Registrar, Secretary & Chief Operating Officer

The University of Birmingham is a comprehensive research-intensive institution, ranked in the top 100 universities globally, and home to a diverse community of over 41,000 students from 150 countries and more than 9,000 staff. A £1bn organisation, our heritage as Britain's first civic university combines with an ambitious contemporary agenda to continue our transformation and become a global top 50 institution. Over 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally-excellent; our five research themes focus on a thriving planet, life-changing technologies, connecting cultures, global health and a fairer world.

We seek an exceptional individual to fulfil the role of Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer. A member of the University Executive Board, this is a pivotal top leadership role for the University, responsible for leading all of our Professional Services (c.4,500 staff), ensuring they make an outstanding contribution towards delivering our academic mission and goals as set out in our Strategic Framework. The role also has overall responsibility for the effectiveness of the University's governance, providing authoritative and independent advice to the University Council.

The postholder will make a significant contribution to the strategic and academic development of the University, fostering a strong culture of excellence, innovation and collaboration, and ensuring the delivery of efficient and effective services in a challenging higher education environment. As an inspirational senior leader with a track record of delivery and passion for higher education, you will bring significant experience leading large and diverse teams, including managing senior direct reports across a wide range of domains, delivering major projects, and working collaboratively with stakeholders from many disciplines and sectors.

The University is committed to building a fully inclusive and diverse community, including its senior leadership. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates from all backgrounds with the qualifications and experience to undertake this role, including under-represented groups.

The deadline for applications is 9:00 am (GMT) Monday 27th January 2025. For informal inquiries please contact Ryann Schutt at or (0).

Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role.