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- Tasks: Lead UHI Perth, shaping the future of education and student success.
- Company: UHI Perth, a vibrant college in the heart of Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful leadership role, and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and inspire future generations.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in academic or related sectors.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and community development.
The predicted salary is between 108000 - 162000 £ per year.
UHI Perth is committed to supporting learners of all ages and backgrounds to gain skills, achieve qualifications, and progress into fulfilling careers. As a key partner within the University of the Highlands and Islands, we play an active role in delivering regional and national skills priorities. Based in the heart of Scotland, our Perth campus sits within a vibrant city offering a rich cultural heritage and an exceptional quality of life, combining professional opportunity with year-round outdoor adventure and community life.
This is a senior leadership opportunity to shape the future of UHI Perth. The postholder will provide strategic, academic, and operational leadership for the College, ensuring financial sustainability, high performance, and the delivery of public value. Working closely with staff, students, the Board of Management, and partners across UHI, you will lead transformation and innovation, align College strategy with wider UHI priorities, and ensure outstanding learning, teaching, and student outcomes across the tertiary landscape.
You will be an accomplished, values-driven leader with a strong track record in senior academic or sector-related leadership. A strategic thinker with sound business and financial acumen, you will bring deep understanding of curriculum development, educational policy, and the challenges facing further and higher education. With excellent interpersonal and influencing skills, you will inspire teams, foster a culture of respect and continuous improvement, build strong external partnerships, and lead confidently through change to deliver sustainable success for students, staff, and the wider community.
If you have any queries or wish to discuss the role further please contact: Katharine Price, Gillian Blackadder or Donogh O’Brien at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555.
Recruitment dates:
- Closing: midnight on Monday 16th February 2026
- Interviews: TBC to be held on or around w/c 2nd March 2026
Principal employer: Aspen People
Contact Detail:
Aspen People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at UHI Perth on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the culture and expectations, plus it shows our genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching UHI Perth's recent initiatives and challenges. We want to demonstrate that we’re not just a fit for the role but also passionate about their mission and ready to contribute to their strategic goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our leadership stories! Think of examples where we've led teams through change or innovation. This will help us articulate our experience effectively and show how we align with UHI Perth’s values-driven approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the UHI Perth community and contributing to its success.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand UHI Perth's mission and values. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their commitment to supporting learners and driving educational excellence.
Be Clear and Concise: When detailing your leadership experience, keep it straightforward. Use bullet points where possible to highlight key achievements and skills that demonstrate your strategic thinking and operational leadership.
Showcase Your Impact: Don’t just list your responsibilities; focus on the impact you've made in previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've driven transformation and innovation in educational settings.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. Make sure to double-check everything before hitting send, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspen People
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand UHI Perth's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their strategic goals and how they align with your own leadership philosophy. This will help you articulate how you can contribute to their vision during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in academic or sector-related roles. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led teams through change, fostered a culture of respect, and driven continuous improvement in previous positions.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the local community and its needs. Discuss how you plan to build strong external partnerships and engage with stakeholders to enhance student outcomes and public value. This shows you're not just focused on the institution but also on the wider impact.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that reflect your strategic thinking and interest in the role. Inquire about the challenges UHI Perth is currently facing and how they envision overcoming them. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your readiness to tackle complex issues head-on.
