Middle-level academic managers play a central role in university management; however, their roles are not always clear and straightforward. Although this research subject has been comprehensively investigated in the last 40 years, most studies are western-biased. This study examines the roles of Heads of Department in a newly established university in Vietnam to fill this literature gap. Through 24 interviews and document analysis, the study finds that the main task areas of the Heads of Department centre on programme management, academic staff management and facilities management. Other areas such as strategic management and budget management appear to be neglected. The paper supports the findings of the existing literature that Heads of Departments' responsibilities vary in detail and the roles demanded are governed in large measure by departmental contexts. The study concludes that the Heads of Department enjoy a low level of autonomy and also act more as managers than as leaders. It is recommended that an enhanced leadership role should be given to the Heads of Department so that they can perform to the best of their ability, hence improving university performance. (Contains 1 table and 5 notes.)