Deputy Secretary, School of the Physical Sciences

We are looking for a skilled administrator and manager to join our small and friendly team. You will be an integral member of the team, and of the leadership of the School, supporting the School Secretary across the range of strategic issues the School faces. You will also work closely with the Deputy Head of School for Education on the broad Education portfolio, as well as leading the operational side of the School Office team. There is also the opportunity to take forward specific projects which can be shaped by the interests of the role holder, but might include working with particular Departments, specific policy issues, support for the postgraduate widening participation agenda, or contributing to the development of the new Rokos School of Government.
This is an excellent chance for a talented individual to advance their career. The School Office provides a unique perspective on the operation of the University, sitting at an interesting interface between the academic Departments of the School, who are at the forefront of delivering exceptionally high-quality teaching and ground-breaking research, and the University's central administration. We also collaborate directly with external bodies such as funders, especially the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.
The role requires experience of staff management and managing change, but most of all the ability to pick-up new issues, in policy or operations, and take them forward to the benefit of the School and its Departments. Candidates should be qualified to at least first degree level or have equivalent professional experience. A qualification in a Physical Science subject is emphatically not a requirement for the post.
This opportunity is open to current University of Cambridge employees only. Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
Temporary cover: This post is fixed-term until 30 September 2027 or the return of the post holder, whichever is the earlier.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check.
Why Join Us?
In joining the School of the Physical Sciences, you will not only be part of collaborative and forward-thinking teams that support world-class research, but you will also be part of a welcoming and inclusive workplace with excellent opportunities for professional development. The School offers flexible and hybrid working opportunities.
The University of Cambridge is committed to supporting staff to thrive professionally and personally and offers a wide range of benefits