The Open University in Scotland (OUiS) is the leading provider of part-time higher education. Some 40% of Scotland’s students studying part-time at undergraduate level with a higher education institution study with the OU. We are proud to have been voted as one of the best universities in Scotland for student satisfaction for the past nine years.
As the University’s most senior Officer in Scotland the Director, OUiS will be the Vice-Chancellor’s representative on many influential bodies within Scotland. The post is instrumental to the achievement of the University’s strategic ambitions in Scotland and thus regular and substantial interaction with the Vice-Chancellor will be of critical importance. The Director, OUiS represents the University in all relationships with Scottish Government, Scottish Funding Council, HEIs in Scotland and other national agencies. The Director, OUiS will also contribute to the achievement of the aims and objectives of the wider university and is a member of the Student Services Leadership team, led by myself as Director, Students.
The OU in Scotland’s office is led by the Director and three Depute Directors. Together, with the Edinburgh-based team drawn from Student Services and the University’s seven faculties/schools, are responsible for supporting approximately 15,000 students across Scotland. The Director will lead the delivery of services, to enable the development of learning, and the recruitment and retention of students in Scotland.
The OU in Scotland team provides advice, guidance and learning support to prospective and existing students, including a programme of outreach events; administers examinations; organises an annual degree ceremony and promotes the University and its courses within Scotland.
You will have excellent leadership and management capabilities and be skilled at working with a wide range of administrative and academic colleagues from across this complex and unique institution.
The OU in Scotland has the twin tasks of ensuring that the University’s high standards of teaching and student support are met in Scotland, whilst recognising and reflecting the distinctiveness of the society in which we work. You will be joining the University at a critical time in the higher education sector, promoting the power of part-time learning to all who can benefit from it, but you will be rewarded by working with energetic and committed staff at all levels who are all committed to the Open University’s values and mission.
If you believe you have the credentials and qualities we are looking for in the Director, OUiS we would be delighted to explore this opportunity with you.
Keith Zimmerman
Director, Students
Student Services
The Open University