Secretariat Project Officer, IUCA(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Reading is internationally recognised for its leadership in climate science, sustainability, and environmental research. We are proud to host the Secretariat for the International Universities Climate Alliance (IUCA) — a global partnership of universities working together to shape climate solutions through research, collaboration, and engagement with governments, policymakers, and industry.

We are seeking a Secretariat Project Officer to play a central role in supporting the day-to-day operations, coordination, and delivery of IUCA’s global activities. Working closely with the Secretariat Director, you will help ensure that the Alliance operates smoothly, professionally, and with growing international impact.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys project coordination, stakeholder engagement, communications, and administration, and who is motivated by contributing to meaningful global action on climate change.

What You’ll Be Doing

As Secretariat Project Officer, you will:

• Support the planning, coordination, and delivery of IUCA projects and initiatives
• Act as a key point of contact for member universities, partners, and stakeholders worldwide
• Assist with the organisation of meetings, events, workshops, and briefings
• Manage and update IUCA’s online presence, including website content and digital communications
• Draft and coordinate reports, briefings, newsletters, and communications materials
• Maintain accurate records, databases, and administrative systems
• Support monitoring, reporting, and evaluation of Secretariat activities
• Contribute to strengthening IUCA’s global profile and reputation

Your work will directly support international collaboration aligned with UK and global climate priorities, including those outlined by the UK Government’s climate policy framework.

Who You’ll Work With

• The role reports to the IUCA Secretariat Director
• You will sit within the Strategic Engagement (Climate & Environmental Sustainability) team
• You will collaborate with colleagues across the University and with international partners

What We’re Looking For

Essential Skills and Experience

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with confidence engaging diverse stakeholders
• Excellent organisation and time-management abilities, managing multiple priorities effectively
• Proven experience in a busy administrative or coordination role
• Experience managing or contributing to an organisation’s website or digital platforms, including content accuracy and analytics
• A collaborative, proactive approach with strong attention to detail

Desirable Attributes

• Experience working in higher education, research, international organisations, or sustainability-focused environments
• An interest in climate change, environmental policy, or global collaboration

Visa and Right to Work Information

Applicants who may require a Skilled Worker visa are strongly encouraged to review eligibility criteria independently via the UK Government website:

Skilled Worker visa guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Due to the complexity of immigration rules, visa discussions will only take place with candidates invited to interview.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. We actively support:

• The Athena SWAN Charter (gender equality)
• The Race Equality Charter
• LGBT+ inclusion
• Disability inclusion as a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2)
• Flexible working, job-share, part-time arrangements, and secondments are welcomed and considered in line with operational needs.

Why Join the University of Reading?

• Be part of a globally respected institution shaping climate knowledge and policy
• Contribute to international collaboration aligned with UK climate leadership
• Work in a supportive, values-driven environment with strong professional development opportunities