At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative culture change initiatives at one of the world's top universities.
- Company: UCL is London's Global University, dedicated to inclusivity and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days holiday, a pension scheme, gym access, and more perks.
- Other info: We encourage applications from underrepresented groups to enhance our diverse community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of EDI in higher education and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in behaviour change, stakeholder engagement, and understanding of academic communities.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Lead Transformational Culture Change at One of the World’s Top Universities. At UCL – London’s Global University, we are committed to creating a university community that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of the diverse world we serve. We are now seeking an assured, experienced and visionary Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (Behaviour and Culture Change) to play a vital role in shaping our institution-wide culture change agenda.
With a new 5-year EDI strategy launching in 2025, this senior leadership post is an opportunity to drive impactful, measurable behavioural change in one of the most complex and influential academic environments in the world.
About the role
This role sits within the HR Directorate and will lead the strategic design and delivery of university-wide behaviour and culture change initiatives. You’ll champion EDI values, oversee learning and development programmes, and act as a critical partner in embedding EDI across policies, practices and governance structures. You’ll also lead UCL’s work on religion and belief inclusion, anti-harassment campaigns, and responses to sensitive, high-profile EDI matters that affect staff and students.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead and embed a clear strategic vision for behavioural and cultural change at scale within a large, federated institution.
- Foster a collaborative, accountable and purpose-driven team culture, empowering EDI professionals through coaching, mentoring and clear developmental pathways.
- Represent the EDI team at senior boards and committees, confidently navigating governance and institutional dynamics.
- Partner with senior leaders across UCL to co-create solutions, challenge barriers, and embed EDI accountability across functions.
- Design and deliver evidence-based interventions that go beyond training and communication to drive real behavioural shifts.
- Navigate and manage sensitive EDI issues, including belief conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and changes in legal or policy environments with clarity, empathy and institutional awareness.
- Provide strong operational leadership while contributing to the overall leadership of the EDI Department and its long-term impact.
About you
We are seeking a candidate who combines strategic vision with empathetic, values-led leadership and practical delivery expertise. You will bring:
- A proven ability to lead behaviour and culture change initiatives in large, complex organisations.
- Demonstrated success managing and developing high-performing, empowered teams.
- Expertise in stakeholder engagement, with experience working closely with senior leaders to shape institutional initiatives.
- Deep understanding of the challenges in federated governance structures and the ability to build alignment across diverse communities and departments.
- Experience managing multiple high-profile, sensitive EDI matters with political, legal and reputational implications.
- A long-term approach to change, grounded in behavioural science and systemic thinking.
- A strong appreciation of higher education and understanding of academic communities, even if your experience lies outside the sector.
If you’re a collaborative and courageous leader who wants to shape the future of equality, diversity and inclusion in higher education, we want to hear from you.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days).
- Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme.
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE).
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan.
- Relocation scheme for certain posts.
- On-site gym.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay.
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Head of EDI (Behaviour and Culture Change) in London employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
UCL is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises equality, diversity, and inclusion. With a commitment to employee growth through comprehensive development programmes and a generous benefits package, including 41 days of holiday and a defined benefit pension scheme, UCL empowers its staff to lead meaningful change in one of the world's most prestigious academic environments. Join us in shaping a transformative culture that reflects the diverse world we serve.
Contact Details:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of EDI (Behaviour and Culture Change) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with UCL's current EDI initiatives and their upcoming 5-year strategy. Understanding their specific goals and challenges will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your commitment to their vision during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles at UCL or other universities. This can provide you with insider insights into the culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when discussing your fit for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with behaviour and culture change in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led initiatives in complex organisations, as this will showcase your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your understanding of the unique challenges faced by federated institutions like UCL. Highlight your strategic thinking and ability to navigate diverse communities, as this will show that you are well-equipped to lead EDI efforts effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of EDI (Behaviour and Culture Change) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Thoroughly read the job description for the Head of EDI position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, particularly around behaviour and culture change initiatives.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in leading EDI initiatives, managing teams, and engaging with stakeholders. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to drive cultural change in complex organisations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for equality, diversity, and inclusion. Discuss how your values align with UCL's mission and provide concrete examples of your past successes in similar roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, emphasise your leadership style and how it fosters collaboration and accountability. Highlight any experience you have in coaching and mentoring teams, as this is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Understand the EDI Landscape
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in equality, diversity, and inclusion within higher education. Be prepared to discuss how these issues impact culture change and how you can address them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Demonstrate your values-led leadership approach by sharing examples of how you've empowered teams in the past. Highlight your experience in fostering collaboration and accountability within diverse groups.
✨Prepare for Sensitive Topics
Given the nature of the role, be ready to navigate discussions around sensitive EDI matters. Think about how you would handle belief conflicts or geopolitical tensions, and articulate your strategies with clarity and empathy.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Illustrate your expertise in stakeholder engagement by preparing examples of successful partnerships with senior leaders. Discuss how you co-created solutions and embedded EDI accountability across functions in previous roles.
