2025 Higher Education Leadership Guide

University Management Roles: Explore Leadership Positions in Higher Education

At AcademicJobs.com, we specialize in connecting professionals with high-level opportunities. Based on OECD and BLS 2025 data, management roles average $100K+, with presidents reaching $450K globally.

University management roles focus on leadership, with 60% non-academic staff per OECD. BLS 2025 shows 7% growth in admin positions, driven by enrollment and tech.

Pay varies: High in US ($200K+ for deans), lower elsewhere. Advance via experience, networking; roles like CIO demand tech expertise.

Executive vs. Operational Management: A Breakdown

Executive Roles

Strategic leadership like presidents; high pay with bonuses, fundraising focus.

Operational Roles

Day-to-day management like directors; competitive salaries in student services, IT.

The 10 Highest Paying Management Positions

Global averages from OECD/BLS 2025; higher in US with bonuses, perks like housing.

RankJob TitleDescriptionGlobal Avg SalaryActions
1University President/ChancellorChief executive; strategy, fundraising.$300,000–$1,000,000+ (avg ~$450,000)Search
2Provost/Chief Academic OfficerOversees academic programs, faculty.$150,000–$300,000 (avg ~$170,000)Search
3Dean of Admissions/DeanLeads admissions or faculties.$120,000–$250,000 (avg ~$140,000)Search
4Vice President of Enrollment ManagementManages recruitment, retention.$110,000–$220,000 (avg ~$130,000)Search
5Chief Financial Officer/Vice President of FinanceBudgeting, resource allocation.$100,000–$250,000 (avg ~$125,000)Search
6Athletic DirectorSports programs, compliance.$90,000–$200,000 (avg ~$110,000)Search
7Director of Student Financial AidAid distribution, compliance.$80,000–$150,000 (avg ~$100,000)Search
8Director of Alumni Relations/DevelopmentFundraising, donor relations.$70,000–$140,000 (avg ~$90,000)Search
9Chief Information OfficerIT infrastructure, cybersecurity.$100,000–$200,000 (avg ~$120,000)Search
10Director of Academic Advising/Student ServicesStudent support, career services.$70,000–$130,000 (avg ~$85,000)Search

Top 10 Highest-Paying Management Positions

Rankings based on 2025 global averages; US-heavy data with bonuses.

2

Provost/Chief Academic Officer

(Management)

$150K–$300K
1

University President/Chancellor

(Management)

$300K–$1M+
3

Dean of Admissions/Dean

(Management)

$120K–$250K
RankJob TitleSalary Range
4Vice President of Enrollment Management$110,000–$220,000
5Chief Financial Officer/Vice President of Finance$100,000–$250,000
6Athletic Director$90,000–$200,000
7Director of Student Financial Aid$80,000–$150,000
8Director of Alumni Relations/Development$70,000–$140,000
9Chief Information Officer$100,000–$200,000
10Director of Academic Advising/Student Services$70,000–$130,000

Build Leadership Experience

Start in mid-level roles; gain 5-10 years for executive advancement.

Pursue Advanced Education

PhD/MBA key for provosts/deans; boosts credibility, pay.

Network Strategically

Conferences, associations lead to opportunities; focus on fundraising skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about university management roles and careers.

What is the difference between academic and non-academic jobs in universities?

Academic roles focus on teaching and research, such as professor jobs or lecturer positions, requiring advanced degrees like PhDs. Non-academic roles support operations, including administrative assistant positions or facilities maintenance jobs, often needing bachelor's degrees or certifications.

How do university salaries vary globally in 2025?

Salaries are higher in developed countries like the US, Canada, and Switzerland, with OECD 2025 data showing junior academic staff averaging ~$65K USD, rising to over $100K for seniors. In developing nations, averages drop to $30K-$50K. Factors include location, experience, and field—STEM roles pay more. Explore highest paying university jobs for details.

What qualifications are needed for entry-level university jobs?

For non-academic roles like admissions officer positions, a bachelor's degree and relevant skills suffice. Academic entry-level jobs, such as teaching assistant roles or research assistant jobs, often require enrollment in graduate programs or a master's. Gain experience via internships.

Are there high-paying non-academic jobs in higher education?

Yes, roles like HR specialist positions (~$60K-$90K global avg) or financial specialist jobs offer competitive pay. Advance to management for higher earnings. See university management positions for top salaries.

What are the most in-demand university jobs in 2025?

Based on BLS and OECD 2025 trends, IT support, academic advisers, and research assistants are surging due to digital transformation and enrollment growth. Non-academic roles like facilities maintenance also remain steady. Search in-demand higher education jobs on AcademicJobs.com.

How has remote work impacted common university jobs?

Post-pandemic, many administrative and IT roles offer hybrid options, boosting flexibility. Academic positions like lecturers may include online teaching. Per OECD 2025, this trend increases global access but varies by institution. Find remote university jobs here.

Ready to Lead in Higher Education?

Explore management opportunities with top salaries at AcademicJobs.com.

 
University Management Roles ✅ Top Leadership Jobs in Higher Ed