Chief Operating Officer Job in UK 2026 | University of Bath
Chief Operating Officer Job in UK 2026 | University of Bath
The University of Bath is seeking to appoint an exceptional Chief Operating Officer (COO) in 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the institution’s long-term strategic evolution. Based in Bath, England, this executive leadership role sits at the heart of Strategy 2036, focused on strengthening operational excellence, sustainable growth, and institutional resilience.
This opportunity is designed for senior leaders with global experience in complex, regulated, or mission-driven environments. International applicants may be considered in line with UK Skilled Worker visa regulations, subject to eligibility at the offer stage.
About Role
The Chief Operating Officer is a core member of the University Executive Board and serves as a strategic partner to the Vice-Chancellor & President. This is a transformative leadership mandate, extending far beyond operational oversight into enterprise-wide strategic enablement.
The COO will integrate digital transformation, estates development, service optimisation, sustainability, and resource stewardship into a unified operating framework that supports excellence in education, research, and innovation. The role demands pace, commercial insight, and executive-level judgement while preserving the University’s public purpose and values-led culture.
Executive oversight includes Digital Services and Technology, Campus Infrastructure, Campus Services, Sustainability and Space Management, Sports, and the University Library. The successful candidate will ensure operational systems are future-ready, financially disciplined, and aligned with institutional ambitions.
About Hiring Firm
The University of Bath is a consistently top-ranked UK institution, internationally recognised for academic excellence, research impact, and student outcomes. Located on a purpose-built campus overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, the University combines global reach with a strong sense of community and public mission.
The institution is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, proudly holding accreditation as a Disability Confident Leader and autism-friendly university. Bath fosters an intellectually rigorous environment where innovation, integrity, and inclusion are central to institutional culture.
Responsibilities
* Provide executive leadership across a broad operational portfolio
* Partner strategically with the Vice-Chancellor and Executive Board
* Lead large-scale organisational transformation and change initiatives
* Integrate digital, estates, sustainability, and service functions into a cohesive operating model
* Strengthen financial stewardship and disciplined investment planning
* Build and mentor high-performing leadership teams
* Enhance institutional resilience, performance, and governance alignment
* Represent operations at the Executive and Governing Body levels
Requirements
* Significant senior leadership experience managing complex operations
* Demonstrated track record of delivering large-scale organisational change
* Strong commercial acumen and strategic judgement
* Executive-level credibility with governing boards and senior stakeholders
* Proven ability to lead through others and develop senior teams
* Experience operating within regulated, mission-driven, or large institutional environments
* Capacity to drive pace and performance while sustaining trust and institutional values
* Eligibility to meet UK right-to-work or Skilled Worker visa requirements if applicable
This Chief Operating Officer appointment represents a rare executive opportunity to shape the operational future of a globally respected UK university. For accomplished leaders motivated by public impact, strategic transformation, and institutional excellence, the University of Bath offers a platform to deliver a lasting legacy at scale within a world-class academic environment.
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