This is in effect a realization of what the Jarratt report believed would be an important factor in the changing role of a HOD[1]. The report concluded that, in future, HODs should be good managers as well as distinguished academics, and went further to say that if an individual did not possess both attributes, then the qualities of managerial capability should be given priority in the future selection of a HOD. However, the findings of this study suggested a gradual change in the way that most HODs perceived the need for management skills and training; a much greater cultural change will have to take place before HODs agree with the views of Jarratt.