Director of People & Student Services

The University of Aberdeen is looking for an innovative and inspiring leader to shape and advance the University’s staff and student experience in the role of Director of People & Student Services.

This role focuses on creating a positive, supportive and inclusive environment in which both staff and students can thrive. You will lead the services that shape staff experience of the University, including staff recruitment, development and wellbeing, and the student experience from registration to graduation. Working closely with colleagues across the University, you will help ensure that support is joined-up, responsive and easy to access.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and working as part of the University’s Senior Management Team, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across People and Student Services. A key early priority will be reviewing and reshaping how services work together, simplifying processes and strengthening collaboration so that support is more effective for those who rely on it.

You will lead teams with a remit including human resources, student engagement and support, academic Services, careers and employability, wellbeing, health and safety, online education and immigration compliance. The role also includes responsibility for supporting the University’s transnational education activity, including established partnerships in Qatar, and the development of activity in other international markets. You will work constructively with trade unions, external partners and sector bodies, and provide clear, practical advice to senior colleagues on people-related, regulatory and policy matters.

We are looking for a senior leader with experience of working in a complex organisation and a strong commitment to people-centred services. You will bring a collaborative and inclusive leadership style, confidence working with a wide range of stakeholders, and experience of leading change in a way that balances organisational needs with wellbeing and engagement.

The salary for this post is in the range of £113,259 – £130,000 per annum, commensurate with experience.

The candidate appointed to this post is expected to be based in the Northeast of Scotland but may be eligible for homeworking on an occasional or regular basis. It is expected that you will spend 4 days per week on campus given the seniority and importance of this role. For more information, please refer to our Homeworking Policy.

Should you require a visa to undertake employment in the UK you will be required to fulfil the minimum points criteria to be granted a Certificate of Sponsorship under the requirements of the Skilled Worker visa. At the time an offer of appointment is made, you will be asked to demonstrate that you fulfil the criteria in respect of qualification and competency in English.

To apply online for this position visit www.abdn.ac.uk/jobs

Job Reference Number: PEO001A

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 1 June 2026.

The Directorate of People & Student Services embraces a diverse working environment and recognises the many benefits this can bring. Applications from individuals from across all of the equality protected characteristics are encouraged.