Head of Quality Assurance and Policy

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Reading is seeking an experienced leader to join our Centre for Quality Support and Development as Head of Quality Assurance and Policy. This is a collaborative leadership role, offering the opportunity to shape the future of academic quality and enhancement across the University.

As Head of Quality Assurance and Policy, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for QA, lead the QA and Policy team, and advise senior leadership on regulatory compliance and policy

Qualifications

• Experience leading HE quality assurance.
• In-depth knowledge of UK HE regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
• Ability to lead teams in a complex environment.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for academic quality assurance and enhancement.
• Lead and manage the Quality Assurance and Policy team.
• Advise senior leadership and influence policy at the highest level.
• Develop and implement academic regulations and procedures that are efficient, risk-based and compliant with external requirements.
• Oversee quality of collaborative provision and academic partnerships, both in the UK and internationally.

Skills

QA Leadership

Regulatory Knowledge

Stakeholder Influence

Communication Skills

Diversity & Inclusion

Job description

Closing date: 23:59 9th November 2026

Interviews date: to be confirmed - likely to be 20th November on Campus

Full time permanent role.

Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker Visa route and eligibility criteria, applicants requiring sponsorship are recommended to check their eligibility on the Home Office website. We cannot provide advice to candidates at the application stage and will only discuss visa routes with candidates who are invited to interview.

There may be costs associated with a visa application, including the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which are not paid for by the University of Reading and cannot be claimed back. For further information on potential costs please visit: Healthcare Surcharge Information GOV.UK

Are you ready to support strategic change in academic quality assurance and policy at a world-class institution?

The University of Reading is seeking an experienced individual to join our Centre for Quality Support and Development as Head of Quality Assurance and Policy. This is a collaborative leadership role, offering the opportunity to shape the future of academic quality and enhancement across the University.

About the Role

As Head of Quality Assurance and Policy, you will:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for academic quality assurance and enhancement.


• Lead and manage the Quality Assurance and Policy team.


• Act as the institutional expert on quality assurance, advising senior leadership and influencing policy at the highest level.


• Develop and implement academic regulations and procedures that are efficient, risk-based, and compliant with external requirements (e.g., OfS, Ofsted, PSRBs).


• Oversee quality of collaborative provision and academic partnerships, both in the UK and internationally.

You will work closely with senior academic and professional services colleagues, contributing to strategic decision-making and ensuring our quality systems are robust, efficient, and enhancement-focused.

About You

We are looking for a proactive and experienced leader with:

• Experience in leadership within HE quality assurance.


• In-depth knowledge of UK HE regulatory frameworks and quality standards.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.


• Proven ability to lead teams, influence stakeholders and bring people with them in a complex environment.


• A commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.

We recognise how AI can be helpful in preparing for presentations and interviews and in our day-to-day work, but your unique experiences, perspective, and personality are what will make you stand out. If you do use AI please be prepared to explain how you used it and what value it gave, remember that AI should not replace your own critical thinking and creativity.

Why Join Us?

At the University of Reading, we are committed to delivering an outstanding student experience and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This role offers the chance to make a real impact, working within a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

• We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Contact details for advert

Contact Name Anne-Marie Henderson

Contact Job Title: Director of Quality, Support and Development

Contact Email address [e-mail]

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality.

We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs