At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide strategic support to the Head of School and manage a dynamic office environment.
- Company: Join SRUC, Scotland's pioneering School of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, enhanced pension, hybrid working, and tailored development opportunities.
- Other info: Exciting role with senior stakeholders and excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of innovation in veterinary education and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field or Business Management; strong research and communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Closing date for applications: 19th March 2026
About The Team
SRUC’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences (SVMB), the first new School of Veterinary Medicine in Scotland for 150 years, was founded on the organisation’s established, high‑profile expertise across this sector. SVMB is a natural evolution of SRUC’s established, interprofessional and highly acclaimed expertise in Veterinary and Animal Biosciences. In combination with our unique reach into the Scottish sector, we will drive excellence. Our collegiate approach will facilitate synergies, addressing skills, knowledge and enterprise gaps across the breadth of this sector – providing essential support to Scotland’s Natural Economy.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a highly capable Senior Assistant to the Head of School to provide outstanding strategic and executive support at the heart of our organisation. In this pivotal role, you will work closely with the Head of School to ensure they are equipped with the insight, information and support needed to lead effectively. You will manage a dynamic office environment, oversee key business processes, coordinate high‑level meetings and engagements, and act as a trusted advisor on emerging issues and priorities. This is a fantastic opportunity for a proactive, relationship‑focused professional who enjoys variety, responsibility and working with senior stakeholders. You will use your research, analytical and communication skills to prepare briefings, reports and presentations, support key decision‑making, and represent the Head of School in interactions with partners, colleagues and external organisations.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must be educated to SCQF Level 9 (degree level) in a relevant discipline such as Genetics, Life Sciences, Agriculture, or a related scientific field. Applicants with qualifications in Business Management or an MBA will also be considered.
Eligibility for Sponsorship
This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. If you are a migrant worker, you will need to ensure you have an appropriate visa to evidence the necessary right to work in the UK.
Why work for SRUC?
- Generous annual leave
- Enhanced pension contributions
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted RAC Membership
- Generous family leave
- Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)
- Tailored investment in individuals' learning and development
How to Apply
Please complete an online application form by pressing “apply”. Please read the Job Particulars document before applying.
SRUC is committed to valuing Diversity, advancing Equality and respecting Human Rights throughout the organisation and encouraging applications from disabled people using the “Disability Confident Employer” symbol. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.
Senior Assistant to Head of School employer: SRUC
SRUC is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises diversity and inclusion while fostering professional growth in the field of agricultural technology and mechanisation. Located at the Kings Building Campus in Edinburgh, employees benefit from generous annual leave, enhanced pension contributions, and flexible hybrid working options, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in education and research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Assistant to Head of School
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at SRUC, especially those in the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in veterinary medicine and biosciences. Show us that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field and how SRUC is making waves in it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Senior Assistant, you'll need to convey information clearly and effectively. Try mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with articulating your thoughts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the SRUC team!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Assistant to Head of School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Particulars:Before you dive into your application, make sure to read the Job Particulars document thoroughly. It’s packed with essential info about what we’re looking for and will help you tailor your application to stand out.
Showcase Your Skills:When writing your application, highlight your research, analytical, and communication skills. We want to see how you can support our Head of School and contribute to our dynamic environment, so don’t hold back!
Be Personal and Professional:While it’s important to maintain a professional tone, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. We’re looking for someone who is proactive and relationship-focused, so show us who you are!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to complete your application through our website by hitting that 'apply' button. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at SRUC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences. Familiarise yourself with their mission, recent projects, and any key figures like Wayne Powell. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your skills to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your research, analytical, and communication skills. Think about how you’ve successfully managed dynamic office environments or coordinated high-level meetings in the past. Be ready to discuss these experiences in detail.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your understanding of the role and the organisation. Inquire about the challenges the Head of School faces or how the team collaborates on strategic initiatives. This not only shows your interest but also your proactive mindset.
✨Be Personable
Since this role involves working closely with senior stakeholders, it’s crucial to come across as approachable and relationship-focused. Practice your interpersonal skills and be ready to engage in a friendly yet professional manner during the interview.
