Join our team
Chief Governance Officer and University Secretary
The University of Aberdeen is seeking an exceptional leader to join its Senior Management Team as Chief Governance Officer and University Secretary.
This key role involves leading governance, strategic planning, and risk management at one of the UK’s top universities. With 21,000 students and 3,500 staff from 130 nationalities, the University is globally recognised and consistently ranked among the UK’s best.
Open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others
Welcome Message from Julie Ashworth, Senior Governor of Court
Thank you for your interest in the role of Chief Governance Officer and University Secretary at the University of Aberdeen. This is a pivotal appointment at a time of exciting momentum and strategic ambition. As a globally recognised institution, we are proud of our continued rise in national and international rankings, including our position in the UK top 20 and global top 50 for impact. The University is deeply committed to the Aberdeen 2040 strategy, which places inclusiveness, sustainability, and global collaboration at its heart. We are seeking a governance leader who shares our values and can help us navigate the evolving landscape of higher education with integrity, agility, and strategic foresight.
The Chief Governance Officer and University Secretary plays a central role in supporting the University Court and enabling effective governance across the institution. You will be a trusted advisor to senior leaders, helping to shape decision-making and ensure regulatory compliance while fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the long-term success of a university that is both rooted in tradition and forward-looking in its ambitions. I look forward to welcoming a candidate who will bring energy, insight, and a collaborative spirit to this vital role.
