Faculty Director of Operations(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Organisation

UCL is a globally leading university, founded in 1826 and recognised for excellence in research and teaching. With a diverse international community of staff and students, UCL continues to advance knowledge and innovation across disciplines.

As part of its 2022–2027 Strategic Plan, UCL is implementing major organisational improvements, including a transformation programme to enhance professional services and streamline operations.

About UCL Laws

UCL Laws is one of the world’s foremost centres for legal education and research. It plays a significant role in shaping public policy, legal practice, and global legal scholarship. The Faculty is ranked among the top in the UK for research quality and offers leading undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Role Overview

The Faculty Director of Operations (DoO) is a senior leadership role and a key advisor to the Dean. The postholder will lead the Faculty’s professional services and ensure that operational systems effectively support academic excellence in teaching and research.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership for all professional services and operational teams within the Faculty.
Work closely with the Dean, Vice-Deans, and academic leaders to ensure financial sustainability and efficient operations.
Align resources, systems, and processes to support Faculty objectives.
Lead and deliver organisational change initiatives to improve services and performance.
Represent the Faculty in university-wide committees, boards, and strategic initiatives.
Contribute to cross-faculty and institutional projects as required.

Person Specification

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Significant leadership experience in managing operations within a complex organisation (higher education preferred).
  Strong strategic thinking, organisational, and change management skills.
  Proven ability to manage resources, budgets, and high-performing teams.
  Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
  A high level of education, ideally postgraduate or equivalent professional experience.

Visa and Eligibility Information

This role is open to international applicants and may qualify for UK visa sponsorship. Please review the following official guidance:

Skilled Worker visa
Global Talent visa
Work visas and immigration options
Prove your right to work
Immigration healthcare surcharge
National Insurance number
Employment rights and status
UK working hours and regulations

Application Process

Closing Date: 1 May 2026 (applications may close early if high volume is received)
Interview Dates: Expected during weeks commencing 25 May and 1 June 2026

Applicants should submit a personal statement clearly addressing how they meet the essential and desirable criteria outlined in the person specification.

For queries:

• Vacancy: Julie Smith (Interim Executive Director, Faculty Operations)
  Application support: Stacey Kirkham

Benefits

UCL provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
  Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
  Cycle to work scheme and travel loans
  On-site nursery and gym
  Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
  Employee assistance programme
  Discounted private medical insurance

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

UCL is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Applications are encouraged from individuals from underrepresented groups, including ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and LGBTQI+ communities.