Head of support services

University of Sussex Students' Union; Brighton; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Sussex Students’ Union is seeking a dynamic Head of Support Services to lead our HR, Finance and Communications functions, aligning them with our values and strategic objectives. You will shape operations, drive innovation, ensure governance and compliance, and foster a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion across all support services.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will advise the CEO and Trustees, manage budgeting and reporting, and help the Union thrive on campus across Sussex

Qualifications

• Experience leading HR, Finance and Communications within a complex, values‑driven organisation.
• Proven ability to shape strategy and deliver high‑quality, inclusive support services.
• Strong governance, risk management and regulatory compliance knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead HR, Finance and Communications to deliver high‑quality, efficient services.
• Advise the CEO and Trustees on financial planning, reporting and governance.
• Embed equity, diversity and inclusion across all support services and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Strategic leadership

HR management

Finance management

Governance & compliance

Diversity & inclusion

Job description

Are you an experienced leader of corporate services ready to make a real difference in a values‑led, student‑driven organisation?

Sussex Students’ Union is looking for a dynamic and strategic Head of Support Services to lead our Human Resources, Finance and Communications functions — ensuring they deliver high‑quality, inclusive, and forward‑thinking support that enables the Union to thrive.

As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, you will shape the future of our organisation by aligning support services with our strategic objectives, values, and commitment to students. You will lead and inspire these functions, drive innovation and creativity, ensure strong governance and compliance, and embed equity, diversity and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. This high‑impact strategic leadership role influences organisational culture, supports decision‑making at the highest level, and helps us continuously improve how we serve our students.

You will lead and develop HR, Finance and Communications functions to deliver high‑quality, efficient services, driving organisational development, innovation and continuous improvement. You will provide expert advice and guidance to the CEO, Trustees and Boards, oversee financial management including budgeting, planning, monitoring and reporting, and ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory and health & safety requirements. You will embed equity, diversity and inclusion across all support services, lead managers to build a high‑performing, values‑driven culture, and protect and enhance the Union’s reputation through effective corporate services.

ABOUT US

We are looking for skilled, friendly and highly motivated people who share our values. In a vibrant environment and a supportive workplace, the Students’ Union is a dynamic, student‑led organisation that operates all over the Sussex campus and supports students at the University of Sussex and Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

KEY INFORMATION

Job Title: Head of Support Services

Responsible to: Chief Executive

Rate of pay: Grade 8

Contract: Permanent

Hours of work: 36.5 hours per week (including some evenings and weekends)

Applicants: Open to internal and external applicants Please note that applications from full‑time students will not be considered for full‑time positions, as it exceeds the recommended hours of work for individuals in higher education. This applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

• External applicants: 10 August 2026 at 23:59
• Interviews – at risk staff: 5th August 2026
• Interviews – external applicants: 18th August 2026
• Start Date: As soon as possible

COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION

We are committed to maintaining a diverse workforce because we value decision makers and collaborators with varied lived experiences and backgrounds that reflect the diverse student community. We welcome applications from everyone, and we strongly encourage application from people with an ethnic minority or Chinese background, people with a disability, people with dependents, and people who identify as LGBTQ+.

We conduct anonymous shortlisting and all interview panels receive unconscious bias training to support our inclusivity. Flexible working is considered for those with care commitments. We also offer support through a BAME Staff Network.

STAFF AND APPLICANTS WITH LONG TERM CONDITIONS

The Students’ Union aims to implement reasonable adjustments for all staff and applicants with disabilities, creating a culture of cooperation and proactive support for equitable access to jobs.

We offer professional health services and an employee assistance programme, and encourage staff to access learning and development opportunities.

Working on Sussex Campus and for the Students’ Union offers several benefits: staff receive one day off each fortnight as part of a nine‑day‑fortnight working trial, plus enhanced time off which normally amounts to an extra 6 days leave in addition to 20 days of annual leave per year, plus bank holidays. We also allocate funding for staff socials, learning and development opportunities for all roles.

And we would love to receive your application and get to know you!