In 2011, Najam returned to Pakistan to head the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) as its third vice-chancellor. During his tenure at LUMS, he oversaw the launch of a major student financial aid program and brought in major philanthropic gifts to enable an expansion of the university.[3][4] However, he faced criticism for not intervening over the controversial termination of Pervez Hoodbhoy by the University's School of Science and Engineering.[5] Najam left LUMS in June 2013,[6] and returned to Boston University. A year later he was appointed the inaugural dean of Pardee School and continues till date.[7][8][9][10]