At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage operations for a top psychology division at UCL.
- Company: Join UCL, a global leader in psychology and language sciences.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and more perks.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we value diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic academic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing operations in complex organisations required.
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 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
✨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 us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching UCL's recent projects and initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a mate. We can nail our responses and feel more confident when discussing our leadership and operational experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace PALS Head of Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Operations role. Highlight your experience in leading operations within complex organisations, especially in higher education, to show us you’re the right fit.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see how you've motivated teams and managed change in your previous roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership style and how it aligns with our ambitious goals at PaLS.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point about your skills and experiences that relate to the job description.
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
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 will show that you’re genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As the Head of Operations, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or managed complex projects. Highlight your change-management skills and how you've motivated others.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Be ready to discuss how your role fits into the broader goals of PaLS and UCL. Think about strategic initiatives you could implement to enhance operations and support the division’s academic and research objectives.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the division. Inquire about their current challenges, future plans, or how they measure success in the professional services team. This shows your engagement and strategic thinking.
