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.
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We think this is how you could land Senior Assistant to Head of School
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Assistant to Head of School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what SRUC does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at SRUC
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with SRUC will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at SRUC.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with SRUC.
