Overview

Job role: University SecretaryContract: 6-month fixed termSalary: £75,000-£85,000 pro rataLocation: Greater London (onsite during induction; hybrid thereafter)Closing Date: 17 September 2025Interview Date: 29 September 2025A prestigious UK university, based on 600 acres of land, accessible from London, around 20-25 minutes by train to London King’s Cross or Moorgate station. The university has recently been granted full university status by Royal Charter and is seeking an experienced and proactive University Secretary to join on an interim basis during a key period of development.Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the University Secretary will lead and shape the institution’s governance, risk, and compliance frameworks, supporting the executive and the University Council. This is a leadership role managing a team of five across governance, data protection, and committee support.

Key Responsibilities

Act as principal adviser to the COO, Council, and Executive on governance, risk, and compliance

Lead and develop the governance function, including managing five staff (Governance Officers, DPO, Committee Admins)

Lead on institutional risk management processes

Oversee the administration of the University Council and formal committees

Promote best practice in line with sector standards, OfS requirements, and the Nolan Principles

Ideal candidates

Significant senior-level experience working within UK higher education, with a deep understanding of HE governance principles and best practice, including the Nolan Principles

A strong grasp of the legal, constitutional, policy, and regulatory environment in which UK universities operate, including governance trends and developments

Experience acting as a Data Protection Officer, or holding equivalent responsibility for data protection and information compliance in a UK context

Proven track record of leading on risk management processes at a senior level

Substantial experience of committee administration, including writing and presenting papers to formal governance bodies

Strong leadership and management experience, including leading professional admin teams within an HE setting

What’s On Offer

30 days annual leave, plus 3 concessionary days and bank holidays

Competitive pension scheme

Access to on-site café, restaurant, and fitness and wellbeing centre (gym, classes, climbing wall)

Free in-house and externally funded CPD

Cycle to work scheme

Free shuttle service from nearby stations

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

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