At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead change programmes to enhance faculty operations and improve ways of working.
- Company: UCL, a leading multidisciplinary university in London with a global reputation.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, cycle to work, and on-site gym.
- Other info: Internal secondment role with hybrid working options until December 2027.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on faculty operations while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in delivering complex change programmes and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
UCL is London's leading multidisciplinary university, with more than 13,000 staff and 42,000 students from 150 countries. In addition to being a global leader in teaching, UCL is recognised as one of the most successful research institutions in the world. UCL spends over £600 million per year with third parties. Faculty Operations is a new Division, working across all 11 UCL Faculties to enable improvements in faculty operations and working practices, whilst preserving academic excellence and flexibility. The team raises the voice of the Faculties, helping to translate UCL’s strategic plan into practical operational delivery. By working in partnership with Departments, Faculties and Central Services we are aiming to bring more consistency to Faculty operations, whilst preserving disciplinary differences where that is appropriate.
About the role
The Head of Faculty Operations Change Programmes will act as a voice for Departments and Faculties into central professional services departments. Working closely with and on behalf of the Faculties and Departments, you will help to deliver against core elements of UCL's Strategic Plan, improving ways of working, making Faculties more similar in their operational practices and setting the standards for Faculty Operations across UCL. You will both lead and contribute to a number of key initiatives and projects, often acting as a business partner to Faculties and Central Services to ensure that programmes of work are delivered in a way that is sensitive to disciplinary needs and differences, whilst ensuring the goals of UCL’s strategic plan are met. Additionally, you will have responsibility for managing the delivery of key projects working in a way that empowers staff in the Faculties, responds to their needs and delivering the intended benefits of the change.
Please note, this is an internal secondment role until the end of December 2027 available to current UCL staff only. The role is offered on a hybrid working basis with a minimum of 2-3 days onsite at our Bidborough House office (subject to change).
About you
You will be a highly collaborative and strategically minded professional with significant experience of delivering complex change programmes across large and multifaceted organisations. Comfortable working across professional services, academic departments and senior stakeholder groups, you will bring the confidence and credibility to influence at all levels while building strong and trusted relationships.
You will have a proven ability to lead programmes that improve operational effectiveness, simplify processes and embed consistent ways of working, while remaining sensitive to the needs of different teams and disciplines. With excellent judgement and a solutions-focused approach, you will be able to navigate complexity, balance competing priorities and maintain momentum across multiple workstreams.
An exceptional communicator, you will be skilled at translating complex operational challenges into clear and practical solutions. You will be confident gathering requirements, facilitating collaboration and ensuring stakeholders remain informed, engaged and aligned throughout periods of change. You will also be adept at developing business cases, tracking programme benefits and managing budgets and reporting effectively.
We are looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, demonstrating resilience, persistence and a strong focus on delivering outcomes. You will be proactive in identifying opportunities for improvement and committed to creating positive working relationships across UCL.
What we offer
- 41 days’ holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase 5 additional days’ annual leave
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan, and immigration loan
- Relocation support for eligible posts
- On-site nursery and gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Staff Support Service (employee assistance programme)
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.
Head of Faculty Operations Change Programmes (Internal Secondment - Eligible UCL workers only) employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
UCL is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous benefits such as 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and a commitment to equality and diversity, UCL fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation. The Head of Faculty Operations Change Programmes role provides a unique opportunity to lead impactful change initiatives within a prestigious institution, all while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements.
Contact Details:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Faculty Operations Change Programmes (Internal Secondment - Eligible UCL workers only)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to colleagues and connections within UCL. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for change! When you get the chance, share your ideas on improving faculty operations. This will demonstrate your commitment and strategic thinking.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you've tackled complex change programmes before. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about the opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Faculty Operations Change Programmes (Internal Secondment - Eligible UCL workers only)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Faculty Operations Change Programmes role. Highlight your experience in delivering complex change programmes and how it aligns with UCL's strategic goals.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working closely with various departments, emphasise your ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've influenced stakeholders and navigated complex organisational structures.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your achievements and how they relate to the role. Remember, we want to see your exceptional communication skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at UCL!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Change Programmes
Familiarise yourself with UCL's strategic plan and the specific change programmes you’ll be involved in. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to improving operational effectiveness across faculties.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Skills
Highlight your ability to work with diverse teams and stakeholders. Prepare examples of past experiences where you successfully built relationships and influenced decision-making, especially in complex environments.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating complex operational challenges and solutions in a straightforward manner. During the interview, ensure you convey your ideas clearly, demonstrating your exceptional communication skills that are crucial for this role.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Be prepared to discuss how you approach strategic planning and execution. Share specific instances where you identified opportunities for improvement and led initiatives that resulted in positive outcomes, showcasing your hands-on approach and resilience.
