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- Tasks: Lead the University of South Wales, inspiring 23,000 students and 2,000 staff across three campuses.
- Company: Join a dynamic institution with over 180 years of heritage, committed to societal impact and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture, opportunities for innovation, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in higher education, shaping futures and driving positive change.
- Qualifications: Bring significant senior leadership experience and a deep understanding of the higher education landscape.
- Other info: We actively encourage applications from under-represented groups and offer guaranteed interviews for disabled candidates.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Driven by a profound commitment to widening access, real-world learning, and positive societal impact, the University of South Wales is seeking our next Vice-Chancellor who will champion our core values of Professional, Responsive, Creative, Inspiring, and Collaborative. Originating more than 180 years ago, the University of South Wales is a dynamic and inclusive institution that is proud of its heritage, deeply connected to the region, and ambitious for the future.
This is a pivotal moment in the University’s journey. The University of South Wales Group, comprising of the University of South Wales, Merthyr Tydfil College and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, plays a vital civic, economic, and cultural role across Wales and beyond. During a period of challenge for the Higher Education sector more broadly, we are embarking on an ambitious period of renewal - redefining our academic delivery and student offer, strengthening our research culture, and shaping a university fit for a new era of higher education.
Our next Vice-Chancellor will be a bold and imaginative leader, with the capacity to inspire and support our community of 23,000 students and nearly 2,000 staff based across our three campuses in Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd and internationally. Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Governors, the Vice-Chancellor will build on strong foundations working collaboratively across the University to drive innovation and articulate a compelling case for our mission, values and contribution. At the same time, you will ensure strong institutional performance maintaining financial sustainability, enhancing organisational effectiveness, and nurturing a culture of openness, respect, and shared ambition.
Bringing significant senior leadership experience and a deep understanding of higher education, you will champion our legacy and confidently take us into the next chapter whilst remaining firmly rooted in our mission to transform lives and our world for the better. This is a role that demands presence, agility, and authenticity. The Vice-Chancellor will be a powerful advocate for the University championing its role in Welsh civic life, influencing national debate, and ensuring that USW remains visible, relevant, and values-led.
You will also be a collaborative internal leader, empowering colleagues, investing in the leadership pipeline, and enabling all parts of the University community to thrive. USW is a university with heart, purpose, and reach. It is a place where people work together to solve real problems, remove barriers to opportunity, and shape a more inclusive future. If you share that ethos and can match our ambition, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Our commitment to supporting talented people from all backgrounds has been recognised by Athena SWAN, Stonewall Diversity Champion, and Disability Confident. Here at the University of South Wales we are challenging ourselves to think and act differently. As such, we are enhancing and developing our equality, diversity and inclusion learning opportunities across the institution. Ensuring our commitment to employing a diverse workforce is reflective of our growing diverse student population. Moving us from words to actions in our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive environment for all. Colleagues are welcomed to be their authentic selves and every person is treated with dignity and respect. To enable our student population to see themselves within our workforce we actively encourage applicants from under-represented groups and differing socio-economic backgrounds.
As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee that all disabled candidates who meet all the key criteria for the job vacancy they are applying for are offered an interview.
The closing date for applications is 23:59 (BST) on Sunday 20th July 2025.
Vice-Chancellor employer: University of South Wales
Contact Detail:
University of South Wales Recruiting Team
Eljoh.Balajadia@perrettlaver.com
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice-Chancellor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the core values of the University of South Wales. As a candidate for Vice-Chancellor, you should be able to articulate how your leadership style aligns with their commitment to being Professional, Responsive, Creative, Inspiring, and Collaborative.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends and challenges in higher education, particularly those affecting Wales. Demonstrating your awareness of these issues during discussions can position you as a forward-thinking leader who is ready to tackle the university's ambitious renewal plans.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with key stakeholders within the higher education sector in Wales. Building relationships with local leaders and organisations can enhance your visibility and show your commitment to the university's role in civic life.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your vision for enhancing equality, diversity, and inclusion within the university. Given their focus on creating an equitable environment, showcasing your strategies for fostering a diverse workforce will resonate well with the selection committee.
We think you need these skills to ace Vice-Chancellor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Vice-Chancellor position. Reflect on how your experience aligns with the core values of the University of South Wales.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your enthusiasm for the role but also highlight your leadership experience and vision for the university. Make sure to connect your past achievements with the university's mission and values.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is tailored specifically for this role. Emphasise your senior leadership experience in higher education, your understanding of the sector, and any relevant accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to drive innovation and collaboration.
Showcase Your Commitment to Diversity: Given the university's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, include examples of how you have championed these values in your previous roles. This will demonstrate your alignment with the university's ethos and your capability to foster an inclusive environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of South Wales
✨Understand the University’s Values
Familiarise yourself with the core values of the University of South Wales: Professional, Responsive, Creative, Inspiring, and Collaborative. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style aligns with these values and how you can embody them in your role as Vice-Chancellor.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your significant senior leadership experience in higher education. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to inspire and support a diverse community, drive innovation, and maintain financial sustainability within an institution.
✨Articulate Your Vision for the Future
Be ready to share your vision for the future of the University, especially in terms of redefining academic delivery and enhancing research culture. Discuss how you plan to navigate challenges in the higher education sector while ensuring the institution remains relevant and values-led.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
Given the University’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, be prepared to discuss your approach to fostering an inclusive environment. Share specific strategies you would implement to ensure that all members of the university community feel valued and empowered.