Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research and innovation at a transformative time for the University of Kent.
- Company: Join a prestigious university shaping the future of higher education.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and the chance to make a lasting impact.
- Why this job: Be a key player in defining the future of research and international engagement.
- Qualifications: Strong academic leadership, research experience, and a record of innovation.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence national conversations in higher education.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Pro-Vice Chancellor – Research, Innovation & International
The University of Kent stands at a defining moment in its history. As discussions progress around a potential merger with the University of Greenwich, we are seeking an outstanding academic leader to help shape the future of research, innovation and international engagement during a period of significant transformation.
Anderson Quigley is proud to be partnering with the University of Kent at this pivotal time to appoint an exceptional individual on a 12-month fixed-term basis.
This role calls for someone who can combine vision with steadiness – ensuring that Kent continues to deliver world-class research and global impact while supporting colleagues and students through an evolving landscape. You will help the University build on its heritage of creativity, collaboration and ambition, playing a central role in defining what comes next.
Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, you will lead the strategic development of Kent\’s research and innovation portfolio, foster international partnerships, and champion an environment where ideas flourish and people thrive. As Pro-Vice-Chancellor, you will drive the University\’s research agenda, supporting innovation across Schools and strengthening its global profile, reputation and impact. You will use your experience and judgement to navigate complex challenges, interpreting the evolving higher education landscape to shape forward-looking policy and institutional direction.
We are looking for a values-led academic leader with a strong research profile, a record of innovation and external engagement, and the ability to lead with credibility and confidence through complexity and change. You will bring an understanding of research assessment and the experience to integrate international strategy across diverse portfolios.
This is a rare opportunity to lead at a moment of real change – influencing the national conversation on the future of higher education and leaving a lasting legacy at one of the UK\’s most distinctive universities.
We would accept interest from people looking to work 4 or 5 days a week.
Closing date: 3 November 2025
As part of the application process, please upload:
- A full CV detailing career and achievements
- A cover letter of no more than two pages that addresses your motivation and suitability for the role.
Please contact Claire Lauder for an informal conversation
Pro-Vice Chancellor employer: Anderson Quigley
Contact Detail:
Anderson Quigley Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pro-Vice Chancellor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former colleagues in academia, attend relevant conferences, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. Building connections can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the University of Kent's recent initiatives and challenges. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about contributing to their vision during this transformative period.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for research and innovation clearly and confidently. We want to hear how you plan to lead and inspire others in this evolving landscape.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Pro-Vice Chancellor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure it reflects your passion for the role and highlights how your experience aligns with the University of Kent's vision. Keep it concise, but don’t shy away from showcasing your unique qualities.
Tailor Your CV: We want to see how you fit into our world! Customise your CV to highlight relevant achievements and experiences that speak directly to the Pro-Vice Chancellor role. Use keywords from the job description to make it pop!
Showcase Your Leadership Style: As an academic leader, we’re keen to understand your approach. In your application, share examples of how you've navigated complex challenges and fostered innovation. This will help us see your potential impact at Kent.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Anderson Quigley
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your vision for research and innovation at the University of Kent. Be ready to articulate how you would lead the strategic development of their portfolio and foster international partnerships. This will show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but that you have a clear plan for its future.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your strong research profile and record of innovation. Think about challenges you've navigated and how your judgement has shaped outcomes. This will help you illustrate your ability to lead with credibility and confidence through complexity and change.
✨Engage with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the University of Kent's values and culture. During the interview, connect your personal values and leadership style to theirs. This alignment will resonate well with the interviewers and show that you’re not only qualified but also a cultural fit for the institution.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the evolving higher education landscape. Inquire about their current challenges and opportunities in research and innovation. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and your proactive approach to shaping the university's future.