Chief Operating Officer (042318)

The University of Surrey is one of the UK’s leading universities, consistently amongst the top 20 in national league tables and with ambitions to be one of the world’s best universities.

Surrey seeks answers to the world’s most pressing questions, pioneering projects that span the University, the country and the globe, and accelerating ideas into action in order to unearth astounding discoveries. Through excellent research, innovative teaching, professional training and business collaborations, the University shares this knowledge, and has become widely recognised for its connections with industry and the quality of its student experience. With over 15,000 students from 120 countries, the University employs over 3,000 staff and has an alumni network of 95,000-plus members. Furthermore, it hosts 140 companies at the Surrey Research Park, and the Surrey Sports Park offers 44 sports clubs and hosts a wide range of prestigious sporting events.

The University is now seeking to appoint an inspirational leader to the role of Chief Operating Officer. With responsibility for the efficient and effective running of professional services activities, the post holder is a key adviser to the President and Vice-Chancellor on all aspects of institutional management, strategy and governance. Overseeing a diverse remit and managing a large team, the COO ensures that the services are positioned to effectively support the development and delivery of the institutional strategy.

Successful candidates will therefore be able to evidence substantial breadth of experience in a large and complex organisation, with the ability to manage physical and financial resources, and an ability to inspire, lead, and direct senior, highly-qualified staff. They will be strategic with the ability to work with a very high degree of independent professional autonomy, and will possess excellent judgement, creative thinking skills, resilience, and a flexible, forward thinking and innovative approach.

The University of Surrey will be supported in this appointment by executive search firm, Perrett Laver. For further details, including the job description, person specification and information on how to apply, please see https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies quoting reference 3631. The closing date is Monday 2nd July 2018.

Closing Date: 02 Jul 2018
Category: Senior Staff (Non-academic)