At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the University of South Wales, inspiring 23,000 students and nearly 2,000 staff.
- Company: Join a dynamic institution with over 180 years of heritage, committed to societal impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture, opportunities for innovation, and a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in higher education, shaping futures and communities.
- Qualifications: Bring significant senior leadership experience and a deep understanding of higher education.
- Other info: We actively encourage applications from under-represented groups and offer guaranteed interviews for disabled candidates.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Driven by a profound commitment to widening access, real-world learning, and positive societal impact, the University of South Wales is seeking our next Vice-Chancellor who will champion our core values of Professional, Responsive, Creative, Inspiring, and Collaborative. Originating more than 180 years ago, the University of South Wales is a dynamic and inclusive institution that is proud of its heritage, deeply connected to the region, and ambitious for the future.
This is a pivotal moment in the University’s journey. The University of South Wales Group, comprising of the University of South Wales, Merthyr Tydfil College and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, plays a vital civic, economic, and cultural role across Wales and beyond. During a period of challenge for the Higher Education sector more broadly, we are embarking on an ambitious period of renewal - redefining our academic delivery and student offer, strengthening our research culture, and shaping a university fit for a new era of higher education.
Our next Vice-Chancellor will be a bold and imaginative leader, with the capacity to inspire and support our community of 23,000 students and nearly 2,000 staff based across our three campuses in Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd and internationally. Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Governors, the Vice-Chancellor will build on strong foundations working collaboratively across the University to drive innovation and articulate a compelling case for our mission, values and contribution. At the same time, you will ensure strong institutional performance maintaining financial sustainability, enhancing organisational effectiveness, and nurturing a culture of openness, respect, and shared ambition.
Bringing significant senior leadership experience and a deep understanding of higher education, you will champion our legacy and confidently take us into the next chapter whilst remaining firmly rooted in our mission to transform lives and our world for the better. This is a role that demands presence, agility, and authenticity. The Vice-Chancellor will be a powerful advocate for the University championing its role in Welsh civic life, influencing national debate, and ensuring that USW remains visible, relevant, and values-led.
You will also be a collaborative internal leader, empowering colleagues, investing in the leadership pipeline, and enabling all parts of the University community to thrive. USW is a university with heart, purpose, and reach. It is a place where people work together to solve real problems, remove barriers to opportunity, and shape a more inclusive future. If you share that ethos and can match our ambition, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Our commitment to supporting talented people from all backgrounds has been recognised by Athena SWAN, Stonewall Diversity Champion, and Disability Confident. Here at the University of South Wales we are challenging ourselves to think and act differently. As such, we are enhancing and developing our equality, diversity and inclusion learning opportunities across the institution. Ensuring our commitment to employing a diverse workforce is reflective of our growing diverse student population. Moving us from words to actions in our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive environment for all. Colleagues are welcomed to be their authentic selves and every person is treated with dignity and respect. To enable our student population to see themselves within our workforce we actively encourage applicants from under-represented groups and differing socio-economic backgrounds.
As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee that all disabled candidates who meet all the key criteria for the job vacancy they are applying for are offered an interview.
The closing date for applications is 23:59 (BST) on Sunday 20th July 2025.
Vice-Chancellor (Basé à Cardiff) employer: Golden Bees
Contact Detail:
Golden Bees Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice-Chancellor (Basé à Cardiff)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the core values of the University of South Wales. As a candidate for Vice-Chancellor, demonstrating how your leadership style aligns with their values of being Professional, Responsive, Creative, Inspiring, and Collaborative will be crucial in your discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends and challenges in higher education, particularly those affecting Wales. Being able to articulate a vision that addresses these issues while promoting inclusivity and innovation will set you apart as a strong candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with key stakeholders within the higher education sector in Wales. Building relationships with influential figures can provide insights into the university's culture and priorities, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in driving organisational change and fostering a culture of collaboration. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led teams through transformation, as this will resonate with the university's ambitions for renewal.
We think you need these skills to ace Vice-Chancellor (Basé à Cardiff)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Vice-Chancellor position. Understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the values that the University of South Wales champions. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with these aspects.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your interest in the role but also demonstrate your understanding of the university's mission and values. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your leadership skills and commitment to diversity and inclusion, as these are crucial for this position.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on your senior leadership experience within higher education or related fields. Use quantifiable achievements to illustrate your impact in previous roles, especially those that align with the university's goals of innovation, collaboration, and community engagement.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, ensure that all documents are free from errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism. Consider asking a colleague or mentor to review your application materials for feedback.
How to prepare for a job interview at Golden Bees
✨Understand the University’s Values
Familiarise yourself with the core values of the University of South Wales: Professional, Responsive, Creative, Inspiring, and Collaborative. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style aligns with these values and how you can embody them in your role as Vice-Chancellor.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your significant senior leadership experience in higher education. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to inspire and support a diverse community, drive innovation, and maintain financial sustainability within an institution.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
Given the University’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, be ready to discuss your strategies for fostering an inclusive environment. Share specific initiatives you have led or participated in that promote diversity within the workforce and student body.
✨Articulate a Vision for the Future
Prepare to articulate a compelling vision for the future of the University. Discuss how you would navigate the challenges facing higher education and what innovative approaches you would implement to redefine academic delivery and enhance the student experience.