At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage operations for a top-tier psychology division at UCL.
- Company: Join UCL, a global leader in psychology and language sciences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days of holiday, flexible working, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a vibrant workplace committed to equality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic academic community focused on innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in complex organisations, preferably in higher education.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
The UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences (PaLS) is one of the largest and most distinguished academic groupings in psychology and related disciplines in the UK. PaLS brings together students, researchers, academics, and professional services staff committed to making UCL a global leader in the scientific study and teaching of mind, behaviour, and language. It is an ambitious, high‐performing, and collegial community comprising approximately 120 academic staff, 180 research staff, 100 professional services staff, and over 2,300 students.
UCL Psychology is consistently ranked among the leading departments internationally, for example 5th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2026, 4th in the Guardian University Guide 2026, and 6th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. Research and teaching in PaLS encompass almost all aspects of clinical psychology, behavioural and cognitive neuroscience, language, sensory systems, learning and memory, therapeutic interventions, decision‐making, and social cognition, and apply these areas of expertise to major societal challenges including climate change, mental health, inequality, and social conflict.
About the role: The Head of Operations is the senior professional services lead within PaLS and provides strategic and operational leadership for the Division's professional services function. The postholder works in close partnership with the Director of the Division and the Heads of Research Department to ensure that PaLS operates effectively, efficiently, and in alignment with Faculty and UCL strategy.
The role combines executive responsibility for the professional services team and business partners infrastructure of a large and complex academic division with strategic leadership across education, research support, people, finance, operations, compliance, sustainability, and risk. The postholder will lead and support professional services teams and business partners delivering Human Resources, Finance, Space and Laboratory Operations, Health and Safety, Research Support, Education and Student Experience, Web Development and Communications, Sustainability, EDI, and Enterprise. The postholder will also manage the Executive Officers supporting the Division's seven Research Departments.
The Head of Operations works closely with the Faculty Director of Operations and acts as the principal operational adviser to the Director and plays a central role in ensuring that PaLS can deliver its ambitious academic, research, and educational objectives.
About you: The ideal candidate will bring substantial experience of leading and managing business operations in a large and complex organisation, ideally within higher education or a similarly demanding environment. They will demonstrate strong leadership, organisational, and change‐management skills; the ability to prioritise effectively in the face of competing demands; and a proven track record of strategic, financial, and resource management. They will also have experience of motivating and supporting high‐performing teams to deliver excellent outcomes, together with a strong educational background and relevant professional experience.
What we offer: 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, immigration loan, relocation scheme for certain posts, on‐site nursery, on‐site gym, enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay, employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service, discounted medical insurance.
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. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.
PALS Head of Operations in London employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences (PaLS) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous benefits such as 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for hybrid working, PaLS fosters a supportive environment where staff can thrive while contributing to groundbreaking research and education in psychology and language sciences.
Contact Detail:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PALS Head of Operations in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at UCL, especially in the PaLS division. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching UCL's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you're not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t sound too rehearsed!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the team you'll be joining.
We think you need these skills to ace PALS Head of Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Operations. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious goals at PaLS!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about strategic leadership, so don’t hold back! Share examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed operations in complex environments. We love a good success story!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your ideas and experiences. We appreciate clarity as much as we appreciate creativity!
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 ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences. Familiarise yourself with their research areas, recent achievements, and how they align with your experience. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your background to their goals.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As the Head of Operations, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past where you've successfully led teams or managed complex projects. Highlight your change-management skills and how you've motivated teams to achieve excellent outcomes.
✨Be Ready for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about strategic planning and operational efficiency. Think about how you would approach aligning PaLS operations with UCL's broader strategy. Be prepared to discuss financial management and resource allocation, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
UCL values diversity and inclusion, so be ready to discuss how you’ve promoted these principles in your previous roles. Share specific initiatives or strategies you've implemented that support equality and foster a diverse workplace culture.
