University Secretary

University Secretary
University of Bradford
Competitive salary

The University of Bradford is seeking an experienced and authoritative University Secretary to join its Executive Team and play a central role in supporting effective governance, regulatory assurance and institutional decision-making.

This is a critical and well-established role within the University, combining statutory responsibilities with strategic leadership across governance, legal and compliance. Reporting to the Chair of Council on governance matters and to the Vice-Chancellor on legal, compliance and risk, the University Secretary is the principal adviser to the governing body and a trusted member of the senior leadership team.

You will act as Secretary to the Council, Senate and other governing bodies, ensuring that the University’s constitutional framework operates effectively and in accordance with its Charter, Statutes and Ordinances. You will provide expert, independent advice to the Chair and members of Council, supporting them in fulfilling their responsibilities and ensuring that governance arrangements reflect regulatory requirements and sector best practice.

The role carries executive responsibility for the University’s governance, legal and regulatory framework, including oversight of compliance, assurance and institutional risk. You will lead the University’s approach to risk management, strengthening organisational resilience and ensuring that risk is effectively understood, managed and aligned to strategic priorities. You will also ensure that high-quality legal advice informs major institutional decisions, partnerships and complex contractual arrangements, protecting institutional interests.

As a member of the University Executive Team, you will contribute to the overall leadership and direction of the institution, working closely with colleagues to ensure alignment between governance, regulation, strategy and delivery. You will lead the Governance, Legal and Compliance Directorate, ensuring the provision of high-quality, efficient and responsive services aligned to institutional priorities.

You will play a key role in maintaining effective relationships between Council and the Executive, supporting transparency, strong governance and informed decision-making. You will also represent the University externally on governance, legal and compliance matters, contributing to sector developments and partnerships.

We are seeking a senior leader with substantial experience of governance, legal and compliance within a large and complex organisation. You will bring a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, institutional assurance and risk, alongside experience of supporting governing bodies or boards at the highest level. Experience within higher education or a similarly regulated environment will be important.

You will be a credible and trusted adviser, with excellent judgement, political awareness and the ability to build strong relationships with governing body members, executive colleagues and external stakeholders. You will demonstrate integrity, discretion and a clear commitment to the principles of good governance and public accountability.

This is an opportunity to play a central role in the leadership of a university with a strong sense of purpose, a clear strategic direction and a deep commitment to inclusion, integrity and academic excellence.

For further information, including how to apply, please visit: University of Bradford – University Secretary | AQ

Closing date: noon on Monday 15th June 2026

We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds and are fully committed to supporting all our employees so that they feel able to be their whole selves at work. We particularly welcome applications from black and minority ethnic, disabled and LGBTQ+ candidates.