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- Tasks: Lead and transform one of Scotland's largest colleges, shaping the future of education.
- Company: Join a dynamic institution committed to academic excellence and student success.
- Benefits: Enjoy a thriving community, strong partnerships, and a culture of innovation.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on education while inspiring a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience, passion for student success, and financial acumen required.
- Other info: This role is about legacy and influencing the future of tertiary education in Scotland.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you an exceptional leader ready to shape the future of tertiary education in Scotland? We are seeking a visionary, dynamic, and strategic leader to take on the role of Principal and Chief Executive at one of Scotland’s largest and most influential colleges. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to work with our amazing team to drive transformation, innovation, and long-term sustainability, ensuring our college remains a leader in academic excellence, student success, and sector-wide impact., As Principal and Chief Executive, you will serve as the strategic leader and driving force behind the College’s continued growth and success. Reporting to the Board of Management, you will be responsible for:
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Developing and delivering an ambitious vision that enhances the College’s position as an outstanding institution for students, staff, and employers.
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Providing inspirational leadership, ensuring a high-performing, inclusive, and engaged workforce.
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Driving financial sustainability by diversifying income streams, reducing reliance on government funding, and fostering strategic partnerships.
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Enhancing the student experience, ensuring exceptional outcomes, employability, and well-being.
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Strengthening stakeholder engagement with government, industry, policymakers, and communities to expand the College’s reach and impact.
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Ensuring operational excellence, sound governance, and robust decision-making in a period of sector transformation.
This role is about more than just leadership-it is about legacy. You will shape not only the future of the College but also influence the evolution of tertiary education in Scotland., * A thriving student community with outstanding retention, academic achievement, and employability outcomes.
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A financially resilient and growing institution, with sustainable funding and diversified income streams.
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A sector-leading workforce that feels empowered, engaged, and invested in the College’s future.
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Strong and productive partnerships, increasing the College’s influence on regional and national economic priorities.
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A culture of excellence, agility, and innovation, ensuring the College remains at the forefront of tertiary education.
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Proven strategic leadership experience in a complex organisation, with the ability to drive transformation and inspire high-performing teams.
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A deep passion for student success and well-being, ensuring learners remain at the heart of every decision.
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A strong track record of financial and business acumen, with the ability to identify and capitalise on new income opportunities.
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Exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with government, industry, and community partners.
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A deep understanding of the Scottish tertiary education landscape, including its challenges and opportunities.
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An entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to pioneer new initiatives and position the College as a leader in innovation and skills development.
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A values-driven approach, ensuring inclusivity, social mobility, and a thriving organisational culture.
Principal and Chief Executive employer: West College Scotland
Contact Detail:
West College Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal and Chief Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former leaders in the Scottish tertiary education sector. Attend relevant conferences and events to connect with key stakeholders and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities facing colleges today.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the college's recent initiatives and strategic goals. Understanding their current projects and future aspirations will help you articulate how your vision aligns with theirs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in driving transformation and innovation. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and implemented change in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarize yourself with the financial landscape of the college and the broader education sector. Being able to speak knowledgeably about funding models and income diversification strategies will demonstrate your business acumen.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal and Chief Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Principal and Chief Executive position. Reflect on how your experience aligns with the strategic leadership and transformational goals outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only highlights your qualifications but also conveys your vision for the future of tertiary education in Scotland. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your ability to drive innovation and enhance student success.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasize your strategic leadership experience, particularly in complex organizations. Showcase your achievements in financial sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and enhancing student outcomes to illustrate your fit for the role.
Showcase Your Passion: Make sure to express your deep passion for student success and well-being throughout your application. This can be done by sharing personal anecdotes or initiatives you have led that prioritize learners and inclusivity.
How to prepare for a job interview at West College Scotland
✨Demonstrate Your Visionary Leadership
Be prepared to articulate your ambitious vision for the college and how you plan to enhance its position as a leading institution. Share specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully drove transformation and innovation.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Highlight your experience in building strong relationships with various stakeholders, including government, industry, and community partners. Discuss strategies you've used to strengthen engagement and expand influence in previous roles.
✨Emphasize Financial Acumen and Sustainability
Discuss your track record in driving financial sustainability through diversified income streams. Be ready to share innovative ideas on reducing reliance on government funding and fostering strategic partnerships.
✨Passion for Student Success
Convey your deep passion for student success and well-being. Provide examples of how you've prioritized the student experience in your leadership roles and the positive outcomes that resulted from your initiatives.
