Executive Operations Support(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Role

The University of Sussex is seeking a highly organised and proactive Executive Operations Support (EOS) professional to provide high-level administrative and operational support to two senior executives within the Vice-Chancellor’s Office (VCO).

This is a trusted and influential role at the heart of the University’s leadership function. You will play a key part in enabling Executives to operate effectively by managing priorities, coordinating complex schedules, and ensuring information flows smoothly across internal and external stakeholders.

Working closely with colleagues across the VCO and wider University, you will combine precision, discretion, and sound judgement to support executive decision-making and day-to-day operations. You will also contribute to the wider EOS team, providing cover and supporting shared administrative responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive executive and secretarial support to two senior VCO Executives
• Manage complex diaries, meetings, and competing priorities with confidence
• Advise on task prioritisation and offer practical strategies to support effective time management
• Prepare briefings, correspondence, and meeting materials to a high standard
• Liaise professionally with senior internal and external stakeholders
• Gather, collate, and analyse data to support executive planning and decision-making
• Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive and strategic information
• Support general team administration and provide cover during periods of absence

About You

You will be an experienced and dependable executive support professional who thrives in a fast-paced, senior-level environment. You will be highly organised, detail-focused, and calm under pressure, with the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.

You will bring:

• Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience
• Strong organisational and planning skills, with a proactive approach to work
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including briefing preparation
• Confidence using digital tools and office software to manage information effectively
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trusted working relationships
• A problem-solving mindset, delivering consistently high-quality outcomes
• Absolute discretion and integrity when dealing with confidential matters

Your professionalism, flexibility, and reliability will make you a valued and trusted partner to senior leaders and colleagues across the University.

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 provides executive support, strategic advice, and coordination for the University’s leadership and governance structures, including:

• University Leadership Forum (ULF)
• Academic Leadership Forum (ALF)
• Professional Services Leadership Team (PSLT)

The Office also plays a central role in executive governance, working alongside Senate and Council to ensure the University meets its statutory, regulatory, and strategic obligations.

Why Work at Sussex?

The University of Sussex is a leading, research-intensive international university set within a beautiful 150-acre campus next to the South Downs National Park. With excellent transport links—including a train station on campus—Sussex offers an inspiring and accessible place to work.

Staff benefit from a supportive working culture, flexible working options, professional development opportunities, and a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and wellbeing.

Visa and Right to Work Information

This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker route, subject to salary level and individual circumstances. The role is aligned with SOC code 4215 (Personal Assistants and Other Secretaries) and assessed at RQF Level 3–5.

Official UK Government guidance is available at:

• Skilled Worker visa overview
• Skilled Worker salary and tradeable points
• Right to work in the UK
• UK data protection and confidentiality guidance
• Working in the UK: employee rights
• All work for the University must be undertaken within the UK.

Additional Information

Closing Date: 22 February 2026 (3:59 PM)
Interview Date: Wednesday 11 March 2026

The University of Sussex is committed to creating an inclusive environment and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process are available on request.