About the Role
We are seeking an exceptional and highly influential leader to join the University as Chief of Staff, working directly with the Vice-Chancellor & Chief Executive and Executive Team at a pivotal stage in our strategic development.
This is a key senior leadership role, responsible for driving strategic alignment, enhancing organisational effectiveness, and ensuring the successful delivery of the University’s priorities. Acting as a trusted advisor and critical friend to the Vice-Chancellor, you will operate at the centre of the University, connecting strategy, delivery, governance and external engagement.
The role offers a unique opportunity to shape institutional direction and strengthen the University’s profile and partnerships at regional, national and international levels.
Key Responsibilities
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Provide strategic advice and insight to the Vice-Chancellor and Executive Team on priorities, risks and emerging issues
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Act as a central integrator across the Executive, ensuring alignment between strategy, performance and delivery
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Shape and deliver the University’s strategic narrative and executive communications
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Lead external engagement and partnerships, strengthening relationships with government, funders and key stakeholders
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Ensure effective executive governance and decision-making processes, including committee coordination and reporting
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Represent the University externally, enhancing influence, reputation and impact
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Support University resilience, including crisis management and rapid response coordination
About You
You will be an experienced senior leader with the credibility, judgement and influence to operate at executive level within a complex organisation.
You will demonstrate:
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A strong track record of strategic leadership and delivery, ideally within higher education or a comparable sector
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Proven experience of leading large-scale transformation or change programmes
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Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build relationships at senior levels internally and externally
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The ability to operate with high levels of autonomy, judgement and discretion
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Strong political awareness and experience of engaging with government, regulators or funding bodies
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Excellent communication skills, with the ability to shape narratives and influence at Board level
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High emotional intelligence, resilience and the ability to navigate complex and sensitive issues
Why Join Us
This is a rare opportunity to take on a strategically critical role at the heart of the University, working alongside the Vice-Chancellor and executive leadership to shape the future direction of the University.
You will play a central role in delivering transformational change, strengthening our external influence, and ensuring we are well-positioned for the evolving higher education landscape.
Wrexham University is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates and will ensure applicants will not be discriminated against due to their protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. The University will make all efforts to meet your access requirements. Please contact our Human Resources Team as soon as possible to discuss any adjustments or assistance you may need to complete your application form, or to answer any queries you may have.
We welcome applications in Welsh and English. Any applications submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than applications submitted in English.
Excellence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Transformation & Sustainability
