Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor for Education and Students(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex is seeking an experienced senior academic to take on the role of Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students.

This position supports the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students) in shaping and delivering the University’s strategic priorities relating to teaching, learning, and the overall student experience—from admission through to graduation and beyond.

You will work closely with senior leadership, including the Vice-Chancellor, the Director of Student Experience, and academic leaders across all faculties, contributing directly to institutional decision-making and transformation.

This is a senior leadership role offered on a 50% time commitment basis, with the expectation that the successful candidate will return to their substantive academic post upon completion of the appointment.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Support leadership and delivery of the University’s education and student experience strategy
  Work with senior leaders to enhance academic quality and student outcomes
  Lead or contribute to institution-wide transformation projects
  Oversee initiatives that improve teaching, learning, and student support systems
  Ensure compliance with academic quality frameworks and regulatory standards
  Contribute to governance discussions and strategic planning
  Champion innovation in education delivery and student engagement
  Represent the student experience portfolio in institutional decision-making

About You

You will be an experienced academic leader with a strong track record in improving education and student outcomes within a higher education environment.

Essential Experience

• Significant leadership experience in academic or institutional roles
  Demonstrated success in improving student experience and academic quality
  Experience leading large-scale or cross-university projects
  Strong understanding of UK higher education regulation and quality frameworks
  Ability to work collaboratively across faculties and professional services

Key Attributes

• Strategic thinking and institutional leadership capability
  Creativity and innovation in enhancing teaching and learning
  Strong communication and influencing skills at senior level
  Deep understanding of academic governance and quality assurance
  Commitment to inclusive education and student success

About the Division

The role sits within the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, which supports the University’s most senior leaders in delivering institutional strategy and governance.

The office plays a central role in:

• Supporting executive leadership and decision-making
  Coordinating university-wide governance structures
  Ensuring alignment between academic and operational priorities
  Supporting strategic planning and regulatory compliance

It works closely with University leadership forums and governance bodies to ensure effective institutional management and delivery of long-term goals.

Why Join Sussex

• Opportunity to shape the future of education at a leading UK university
  High-level strategic leadership role with institutional impact
  Collaborative environment working with senior academic leaders
  Strong commitment to innovation in teaching and student experience
  Inclusive, research-led university culture

Important Information

• This role is internal-only and open to current academic staff
  Must be employed by University of Sussex
  Work must be carried out within the UK
  Appointment is fixed-term for 3 years

Useful UK Government Resources

• Higher Education Regulatory Framework (OfS)
  UK Visas and Immigration
  Skilled Worker Visa Guidance
  Public Sector Leadership & Governance
  Employment Rights and Contracts