At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the University of the Built Environment and shape its future direction.
- Company: A specialist university focused on built environment education with a global reach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Join a passionate community dedicated to innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in higher education and inspire the next generation of leaders.
- Qualifications: Executive-level leadership experience in higher education or related sectors.
Salary: £180,000–£220,000, with a bonus opportunity of up to 10% of basic salary
University of the Built Environment is seeking an exceptional Vice Chancellor to lead the next phase of its development and advance its ambition to be the centre of excellence for built environment education.
The is a specialist university, occupying a distinctive place in higher education.
Its predominantly online model makes high-quality education accessible to students in the UK and around the world.
Many students earn while they learn, including through apprenticeships, applying their education directly in the workplace.
Strong relationships with employers and professional bodies provide the foundation for extending the University’s reach, diversifying its provision and responding to evolving industry needs.
As the University’s principal academic and executive leader, the Vice Chancellor will lead the Executive Team and work closely with the Board of Trustees to shape and deliver a strategy for long-term success.
They will safeguard academic standards, strengthen student outcomes and experience, and encourage innovation in teaching, learning, research and knowledge exchange.
They will also ensure strong operational performance, regulatory compliance and financial sustainability.
A visible and inclusive leader, the Vice Chancellor will inspire colleagues across a flexible, geographically dispersed community and foster a culture shaped by passion, excellence, integrity and support.
Externally, they will be a compelling advocate, strengthening the University’s profile, influence and partnerships across industry, the professions, higher education and government.
We welcome applications from outstanding leaders in higher education, the built environment or adjacent sectors.
Candidates will bring executive-level leadership experience gained in a complex, regulated organisation; a record of delivering strategy, sustainable growth and organisational change; strong financial and governance acumen; and credibility with diverse stakeholders.
They will be student-focused, values-led and ambitious for the contribution that accessible and industry-focused education can make to a sustainable built environment.
The closing date is noon on Friday 18 September 2026.
We champion equality, diversity, and inclusion in our workforce.
Our aim is to attract, develop and retain a diverse workforce, therefore we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
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Vice Chancellor in Reading employer: University of the Built Environment
At the University of the Built Environment, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and work-life balance. With flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to professional growth, our team members are empowered to make meaningful contributions while enjoying a fulfilling career in a dynamic educational environment. Join us in shaping the future of technology services and be part of a community that values passion, integrity, excellence, and support.
Contact Details:
University of the Built Environment Recruitment Team
