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- Tasks: Lead Aston University through its next phase of growth and global impact.
- Company: Aston University, a pioneering institution with a strong commitment to education and innovation.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the future of education and make a real-world impact.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming lives through education and research.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in higher education and a commitment to excellence.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on global engagement and industry collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Aston University is seeking an outstanding Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive to provide ambitious leadership through the University’s next phase of delivery, growth and global impact.
With a proud heritage as the UK’s first College of Advanced Technology in 1956, Aston became a distinctive, values-led university in 1966. Aston has a powerful mission: to transform lives through education, research and innovation that delivers real-world impact. Renowned for employability, applied learning, business engagement and social mobility, Aston today stands on a strong platform following a period of significant progress and transformation.
The University is organised across three Colleges: Business and Social Sciences, home to our Triple-Accredited Business School; Engineering and Physical Sciences; and Health and Life Sciences, including our growing Medical School. These are complemented by the growing Aston Online and Aston Professional offers, all with a strong focus on applied, industry-relevant education and research. Aston’s academic model is deliberately practical, outward-facing and aligned to the needs of students, employers and society.
Aston is also extending its reach through a developing network of global academic hubs, including Aston University London, and internationally in locations such as Egypt and Dubai, alongside wider partnerships across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. These hubs reflect Aston’s strategic focus on growth, diversification and global engagement, and provide platforms for high-quality education, industry collaboration and international partnerships.
Following a period of decisive leadership, Aston now seeks a Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive who can build on this momentum. You will lead the continued delivery and evolution of the Aston 2030 Strategy, which is designed to deliver a step change in the University’s global reach, reputation and impact across the breadth of its activity. You will bring the experience, judgement and dynamic leadership required to translate this ambition into measurable success.
Leading confidently in a changing and competitive UK and global higher education environment, you will sustain momentum while exercising the ability to prioritise, sequence and reshape activity to ensure focus, resilience and long-term sustainability. This is a role that calls for strategic clarity, sound judgement and the ability to balance ambition with disciplined execution.
You will bring credible academic leadership and a strong commitment to educational excellence, equitable opportunity and outstanding student outcomes. You will champion applied, impactful research and innovation, strengthen links with industry and employers, and ensure Aston’s graduates are digitally fluent, workplace-ready and equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing technological and societal landscape. Aston already works with leading organisations such as Capgemini, Microsoft and a wide range of regional, national and international partners, and you will build on these relationships to further enhance impact and opportunity.
As Aston’s principal ambassador, you will build and deepen influential relationships with business, government, healthcare partners, civic leaders and benefactors. You will represent Aston with confidence and authenticity, strengthening its profile and reputation locally, nationally and internationally. Central to the role is a visible commitment to Birmingham and the West Midlands, including Aston’s role within the Birmingham Innovation Quarter and wider civic and economic partnerships, alongside an ambition to extend the University’s global presence and influence.
We are seeking a leader with gravitas and integrity, and the ambition and emotional intelligence to inspire confidence, bring people with them and lead effectively through change. You will combine academic credibility with commercial acumen, strategic insight with collaborative leadership, and a strong sense of purpose with an inclusive, empowering approach.
This is a rare opportunity to lead an ambitious, entrepreneurial and socially committed university that makes opportunity real, locally and globally. If you share Aston’s values and have the vision and capability to lead it forward, we would be delighted to hear from you.
The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday 16th February.
A cover letter (maximum of three pages) outlining your vision for Aston, your motivations for the role and how you meet the essential criteria of the person specification is required. Please include details of two referees in either your CV or covering letter, though please note that we will not approach your referees without your prior consent and only should you be shortlisted.
Should you wish to discuss the role in strict confidence, please contact:
- Carolyn Coates at carolyn.coates@andersonquigley.com or +44 (0)7825 871 944
- Kiersten Avery at kiersten.avery@andersonquigley.com or +44 (0)7510 384 735
- Ed Pritchard at ed.pritchard@andersonquigley.com or +44 (0)7980 817 927
Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive employer: Aston University
Contact Detail:
Aston University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Aston University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Aston's recent projects and initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also in the university’s mission and future.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our pitch! We should be ready to articulate our vision for Aston and how we can contribute to its growth. Confidence is key, so let’s rehearse with a friend or mentor.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us on their radar and show our enthusiasm for the position. Let’s make it memorable!
We think you need these skills to ace Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to outline your vision for Aston and how your experience aligns with the role. Keep it engaging and personal, showing us why you're the perfect fit.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience and achievements that match the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission and values.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Aston!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aston University
✨Understand Aston's Vision
Before the interview, dive deep into Aston University's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their 2030 Strategy and how it aims to enhance global reach and impact. This will help you articulate how your leadership aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your past leadership roles, especially in higher education or similar sectors. Highlight how you've successfully navigated change and driven growth, as this is crucial for the Vice-Chancellor role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would build relationships with key stakeholders, including business leaders and government officials. Be ready to discuss your strategies for collaboration and how you can enhance Aston's partnerships.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
This role requires a leader who can inspire and empower others. Prepare to discuss how you've fostered inclusive environments and led teams through challenges, showcasing your emotional intelligence and ability to connect with diverse groups.
