Chief Operating Officer

The University of Nottingham is currently undertaking a major organisational transformation programme led by its new President & Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jane Norman. To help deliver this, the university is reshaping the structure of its University Executive Board (UEB) and hiring to several senior leadership roles within the Professional Services domain. A new Chief Operating Officer (COO) will become the driving force behind enhancing, streamlining and integrating the critical operational functions that underpin the university’s teaching, student experience, and research.

Reporting directly to Professor Jane Norman, and serving as a key and collaborative member of the UEB, you will be accountable for the delivery of Nottingham’s Strategic Plan and of the ‘Future Nottingham’ transformation programme. Through embedding operational excellence, you will ensure that the University can meet its academic ambitions, achieve its strategic objectives, and further elevate its ranking and reputation.

The university is seeking an inspirational and visionary leader with experience of reshaping the performance and culture of a comparably sizeable and complex organisation. You will possess a track record of delivering, and reshaping diverse operational functions. As a decisive and collegiate leader, you will be capable of deploying multiple approaches to achieve positive change on a sustained basis. You will furthermore ensure that the university’s values, including equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), are embodied in all aspects of your work.

This is a chance to join a high-performing team shaping the future of one of the UK’s largest and most respected universities. 

With a proud history dating back to 1881, Nottingham’s campuses in the UK, China and Malaysia are home to a combined total of 45,000 students and 9,000 staff. Its pioneering research has been transforming lives and societies for generations. The university is a member of the Russell Group and is known around the world for its exceptional educational experience, its distinctive global footprint, and its beautiful estate.

The deadline for receipt of applications is midday (GMT) on Monday 24th March 2025.

The University of Nottingham is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone – regardless of background, identity, or lived experience – can thrive. As such, it welcomes applications from all qualified candidates and actively encourage those from underrepresented or marginalised groups to apply. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.