Overview

Job role: University Secretary

Contract: 6-month fixed term

Location: Greater London (onsite during induction; hybrid thereafter)

Closing Date: 17th September 2025

Interview Date: 29th September 2025

A prestigious UK university, based on 600 acres of land, accessible from London, around 20–25 minutes by train to London King’s Cross or Moorgate station. They have recently granted full university status by Royal Charter, and are seeking an experienced and proactive University Secretary to join on an interim basis during a key period of development.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the University Secretary will lead and shape the institution’s governance, risk, and compliance frameworks, supporting the executive and the University Council. This is a leadership role managing a team of five across governance, data protection, and committee support.

Responsibilities

• Act as principal adviser to the COO, Council, and Executive on governance, risk, and compliance
• Lead and develop the governance function, including managing five staff (Governance Officers, DPO, Committee Admins)
• Lead on institutional risk management processes
• Oversee the administration of the University Council and formal committees
• Promote best practice in line with sector standards, OfS requirements, and the Nolan Principles

Requirements

• Significant senior-level experience working within UK higher education, with a deep understanding of HE governance principles and best practice, including the Nolan Principles
• A strong grasp of the legal, constitutional, policy, and regulatory environment in which UK universities operate, including governance trends and developments
• Experience acting as a Data Protection Officer, or holding equivalent responsibility for data protection and information compliance in a UK context
• Proven track record of leading on risk management processes at a senior level
• Substantial experience of committee administration, including writing and presenting papers to formal governance bodies
• Strong leadership and management experience, including leading professional admin teams within an HE setting

What’s on Offer

• 30 days annual leave, plus 3 concessionary days and bank holidays
• Access to on-site café, restaurant, and fitness & wellbeing centre (gym, classes, climbing wall)
• Free in-house and externally funded CPD
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free shuttle service from nearby stations

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Contract

Job function

• Quality Assurance, Legal, and Management

Industries

• Higher Education and Education

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