University Secretary

TPP RECRUITMENT; London; Hybrid; GBP 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious UK university is seeking an experienced University Secretary to act as a principal adviser to the COO and manage governance functions. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in UK higher education, strong knowledge of governance principles, and proven leadership skills. The role offers a salary of £75,000–£85,000 pro rata with competitive benefits including 30 days annual leave and pension scheme.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Competitive pension scheme

Access to on-site café and fitness center

Free CPD opportunities

Cycle to work scheme

Free shuttle service

Qualifications

• Significant senior-level experience working within UK higher education.
• Deep understanding of governance principles and best practices.
• Experience as a Data Protection Officer or equivalent responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Act as principal adviser to the COO, Council, and Executive.
• Lead and develop the governance function managing governance staff.
• Oversee the administration of the University Council and formal committees.

Skills

Experience in UK higher education

Understanding of HE governance principles

Risk management expertise

Committee administration skills

Leadership and management experience

Job description

Overview

Job role: University Secretary

Contract: 6-month fixed term

Salary: £75,000–£85,000 pro rata

Location: Greater London (onsite during induction; hybrid thereafter)

Closing Date: 17th September 2025

Interview Date: 29th September 2025

A prestigious UK university, based on 600 acres of land, accessible from London, around 20–25 minutes by train to London King’s Cross or Moorgate station. They haverecently granted full university status by Royal Charter, is seeking an experienced and proactive University Secretary to join on an interim basis during a key period of development.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as principal adviser to the COO, Council, and Executive on governance, risk, and compliance
• Lead and develop the governance function, including managing five staff (Governance Officers, DPO, Committee Admins)
• Lead on institutional risk management processes
• Oversee the administration of the University Council and formal committees
• Promote best practice in line with sector standards, OfS requirements, and the Nolan Principles

Ideal candidates must have

• Significant senior-level experience working within UK higher education, with a deep understanding of HE governance principles and best practice, including the Nolan Principles
• A strong grasp of the legal, constitutional, policy, and regulatory environment in which UK universities operate, including governance trends and developments
• Experience acting as a Data Protection Officer, or holding equivalent responsibility for data protection and information compliance in a UK context
• Proven track record of leading on risk management processes at a senior level
• Substantial experience of committee administration, including writing and presenting papers to formal governance bodies
• Strong leadership and management experience, including leading professional admin teams within an HE setting

What’s on Offer

• 30 days annual leave, plus 3 concessionary days and bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Access to on-site café, restaurant, and fitness & wellbeing centre (gym, classes, climbing wall)
• Free in-house and externally funded CPD
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free shuttle service from nearby stations

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.