I am a senior faculty member at a university in the United States. I learned that universities in the United Kingdom no longer maintain a tenure review system. Instead, they distinguish permanent and non-permanent positions for hire.

The tenure process can be stressful for applicants and senior department staff reviewing the tenure application. I know that the tenure system is for academic freedom. However, the UK system appeals to me. Most universities in the US have tenure guidelines and standards, but they are never clear.

I like to seek input from those in the UK and the US. Specifically, I want to hear from those in the UK how they like the system without the tenure review.