Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic university community and inspire change through strategic vision.
- Company: Glasgow Caledonian University is a purpose-driven institution focused on the Common Good.
- Benefits: Join a vibrant, collaborative environment with opportunities for global influence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while championing values and fostering inclusivity.
- Qualifications: Proven senior academic leadership experience with a strong strategic vision required.
- Other info: Apply by 1st September 2025 to be part of this transformative journey.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 126000 £ per year.
Job Description
Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is one of the UK’s most dynamic, purpose-driven universities, extending its influence far beyond regional and national borders. We are a mission-driven institution dedicated to the Common Good. With a demonstrable track record of transforming lives. We now seek a Vice-Chancellor who embodies our values, leads with purpose, communicates with clarity, and inspires through action.
This role is for a visionary builder of trust, teams, and futures. You will lead a high-performing executive team and a deeply engaged university community. Our students are leaders and global changemakers, our academics push boundaries, and our industry and policy partners seek our thought leadership in health, engineering, business, and social justice.
We are local, national, and truly global, and our campuses in Glasgow and London are vibrant, collaborative, and international. We are ranked as the top performing modern university in Scotland, and were named UK's Modern University of the Year by the Daily Mail University Guide 2025. We are financially secure but aim higher, rank well but aim further, and are proud but never complacent.
We need a visible, values-based leader who is comfortable in diverse environments – from our city campus in Glasgow to the corridors of Westminster, Holyrood, or the United Nations. You will be a guardian of our financial sustainability and a bold strategist, capable of securing generational stability.
We are looking for an inspirational and experienced leader with strategic vision, generational thinking, and a deep understanding of the dynamics of higher education to help shape and realise the University’s ambitions. Collaborative, competitive, and courageous, you will be commercially tested and financially fluent, with a proven track record of delivery in senior academic leadership. Above all, you will champion our values and mission, lead with integrity and purpose, and foster a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive institutional culture that enables all of our staff and students to flourish and thrive.
For further information on this exciting position, including details of how to apply, please visit www.odgers.com/93630
Closing date: Closing date: Monday 1st September 2025.
Principal and Vice-Chancellor employer: Glasgow Caledonian University
Contact Detail:
Glasgow Caledonian University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal and Vice-Chancellor
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former leaders in higher education, especially those who have experience in similar roles. Engaging in conversations with them can provide valuable insights into the expectations and challenges of the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Glasgow Caledonian University's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to the Common Good will help you articulate how your leadership style aligns with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for the future of higher education and how you would address current challenges in the sector. Being able to present innovative ideas will demonstrate your strategic thinking and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your experience in building trust and leading diverse teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've fostered inclusive environments and driven positive change in previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Principal and Vice-Chancellor position. Understand the key responsibilities, required skills, and the values that Glasgow Caledonian University embodies.
Craft a Tailored CV: Your CV should highlight your leadership experience, strategic vision, and any relevant achievements in higher education. Make sure to align your experiences with the values and mission of the university.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and how your background aligns with the university's goals. Use specific examples to demonstrate your leadership style and commitment to inclusivity and collaboration.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and professional, reflecting the high standards expected for such a senior position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Glasgow Caledonian University
✨Understand the University's Mission
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand Glasgow Caledonian University's mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their commitment to the Common Good and how you can contribute to their vision.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a candidate for Vice-Chancellor, it's crucial to articulate your strategic vision for the university. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led initiatives in higher education that align with the university's goals, particularly in areas like health, engineering, and social justice.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Given the emphasis on financial sustainability, be ready to discuss your experience with budget management and financial strategy. Highlight specific instances where you've secured funding or improved financial performance in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Collaborative Leadership
The role requires leading a high-performing executive team and engaging with a diverse community. Share examples of how you've fostered collaboration and inclusivity in past positions, and how you plan to build trust and inspire teams at GCU.
