Chief Operating and Strategy Officer (UNNC-COSO)

## Opportunity Review: Chief Operating and Strategy Officer at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) This review offers potential candidates an in-depth look at the Chief Operating and Strategy Officer (COSO) position at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), highlighting key advantages and considerations for career growth.

The University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), established in 2004, stands as a pioneering Sino-foreign university and a significant global campus of the University of Nottingham, a world-renowned institution consistently ranked among the top 1% globally. With a vibrant international community of over 9,000 students and 1,000 staff from 70 countries, UNNC is a dynamic and expanding environment committed to excellence in education and research. This commitment is supported by substantial investment in state-of-the-art facilities, creating an inspiring setting for both staff and students.

The newly created role of Chief Operating and Strategy Officer (COSO) presents a truly exceptional opportunity for a strategic and dynamic leader to make a substantial impact on the trajectory of a leading international university. Reporting directly to the Provost & Pro-Vice Chancellor and serving as a key member of the Management Board, the COSO will be instrumental in shaping UNNC's operational effectiveness and ensuring its long-term sustainability. This position is central to driving strategic initiatives that will enhance the university's resource competitiveness, streamline operational efficiency, and elevate service excellence across the board.

Advantages for Aspiring Leaders:

• Strategic Influence: This role offers a unique chance to be at the forefront of shaping UNNC's future, directly contributing to the implementation of the institution's Strategic Roadmap to 2030. You will influence six critical thematic areas: Education and Student Experience, Research and Knowledge Exchange, Global Engagement and Reputation, People and Culture, Sustainability, and Finance and Infrastructure.
• Leadership Development: As a senior leader, you will have direct oversight of key functions such as Estates, IT, and Procurement, with the potential for your remit to expand. This provides a broad scope for developing and showcasing your leadership capabilities in complex organizational environments.
• International Exposure: Working within a truly global university, you will liaise with stakeholders across UNNC, the University of Nottingham in the UK and Malaysia, as well as the Joint Venture Board and the Wanli Education Group. This provides unparalleled cross-cultural and international collaboration experience.
• Innovation and Impact: You will champion a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and innovation, driving data-informed decision-making and embedding accountability across the university. Your work will directly contribute to operational plans aligning with ambitious strategic goals.
• Attractive Benefits Package: UNNC is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering competitive employment packages. This includes a range of benefits such as accommodation allowance, comprehensive insurance, schooling support for eligible dependents, home flight allowances, relocation and repatriation support, and generous paid annual leave. The salary and benefits are negotiable and commensurate with experience.
• Growth Potential: The role is offered on a full-time, fixed-term basis for five years, with the distinct possibility of extension. This provides stability and a significant window to embed your strategic vision and witness its long-term impact.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Strategic Acumen and Operational Expertise: The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record in leading strategic operations within complex organizations, preferably in higher education or related sectors. Demonstrable experience in managing significant capital and revenue budgets, delivering large-scale projects, and driving cultural and operational change is essential.
• Emotional Intelligence and Cultural Awareness: Given the international nature of UNNC, strong emotional intelligence, and a nuanced understanding of cultural dynamics are paramount for success in liaising with diverse stakeholders and fostering an inclusive environment.
• Collaborative Leadership Style: The ability to inspire high-performing teams, foster a culture of excellence, and build strong collaborative relationships across all levels of the institution will be critical. You will act as a trusted advisor, requiring excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Advanced Education: While not mandatory, an advanced degree such as an MBA, MPA, or DBA is highly desirable, reflecting the strategic and analytical demands of the role.
• Language Skills: While Mandarin language proficiency would be beneficial for navigating the local context, it is not a prerequisite for this position, making it accessible to a wider pool of international talent.

The Chief Operating and Strategy Officer role at UNNC is a significant opportunity for a seasoned leader to contribute to the strategic direction and operational excellence of a distinguished international university. If you are a visionary leader with a passion for driving impactful change within a global educational setting, this position offers a rewarding and challenging career path.