At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives to enhance research and enterprise performance at the University.
- Company: Join the University of Aberdeen, a hub for innovation and research excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a diverse working environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and influence within a collaborative academic community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of research and culture in a dynamic university setting.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and significant senior leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 69488 - 78188 £ per year.
The University of Aberdeen is seeking an exceptional strategic leader to join the Directorate of Research, Innovation & Enterprise at an exciting point in the University's development. The Associate Director role will provide strategic leadership for the Directorate’s Strategy, Performance & Culture portfolio, leading the development of the people, systems, culture and institutional capability that underpin research and enterprise success.
Working across the University with academic and professional services colleagues, the postholder will strengthen organisational capability, enhance research performance and preparation for REF 2029, and drive strategic change in support of the University's research and enterprise ambitions under Aberdeen 2040.
This is an influential leadership role, responsible for developing organisational capability, leading strategic change and ensuring that institutional priorities are translated into coordinated action across the University. The successful candidate will build strong partnerships across academic and professional services communities and play a key role in enhancing research and enterprise performance.
You will be educated to degree level and have significant senior leadership experience within a university or other research, innovation and enterprise environment, together with a deep understanding of the research and enterprise landscape. You will have a proven track record of leading culture change, developing people and organisational capability, influencing senior stakeholders and delivering strategic priorities in complex organisations.
Salary will be at the appropriate point on Grade 9, 69,488 - 78,188 per annum with placement according to qualifications and experience.
Informal enquiries should be made to Lucy Leiper, Director of Research, Innovation and Enterprise, e-mail: l.leiper@abdn.ac.uk
Prior to employment, the successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK. This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route under the UKVI immigration rules but is dependent on factors specific to the candidate and if tradeable points can be used under the rules.
Information on other visa options is available at . Please do not hesitate to contact Natalie Reid, Senior HR Partner (e-mail: n.reid@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.
The closing date for the receipt of applications is 26 August 2026. The Directorate of Research, Innovation and Enterprise embraces a diverse working environment and recognises the many benefits this can bring. Applications from individuals from across all of the equality protected characteristics are encouraged.
Associate Director - Strategy, Performance & Culture in Huntly employer: University Of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for the Performance Rowing Coach role. With a strong focus on athlete development and a commitment to fostering a high-performance culture, employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with passionate colleagues. Located in the vibrant city of Aberdeen, the university provides a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in the world of sports while enjoying a rich community atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - Strategy, Performance & Culture in Huntly
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We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - Strategy, Performance & Culture in Huntly
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Leadership Skills:In the corporate leadership and management field, it's essential to highlight your leadership experience. Use your CV to flesh out examples of how you've led teams to success or managed significant projects. We want to see specific instances where your actions made a tangible difference in your previous roles!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers talk, especially in management! When detailing your achievements in your CV or cover letter, don’t just say you improved team performance. Instead, say you boosted productivity by 30% over six months through effective strategy implementation. This makes your application pop and shows us what you can bring to University Of Aberdeen.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to narrate your professional journey. We’re looking for motivation and a clear understanding of what corporate leadership means to you. Dive into your aspirations and how they align with the values and vision of University Of Aberdeen. Make it personal – we want to get to know you!
Tailor Your CV for Management Roles:Ensure your CV reflects the management skills that are essential for this role. Focus on competencies like strategic planning, team building, and problem-solving. Use a clean layout, and don’t forget to align your experiences with those keywords mentioned in the job listing. This will help you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Aberdeen
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
You’ll want to thoroughly convey your unique approach to leadership. During the interview with University Of Aberdeen, be ready to share real-life examples of how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. Think about specific achievements that illustrate your strategic thinking and your ability to drive results.
✨Brush Up on Management Theories
Expect some technical questions related to management theories and practices. Brush up on concepts like transformational leadership, servant leadership, or situational leadership. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply these theories to the role at University Of Aberdeen, especially in the specific context of the challenges they’re currently facing.
✨Craft Your Vision for the Company
Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for University Of Aberdeen could really set you apart. Consider potential strategies for growth and how you would lead teams towards achieving them. This shows not just enthusiasm, but also strategic foresight that they’ll likely be looking for in a candidate.
✨Emphasise Team Dynamics and Culture
In corporate leadership, team dynamics and organisational culture are everything. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered a positive work environment in previous roles. Bring up examples of how you've managed diverse teams effectively—this will resonate well at University Of Aberdeen as they’re likely seeking a candidate who can enhance their workplace culture.
