Chief Academic Officer

Plymouth Marjon University is a values-driven, student-centred institution with a proud heritage and a bold ambition for the future. Marjon combines academic excellence with a strong sense of community, purpose and social responsibility and we are committed to delivering outstanding education, impactful research and meaningful partnerships that make a positive difference for people, place and prospects locally, nationally and globally.

As we continue to deliver our ambitious University Strategy, Marjon 2030, we are seeking an exceptional and inspirational Chief Academic Officer to join our Executive Leadership Team.

Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, the Chief Academic Officer is a key member of the University’s Executive Leadership Team, working collectively with colleagues and the Board to realise our strategic goals. The role will encompass many elements of a traditional Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic role but also include a wider strategic purpose around leading the growth and development of our provision and activities within a strategic transformation agenda.

The Chief Academic Officer will be the University’s strategic lead for the academic domain, responsible for directing, developing and assuring the University’s academic work across all Marjon delivery sites, including with academic partners, nationally and globally.

Strong candidates will bring a demonstrable and successful track record of senior leadership within higher education provision, underpinned by a strategic and proactive mindset and the ability to develop, manage and deliver large, complex business cases. They will show an absolute commitment to Marjon’s values, mission and distinctive ethos.

The successful appointee will be a passionate ambassador and advocate for the University, able to communicate with credibility and impact across all levels, both internally and externally, representing Marjon locally, nationally and internationally. We are seeking an individual who will quickly make an impact, momentum and a strong commitment to transformation and progress.

This role offers a rare opportunity to join a high performing team, shape the future of higher education in a supportive environment and to make a lasting impact as we seek to end social inequity through life-changing teaching, learning, research and knowledge exchange.

How to Apply

Applications, which should be in the form of a CV and cover letter, should be sent to plymouthmarjon@minervasearch.com no later than Sunday 08 February 2026 at 11:59pm.

Interviews will be held in person in Plymouth over Thursday 05 and Friday 06 March 2026.

To view the candidate pack, please visit the apply button above.

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