RCDS Deputy Head, Global Strategy Programme

Serve; Greater London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK Defence Organization is seeking a Deputy Head Global Strategy Programme. The role involves managing academic provisions, ensuring compliance, and contributing to the design and delivery of the Global Strategy Programme. Key responsibilities include overseeing risks, engaging with stakeholders, and representing the organization externally. Ideal candidates will have experience in governance and strong communication skills. This position offers opportunities for innovation in educational delivery.

Qualifications

• Experience in academic provision and governance.
• Ability to manage risks associated with programme delivery.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Act as focal point for Command & Staff Academic Provision.
• Monitor risks and ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
• Engage with governance and manage feedback processes.
• Contribute to curriculum reviews and improvements.
• Provide continuity of programme delivery during staff shortages.
• Represent RCDS externally as directed.

Job description

Position Overview

Subject to formal establishment a vacancy will arise for a OF4 to serve as Deputy Head Global Strategy Programme a FTRS (HC) Terms and Conditions of Service (TCoS) with an initial proposed start date of 01 Feb 2026.

Unit Function

The Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS) is the senior college of the UK Defence Academy delivering the UK Global Strategy Programme (GSP).

Position Role

The Deputy Head Global Strategy Programme will support the Head in the design, development and delivery of the 11-month Global Strategy Programme (GSP) at RCDS.

Responsibilities

1. Focal point for Command & Staff Academic Provision contract: amendments business cases; compliance; representation on Board to uphold interests.
2. Monitor and manage risks associated with programme delivery including travel security and contractual obligations.
3. Engage with JTRA on governance. Agree DSAT documentation including EXVAL. Secretary to Customer Executive Board (CEB) Working Group. Manage feedback processes.
4. T&​E advice for College programmes. Actively manage Quality Improvement Action Plan. Conduct first party DSAT audits and support external second party audits.
5. Contribute to reviews of the GSP curriculum and delivery methods identifying opportunities for innovation and improvement.
6. Provide staff cover during shortages to ensure continuity of programme delivery potentially including the design and delivery of national and international study tours.
7. Represent RCDS externally as directed. There may also be an opportunity to conduct (international) benchmarking exercises against other institutions.
8. Devise and co‑deliver bespoke Defence Higher Education Trainer (DHET) Training to new Senior Directing Staff (SDS). Devise and deliver appropriate CPD for SDS and DS.