Executive Director of Faculty Operations(UK Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Opportunity
University College London is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking leader to take on the role of Executive Director of Faculty Operations. This is a senior, institution-wide position that plays a central role in shaping how faculty-level operations are delivered across one of the world’s leading universities.
Working closely with the Vice-President (Operations) and senior academic leadership, you will guide the strategic direction of professional services, ensuring they are efficient, aligned, and responsive to the evolving needs of teaching, research, and student experience.
This role contributes to broader UK higher education priorities around governance, efficiency, and innovation
Role Overview
As Executive Director, you will provide leadership across faculty operations, creating a cohesive and high-performing professional services environment. You will lead a network of Faculty Directors of Operations and act as a key voice in institutional decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic oversight of faculty operations, ensuring consistency and efficiency across services
Lead, mentor, and develop Faculty Directors of Operations, building a collaborative leadership community
Partner with senior academic and administrative leaders to deliver transformation and operational excellence
Drive digital innovation, process simplification, and continuous improvement
Establish performance frameworks, ensuring accountability and transparency
Oversee planning, governance, and risk management processes
Promote a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and shared professional identity
Represent professional services at senior institutional forums
This work aligns with UK best practice in organisational governance and public sector leadership
About You
You will be an accomplished senior leader with a proven ability to operate effectively in complex, large-scale organisations.
Essential experience and attributes:
- Significant leadership experience in a complex and fast-paced environment
Demonstrated success in leading organisational change and delivering measurable outcomes
Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at executive level
Experience in programme and project management
Excellent communication, analytical, and organisational skills
Ability to manage ambiguity and competing priorities
Commitment to inclusive, values-driven leadership
Desirable:
Understanding of the higher education sector and its operational challenges
leadership and management standards in the UK workforce
Why Join UCL?
This is a rare opportunity to shape the operational future of a globally recognised university. You will work alongside leading academics and professional services teams in a stimulating and collaborative environment.
Benefits include:
- 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
Generous pension scheme (CARE)
Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
Relocation and immigration support (where applicable)
On-site facilities including nursery and gym
Enhanced family leave policies
Employee wellbeing support services
Employment rights and workplace protections are governed by UK legislation
Visa and Eligibility
This role is eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker or Global Talent visa routes, making it accessible to international candidates.
All work must be undertaken within the UK.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
University College London is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Applications are particularly encouraged from underrepresented groups in senior roles.
This aligns with the UK’s Equality Act framework
Application Process
Submit your application before 12 April 2026 (23:59 GMT)
Interviews are scheduled for 27 May 2026
For informal queries, contact the recruitment team
Early applications are encouraged, as the role may close once sufficient applications are received.
