Chief Operating Officer

Cambridge Enterprise; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Cambridge seeks a Chief Operating Officer to lead the institution's operational strategy, financial stewardship and system improvements. The role reports to the Vice-Chancellor and drives a high-performing culture across administrative and support divisions.

The successful candidate will bring substantial leadership experience, influence change, and align colleagues behind a shared vision. The post highlights inclusivity, collaboration and ambitious service delivery.

Qualifications

• Substantial leadership experience in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.
• Ability to drive organisational performance and steward resources.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic development of the University’s systems, processes and finances.
• Oversee day-to-day operational management and efficiency across administrative divisions.

Job description

# Chief Operating OfficerThe University of Cambridge is one of the world's leading universities, renowned for the excellence of its teaching, research and innovation. Our distinctive collegiate University brings together a global community of scholars, students and professional staff who are committed to advancing knowledge, addressing the world's most pressing challenges, and making a positive impact on society. With more than 24,000 students and over 12,000 staff, Cambridge combines a tradition of academic excellence with a commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive and ambitious community.The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is an exciting and newly created role and will report directly to the Vice-Chancellor and serve as the University's senior executive leader responsible for the strategic development of the University's systems, processes and finances and day to day operational management of the institution. The COO ensures the strategy of the Academic University is successfully delivered by leading a high performing operational culture across all administrative and support divisions.The successful candidate will bring substantial leadership experience in complex, multi stakeholder environments and the ability to drive organisational performance, influence change, and steward resources effectively. An inclusive leadership style, strong collaborative skills, and the ability to inspire, motivate and align colleagues around a shared vision will be highly valued.For details of the appointment, including further information about the job description, person specification and how to apply, please visit https://PLusPortal.PerrettLaver.com quoting reference 8645.For Informal enquiries, please reach out to Thomas Cameron at [e-mail].**The closing date for applications is Monday 7th December 2026, at 9am GMT.**The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.Salary: Commensurate with the nature and seniority of the roleOnce an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.## Download further information* Chief Operating Officer - Further Information Document## Key information### Department/locationUnified Administrative Service### Salary### ReferenceYE51663### CategoryProfessorships and Directorships### Date published10 November 2026### Closing date7 December 2026