Executive Director - Strategic Planning

About the Role

The University of Greenwich is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director – Strategic Planning to join our Senior Leadership Team on a fixed-term contract until December 2026. This is a high-profile role, responsible for leading our integrated annual planning process, aligning resources and activities with the University's strategic priorities. As we move forward with the exciting prospect of merging with the University of Kent, this role will play a pivotal part in ensuring operational readiness and long-term strategic success.

You will provide advanced analytics and actionable insights to inform decision-making, monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), and guide our strategic direction. Additionally, you will oversee critical operational tools, ensuring governance and integrity across the University’s strategic and academic planning processes.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for an exceptional leader with a proven track record in strategic planning, insightful analytics and value driven monitoring of strategic KPIs, within a complex environment. You will bring advanced analytical skills and an in-depth understanding of the higher education sector (experience in this field is desirable, but not essential). Your ability to manage high-level strategic projects, work collaboratively across departments, and drive change will be essential for success in this role. The individual will have a track record of bringing the best out of their staff and creating an environment in which they can thrive.

Why Join Us?

At the university, we are committed to a collaborative and supportive working environment, with competitive salary and benefits package. You will have the opportunity to shape the strategic future of a higher education institution during a period of significant change and growth. This is a fantastic opportunity where you will lead at the heart of a dynamic and forward-thinking university.

We offer:

We aim to interview for this role on either Friday 23rd January 2026 or the week commencing the 26th January 2026 - this will be confirmed closer to the time, but please ensure you are available for these dates.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Louise Watson, Chief Financial Officer email: [email protected]

Should you have any recruitment related queries please contact the People Directorate Operations Team on [email protected] 

Further details of the fantastic benefits and what we offer can be found here: Our benefits - what we offer | Jobs and careers | University of Greenwich and information on the university’s working principles: Working Principles and Guidelines | Documents | University of Greenwich

To apply, please visit the University of Greenwich vacancies page and complete all details, including the supporting statements (please note attached CVs and personal statements will not be seen by the recruitment panel at the application stage). Current Vacancies - Jobs at Greenwich 

Employment Visa: Under the UK Government Points Based System scheme this role does meet the criteria to be sponsored for a Skilled Worker Route application. 

We are committed to building a strong, diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We particularly encourage applications from [protected characteristic(s)], who are currently under-represented within the University of Greenwich at these levels/within these areas.

We do this through taking positive action such as encouraging applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, disabled and LGBT+ people. As part of our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Time to Change Employer Pledge/Mentally Healthy Universities, we are committed to promoting and supporting the physical and mental health of all our staff, and removing barriers to improve inclusion. 

We encourage applicants to disclose experience of mental health problems so we can support them fully during our recruitment process and make any necessary reasonable adjustments. Any information disclosed will be kept confidential and separate from the job application form. 

We are making significant strides to understand and continuously improve our employees’ experience and we are committed to implementing progressive diversity talent management.

Closing Date: 15 Jan 2026

Department/Division: Senior Management

Salary: Competitive Salary