Executive Chief Advisor to the Vice-Chancellor

The Vice-Chancellor and the University Leadership Team are leading the delivery of our exciting and ambitious new strategy for the University, for which the Vice-Chancellor requires a proactive Executive Chief Advisor with strong business and policy acumen to work collaboratively with both internal and external stakeholders; to advise the Vice-Chancellor on high-level policy issues, anticipating significant strategic issues and where appropriate leading on and supporting the University Leadership Team in the delivery of strategic projects and institutional initiatives. The Executive Chief Advisor will play a pivotal role in supporting the Vice-Chancellor and University Leadership Team with the delivery of the University’s strategic objectives.

The University’s new strategy - ‘Innovating to Enrich Lives’ – frames how the University will work as an inclusive community to take the University’s ethos into the next five years and beyond. The University will achieve this through fostering a collaborative, inclusive and purposeful culture. Enquiry, learning and action will be at the heart of all that we do. We believe this will lead to outstanding quality and world-changing outcomes that will enable:

• Our students to flourish and contribute to society.
• Our colleagues to be members of an organisation that strives for social justice in how we operate.
• The development of new knowledge and advanced technology and practice.
• The University community to be fully embedded in contributing to the broader community of which we are part.

Ultimately our goal is innovating towards a more sustainable, equitable, just, healthy, creative and prosperous society.

Key Responsibilities of the role:

• Support the Vice-Chancellor at key meetings, events, and conferences with the preparation of speeches, presentations and briefings, representing the Vice-Chancellor when required.
• Anticipate and address significant strategic and operational issues, providing insightful advice and strategic recommendations.
• Work with internal stakeholders to analyse proposals and policy issues, ensuring alignment with the University's strategy.
• Provide confidential advice and support on sensitive issues, troubleshooting significant institutional and reputational challenges.
• Support the Vice-Chancellor on major visits, leading follow-up actions with the University Leadership Team and other colleagues.
• Engage in external networks to identify emerging practices and compliance matters relevant to the Vice-Chancellor.
• Manage the social media accounts for the Vice-Chancellor and liaise closely with colleagues on both internal and external comms.

We are looking for candidates who are able to demonstrate the following:

• High levels of initiative, influencing, leadership, and policy skills.
• Creative, open, and collaborative approach.
• Strong understanding of the public policy environment.
• Excellent written, communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proven experience in project leadership and strategic analysis.

What's in it for you?

• Competitive salary - and excellent pension scheme.
• An impressive 32 days leave - plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more!
• Flexible working - we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance.
• Professional development – we offer a comprehensive package of training and development opportunities to help you achieve your full potential.
• Our community - there's a real sense of belonging here at Salford. We value diversity, in backgrounds and in experiences. Our difference makes us stronger, and together we share a passion for improving students' lives.

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