Executive Operations Support(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Opportunity
This is a pivotal role at the heart of the University’s senior leadership. As Executive Operations Support (EOS), you will work closely with two senior Executives within the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, ensuring their work is organised, prioritised, and delivered with accuracy and discretion.
You will act as a trusted operational partner — managing complex diaries, coordinating meetings, advising on priorities, and providing high-quality administrative and secretarial support. Your contribution will directly support effective decision-making, smooth executive operations, and the delivery of University-wide objectives.
Alongside your core responsibilities, you will be part of a collaborative EOS team, contributing to shared administrative processes and providing cover during periods of absence to maintain continuity of service.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Managing demanding diaries, meetings, and schedules for senior Executives
- Advising on workload prioritisation and time management strategies
- Preparing briefings, correspondence, and documentation to a high standard
- Coordinating with colleagues across the University and external partners
- Gathering, analysing, and presenting information to support executive decisions
- Handling sensitive and confidential matters with professionalism and care
- Supporting wider EOS team activities and contributing to continuous improvement
About You
You’ll bring either a degree-level qualification or substantial relevant professional experience in executive or senior administrative support.
You will be:
- Highly organised, proactive, and comfortable managing competing priorities
- Adaptable and calm when responding to change or unexpected challenges
- A clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal
- Detail-focused, reliable, and committed to delivering high-quality outcomes
- Technically confident, with strong digital and administrative skills
- A collaborative professional who builds positive working relationships
- Trusted to work with confidential, sensitive, and strategic information
- Your judgement, discretion, and problem-solving ability will make you a valued partner to senior leaders.
About the Vice-Chancellor’s Office
The Vice-Chancellor’s Office (VCO) supports the University’s most senior academic and professional leaders, including the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellors, and Chief Operating Officer.
The VCO plays a central role in:
- Providing executive and operational support
- Enabling effective leadership forums and governance structures
- Supporting strategic planning and institutional decision-making
- Ensuring compliance with academic, corporate, and statutory governance frameworks
The Office works closely with the University’s governing bodies — including Council and Senate — to help deliver the University’s long-term strategy and regulatory obligations.
Why Join the University of Sussex?
Set within 150 acres of parkland at the edge of the South Downs, the University of Sussex offers a supportive, inclusive, and intellectually vibrant working environment.
You’ll benefit from:
- Excellent transport links, including Falmer Station just minutes from campus
- Cycle-to-work schemes and dedicated cycling routes
- A strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Competitive rewards, benefits, and professional development opportunities
- Being part of a respected, research-led international university community
Visa Sponsorship & Right to Work
- This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to meeting UK Home Office requirements.
- SOC Code: 4215 – Personal Assistants and other secretaries
- Going Rate: £33,400
- Eligibility depends on salary offered, tradeable points, and existing sponsorship status.
Helpful UK Government guidance:
- Skilled Worker visa overview
- Salary thresholds and tradeable points
- Occupation codes
- Right to work checks
- UK employment rights
Key Dates & Further Information
- Closing Date: 22 February 2026 (3:59 PM)
- Expected Interview Date: Wednesday, 11 March 2026
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible
- For informal enquiries, please contact Mandy Moore.
