At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Bristol University Press in strategic development and organisational growth.
- Company: Award-winning university press with a strong global reputation.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the future of scholarly publishing and lead a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a values-driven environment during a transformative period.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in senior publishing leadership and financial expertise.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace aiming for diversity and excellence.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Award-winning Bristol University Press (BUP), including its impact-driven Policy Press imprint, is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the Press through its next phase of strategic development. On entering its tenth anniversary year, Bristol University Press has rapidly established a strong international reputation for scholarly excellence.
As CEO you will provide strategic leadership, reinforce alignment with the University’s goals, drive financial sustainability, and lead organisational development in a fast-moving global publishing environment. This is a rare opportunity to lead a dynamic values-driven university press during a period of reorganisation whilst building on its global reputation and unique brand.
What will you be doing?
- Provide visionary leadership, shaping the Press’s strategic direction and delivering the Press’s strategic plan and operational objectives; ensuring alignment with the University’s vision and strategy.
- Ensure financial sustainability, through strategic financial planning, performance monitoring, and delivery of targets.
- Maintain excellence across the publishing programme upholding Bristol University Press’s high-quality standards whilst advancing Bristol University Press’s scholarly mission.
- Lead, inspire and develop a high performing team.
- Drive continuous improvement, innovation and creativity to enhance operational efficiency and market competitiveness.
- Represent Bristol University Press and the University globally, acting as a senior ambassador.
You should apply if
- You are an accomplished senior publishing leader with strong commercial and financial expertise and a track record of delivering results.
- You have deep experience of scholarly publishing.
- You thrive on leading strategic and organisational change to strengthen sustainability.
- You are an inspiring leader who builds high-performing teams, and leads with clarity and purpose.
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Wednesday 4th March 2026. The selection process will take place on Monday 23rd March. We will advise short-listed candidates of any changes to this date.
Our strategy and mission
We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values. The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.
Chief Executive Officer in Bristol employer: City of Bristol College
Contact Detail:
City of Bristol College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can open doors.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. We want you to walk in confidently, showing that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for the role and how you can drive the organisation forward. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or mentor to refine your delivery and ensure you come across as the inspiring leader they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We recommend reiterating your enthusiasm for the role and how you align with their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Vision: When applying for the CEO role, make sure to articulate your vision for Bristol University Press. We want to see how you plan to shape the strategic direction and align it with the University’s goals. Be bold and clear about your ideas!
Highlight Your Experience: Don’t hold back on showcasing your experience in scholarly publishing. We’re looking for someone with a strong track record, so share specific examples of how you've driven financial sustainability and led teams to success.
Emphasise Leadership Skills: As an inspiring leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate how you build high-performing teams. We want to know how you motivate and develop others, so include anecdotes that highlight your leadership style and impact.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of Bristol College
✨Know Your Vision
Before stepping into the interview, make sure you have a clear understanding of Bristol University Press's mission and strategic goals. Think about how your vision aligns with theirs and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their objectives.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential CEO, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've inspired teams and driven organisational change in previous roles. Highlight your ability to build high-performing teams and foster an inclusive environment.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Given the emphasis on financial sustainability, brush up on your financial planning and performance monitoring skills. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past that led to financial success in a publishing context.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Improvement
Bristol University Press is looking for someone who can drive continuous improvement. Come armed with ideas on how to enhance operational efficiency and market competitiveness. Share examples of innovative projects you've led that resulted in significant improvements.