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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance, risk, and compliance for a prestigious university while managing a dedicated team.
- Company: Join a newly established UK university with a vibrant campus just 20-25 minutes from London.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a competitive pension, and access to fitness facilities.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative period in higher education, shaping governance and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in UK higher education governance and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Hybrid working model after induction; support available for applicants needing adjustments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Job Description
- Act as principal adviser to the COO, Council, and Executive on governance, risk, and compliance
- Lead and develop the governance function, including managing five staff (Governance Officers, DPO, Committee Admins)
- Lead on institutional risk management processes
- Oversee the administration of the University Council and formal committees
- Promote best practice in line with sector standards, OfS requirements, and the Nolan Principles
Ideal candidates must have:
- Significant senior-level experience working within UK higher education, with a deep understanding of HE governance principles and best practice, including the Nolan Principles
- A strong grasp of the legal, constitutional, policy, and regulatory environment in which UK universities operate, including governance trends and developments
- Experience acting as a Data Protection Officer, or holding equivalent responsibility for data protection and information compliance in a UK context
- Proven track record of leading on risk management processes at a senior level
- Substantial experience of committee administration, including writing and presenting papers to formal governance bodies
- Strong leadership and management experience, including leading professional admin teams within an HE setting
What’s on Offer
- 30 days annual leave, plus 3 concessionary days and bank holidays
- Competitive pension scheme
- Access to on-site café, restaurant, and fitness & wellbeing centre (gym, classes, climbing wall)
- Free in-house and externally funded CPD
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free shuttle service from nearby stations
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.
University Secretary employer: TPP Recruitment
Contact Detail:
TPP Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land University Secretary
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the higher education sector, especially those who have experience in governance and compliance roles. Attend relevant conferences or seminars to meet potential colleagues and learn about current trends in university governance.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Nolan Principles and other governance frameworks specific to UK universities. Being able to discuss these principles confidently during your interview will demonstrate your understanding of the role and its responsibilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership experience by thinking of specific examples where you successfully managed teams or led projects in a higher education context. This will help you illustrate your capability to lead the governance function effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the university's recent developments and challenges, particularly regarding governance and compliance. Being knowledgeable about their current situation will allow you to tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace University Secretary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in governance, risk management, and compliance within higher education. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and understanding of the legal and regulatory environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying to this role. Address how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the University Secretary and mention any specific achievements that showcase your expertise in governance and committee administration.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise your senior-level experience in UK higher education. Discuss your familiarity with the Nolan Principles and any previous roles where you acted as a Data Protection Officer or managed risk processes.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a leadership role like the University Secretary.
How to prepare for a job interview at TPP Recruitment
✨Understand Governance and Compliance
Make sure you have a solid grasp of governance principles, especially the Nolan Principles. Be prepared to discuss how these apply to the role and share examples from your past experience in higher education.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Highlight your leadership skills by discussing your experience managing teams, particularly in governance or compliance settings. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead effectively and support your team.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Risk Management
Since this role involves overseeing risk management processes, be ready to talk about your approach to identifying and mitigating risks. Share any relevant experiences where you successfully managed risks in a previous position.
✨Prepare for Committee Administration Questions
Expect questions related to committee administration and your experience writing and presenting papers. Think of instances where you contributed to formal governance bodies and be ready to explain your process and outcomes.
