Founded in the 15th century, St Andrews is Scotland’s first university and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. This year the University of St Andrews topped the Guardian University Guide 2023, the first time a University other than Oxford or Cambridge has done so in the history of the league table. We are a diverse community of 10,000 students and 2,500 staff, a melting pot of 140 nationalities which accounts for over half the population of the town.

St Andrews’ USP is the excellence of its staff and the quality of research-led teaching. It has consistently inhabited the upper reaches of the National Student Survey. Staff choose St Andrews for its unswerving loyalty to a culture that prizes and protects the highest standards of research and teaching. Beyond the books, quality of life feeds on sea and sky, cobbled streets, culture, and a collision of world views which make this compressed community one of the most intellectually stimulating in Europe.

As we progress through our current strategic period, our objectives support our commitment to be world-class across all our academic activities, and to be at the forefront of addressing global challenges in socially responsible ways. To help support our research community we are seeking a Director of Research Support Service to deliver on our ambitions and to help shape the institution’s future.

Reporting directly to the Vice Principal (Research, Collections and Innovation) and secondary reporting to the Quaestor and Chief Operating Officer, this position will provide the strategic and operational leadership of research support across the University. The appointed individual will drive the success of the University’s ambitions through implementing a refreshed vision for research support that ensures current and new support functions deliver a transformational change in the way academics and professional services teams work together to deliver excellent funded research.

Compelling candidates will be able to demonstrate exceptional experience of management and coordination of research support at a senior level within a research-intensive university, the ability to deliver on ambitious targets, and a proven track record of building relationships with key stakeholders, both internal and external to the University.

How to Apply

For a confidential discussion regarding this position, please contact our search advisor, Alex Albone, at Berwick Partners (an Odgers Berndtson company) via alex.albone@berwickpartners.co.uk.

Applications should consist of a curriculum vitae detailing relevant qualifications and experience, full employment history and achievements. CVs should be accompanied by a covering letter describing briefing how you feel you meet the criteria outlined in the Job Specification, your achievements, why the appointment is of interest, and what you’d like to achieve in the role.

Closing Date: Friday 7th July (17:00 BST)