Executive Operations Support(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Opportunity

This is a key operational role at the centre 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 efficiently.

You will act as a trusted partner, providing high-quality executive and administrative support while navigating complex schedules, competing priorities, and sensitive information. Your contribution will directly enable effective leadership, informed decision-making, and the smooth day-to-day running of executive activity.

Alongside your individual responsibilities, you will be part of a collaborative EOS team, supporting shared processes and providing cover during periods of absence to ensure continuity.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing diaries, meetings, and schedules for senior Executives
• Advising on task prioritisation and effective time management
• Providing professional secretarial and administrative support as required
• Preparing briefings, correspondence, and documentation to a high standard
• Liaising with internal and external stakeholders across the University
• Collecting, reviewing, and analysing information to support decision-making
• Supporting general EOS team administration and shared housekeeping tasks
• Handling confidential and sensitive matters with discretion and care

About You

You will bring either degree-level education or equivalent relevant professional experience, alongside a proactive and highly organised approach to executive support.

You will be:

• Detail-oriented, reliable, and confident managing multiple priorities
• Flexible and calm when responding to changing demands
• An excellent communicator, both written and verbal
• Skilled at producing clear, accurate briefings and correspondence
• Comfortable using a range of digital tools and administrative systems
• Approachable, professional, and able to build positive working relationships
• Trusted to work with confidential and strategically sensitive information
• Your judgement, discretion, and problem-solving skills will make you a valued and dependable support 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 Office:

• Provides day-to-day executive and operational support
• Facilitates key leadership forums, including the University Leadership Forum (ULF), Academic Leadership Forum (ALF), and Professional Services Leadership Team (PSLT)
• Oversees executive governance in alignment with the University’s Council and Senate
• Supports the delivery of the University’s strategic and operational priorities
• Together, these governance structures ensure the University meets its statutory responsibilities and delivers its long-term vision.

Why Join the University of Sussex?

Set within 150 acres of parkland beside the South Downs, the University of Sussex offers a unique and welcoming working environment.

You’ll benefit from:

• Excellent transport links, including Falmer Station just five minutes from campus
• On-campus bus routes and dedicated cycling paths
• A cycle-to-work scheme and wellbeing initiatives
• A diverse, inclusive, and international community
• Competitive pay, pension, and benefits
• At Sussex, our people are central to our success — and we are committed to supporting staff to thrive.

Visa & Right to Work Information

All work for the University must be undertaken in the UK.
This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to Home Office requirements.

• SOC Code: 4215 – Personal Assistants and other secretaries
• Going Rate: £33,400
• Eligibility will depend on salary offered, tradeable points, and any existing Skilled Worker sponsorship held before 22 July 2025.

Helpful UK Government guidance:

• Skilled Worker visa overview
• Salary thresholds & tradeable points
• Eligible occupation codes
• Right to work checks
• Employment rights and status

Key Dates & Contact Information

• Closing Date: 22 February 2026 (3:59 PM)
• Interview Date: Wednesday, 11 March 2026
• Expected Start Date: As soon as possible