Deputy University Secretary

With a proud history spanning over 50 years, the University of Bath has grown in both scale and reputation and is now home to a vibrant community of more than 20,000 students from 153 countries. Renowned for its excellence in teaching and research, the University consistently ranks among the UK’s top five in the Complete University Guide 2024 and is placed within the global top 150 in the QS World University Rankings. Named 'University of the Year' and ranked 8th in the UK by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023, Bath is celebrated for its outstanding student experience and teaching quality. Its three Faculties—Engineering & Design, Science, and Humanities & Social Sciences—alongside the School of Management, drive a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and global impact.

Role

The Deputy University Secretary plays a pivotal leadership role in shaping and delivering high-quality governance, compliance, risk management and organisational resilience and business continuity across the University. Reporting to the University Secretary and Registrar, the post holder will provide expert advice on legal, regulatory, and sector developments, ensuring robust frameworks for data protection, information governance, and organisational resilience and business continuity. This role involves strategic oversight of Council, Senate, and UEB operations, as well as strong stakeholder engagement, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex challenges across both strategic and operational levels.

• Lead the Governance, Compliance, Risk and organisational resilience and business continuity Teams, ensuring high-quality support for Council, Senate, UEB, and their committees.
• Provide expert advice on governance, legal, and regulatory matters, including data protection and sector developments.
• Ensure compliance with the University’s Charter, Statutes, Ordinances, and the CUC Governance Code.
• Oversee implementation of governance decisions and effectiveness reviews, embedding improvements across the institution.
• Support induction, training, and engagement of Council, Senate, and UEB members.
• Handle risk, compliance, organisational resilience and business continuity frameworks, using data to inform strategic decisions.
• Produce and oversee high-quality reports, committee papers, and governance documentation.
• Maintain and enhance the University’s governance frameworks, policies, and website content.
• Promote best practice in secretariat services and governance across the University.
• Manage team resources and budgets, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.

About You

This is an exciting opportunity to join the University of Bath—a top-ranking institution with bold ambitions and a relentless drive for excellence. We’re on the lookout for a strategic and inspiring leader ready to take charge and bring together governance, compliance, risk, organisational resilience and business continuity into one high-performing, unified team. You’ll bring sharp expertise in governance, UK charity and company law, and the higher education regulatory landscape, including data protection legislation. With a proven ability to lead, influence, and deliver results in complex environments, you’ll thrive on managing change, supporting senior committees, and driving continuous improvement. Your strengths in planning, analysis, and communication will be key, along with sound judgment and the confidence to engage at the highest levels. If you're ready to make a lasting impact, build strong partnerships, and help shape the University’s future resilience - this is your moment!

Campus interviews are expected on the week commencing 14th July 2025.

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