Secretary of the School of Arts and Humanities

University of Cambridge

As one of the world's oldest and most successful universities, the University of Cambridge has an exceptional reputation for research and academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the foremost universities globally. The academic mission of the University is delivered through six Schools, each supporting a diverse range of world-leading scholarship, teaching and research.

The School of Arts and Humanities encompasses a broad and diverse community. Together, these institutions represent more than 700 staff, over 3,500 students and an annual budget exceeding £45 million. We are now seeking a strategic, collaborative and forward-thinking leader to take on the role of Secretary of the School.

The Role

Reporting to the Academic Secretary and the Head of the School of Arts and Humanities, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing all aspects of the School's activities, deputising as required and proactively addressing opportunities and challenges.

You will help shape and deliver the Schools strategic plans, spanning academic development, finance, estates and staffing, and will lead a high-performing professional services team across the School's departments and faculties. You will build strong partnerships with central professional services to ensure effective, consistent processes that support academic priorities.

You will oversee strategic planning, resource allocation and risk management processes, working with the School Finance Business Partner to develop plans and budgets and ensure progress is monitored. As Secretary to the School Council and its committees, you will provide expert governance and policy advice and prepare key papers for senior committees. You will contribute to major School projects, including philanthropy-funded initiatives, ensuring that plans are delivered effectively.

A collaborative, inclusive and delivery-focused working culture will be central to your leadership. You will also play an active role in the Academic Secretary's team and support wider University initiatives, undertaking additional projects as required.

About You

You will bring substantial senior operational management experience from a higher education or similar environment, with a strong track record in strategic planning, leading people and delivering change. Able to communicate persuasively and build effective relationships at all levels, you will combine strategic thinking with the ability to deliver high-quality operational services. Strong analytical skills, sound financial planning experience, and a pragmatic, delivery-focused approach are essential. A commitment to the University's academic mission and to fostering a confident, collaborative professional services community will be key to your success.

Why Join the School of Arts and Humanities?

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of one of the world's leading Arts and Humanities communities. You will join a talented and supportive leadership team, helping to shape a School committed to innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration and excellence in teaching and research. The role offers the chance to influence how professional services enable academic success, and to drive meaningful enhancement of processes, governance and support across a diverse and intellectually vibrant School.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Applications should include a CV and a covering letter.

The closing date for applications is Monday 09 March 2026 at midnight.

Interviews to be held in April 2026.

Informal enquiries regarding this position can be made to Ben Warn, Secretary of the School of Arts and Humanities, (Ben.Warn@admin.cam.ac.uk).

If you have any queries about the recruitment process, please contact Rachel Hughes, Recruitment Adviser, Senior Professional Appointments (Rachel.hughes@admin.cam.ac.uk)

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.

Please quote reference AK48680 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Apply online

Key information

• Department/location
  Academic Division
• Salary
  £82,932-£105,009
• Reference
  AK48680
• Category
  Academic-related
• Date published
  9 February 2026
• Closing date
  9 March 2026

Download further information

• Further Particulars