Story

Shaping the Future of University of the Arts London

Published date
3 March 2026

The University of the Arts London is entering an important new chapter and is seeking two exceptional executive leaders to help drive its next phase of strategic delivery. Working as key members of the Executive Board, the incoming Chief Financial Officer and Chief People Officer will play pivotal roles in shaping the future direction of one of the world’s leading creative universities.

These appointments come at a significant moment for both the institution and the wider higher education sector. With financial pressures across the sector and an ongoing commitment to innovation and student experience, UAL is looking for leaders who combine strategic judgement with strong operational credibility and a collaborative mindset.

Chief Financial Officer

The Chief Financial Officer will lead the development and delivery of a sustainable financial strategy that balances robust stewardship with the need to enable innovation and long term value.

Operating in a challenging financial environment, the role will be instrumental in helping UAL respond thoughtfully to sector pressures, including international student fee changes and ongoing investment in education and provision. The successful candidate will work closely with the Vice Chancellor and Executive Board to ensure financial resilience while supporting the University’s ambitious strategic goals.

This is a rare opportunity for a finance leader who thrives on complexity, values partnership working and is motivated by purpose driven impact.

Chief People Officer

The Chief People Officer will provide strategic leadership across People and Culture and Health and Safety, placing inclusive and people centred leadership at the heart of the University’s future.

With UAL’s strategy heavily dependent on the strength and wellbeing of its workforce, the postholder will champion equality, diversity and inclusion, strengthen frameworks that support wellbeing and performance, enable leadership capability across the institution, ensure high quality people services that underpin an excellent student experience.

The role offers a significant platform for a progressive people leader who can operate credibly at executive level while driving meaningful cultural impact.

Why University of the Arts London (UAL)

UAL describes itself as an ambitious and intellectually curious community, deeply committed to creativity as a catalyst for change. Both roles offer the opportunity to contribute to an institution with global influence across the cultural and educational landscape.

Applications are welcomed from candidates both within and beyond higher education, with diversity of experience and perspective strongly valued.