prepares students to engage with—and help shape—a rapidly evolving legal landscape. For more information about the Faculty, visit https://www.law.utoronto.ca/.
Reporting to the Vice-President and Provost, the Dean serves as a member of the University’s senior leadership team and is responsible for shaping the Faculty’s strategic vision, advancing academic priorities, enhancing the student experience, and overseeing the effective administration of the division. In a role that combines academic leadership with executive oversight, the Dean will champion excellence in teaching, research, and public engagement, all while fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture that strengthens connections within the Faculty, across the University, and with broader legal, professional, and alumni communities.
The successful candidate will be a highly respected scholar and academic leader, with a track record of advancing legal education through excellence, innovation, and a commitment to equity. They will have demonstrated effective leadership in complex academic environments, earning a reputation for sound judgment, integrity, and the ability to foster thoughtful dialogue and meaningful collaboration. With a talent for building and inspiring community through relationships, the Dean brings experience as a catalyst for new opportunities across teaching, research, and clinical education, as well as the vision and credibility needed to serve as a compelling advocate and fundraiser for the Faculty. The individual best positioned for success in this role sees it as an opportunity to work closely with the Faculty as it collectively shapes the future of legal education and practice—empowering current and future leaders, and advancing the role of law in building a more just and equitable world.
The University will begin considering applicants immediately, and will continue to do so until the position is filled. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. Applications (including a letter of interest and curriculum vitae) can be sent to Jason Murray, President and Managing Partner at BES Executive Search Inc., by emailing jmurray@bessearch.com.
As Canada's top university and among the top 10 public universities globally, the University of Toronto is committed to fostering an exceptional community of researchers who make critical discoveries, address complex global challenges and educate future leaders.
Its global leadership in research and innovation is powered by exceptional scholars whose groundbreaking work shapes fundamental debates, informs policy and influences industry and government.
Located in the heart of Canada’s largest city, consistently ranked among the most livable in the world, the University of Toronto and its powerful academic hospital network enables its scholars to pursue bold ideas and lead transformative initiatives.
As one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, the University is a destination of choice for top global scholars. Amid today’s shifting geopolitics, Canada’s stable funding landscape and inclusive culture appeal to leading researchers seeking to collaborate on the world’s most pressing challenges.
The University of Toronto embraces diversity and is building a culture of belonging that increases its capacity to effectively address and serve the interests of our global community. They strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities. They value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening its academic mission.
The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please make Jason Murray aware using the email address above.
