Head of Governance in Hertfordshire

Job description

⚖ Role | Head of Governance and Secretariat

Areas | Governance, Risk, Data Protection, Legal Services, Committee Administration

✨ Tech | Information governance systems, audit & risk tools

Based | Hertfordshire (with hybrid working)

Offer | £75,000 – £85,000 - 6 Month fixed term contract (can go permanent)

Hi

We’re working with a respected higher education institution looking to appoint a Head of Governance and Secretariat on an initial fixed-term basis. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for governance, data protection, legal services and compliance.

As Head of Governance and Secretariat, you will:

• Lead and manage governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and best practice.
• Act as Secretary to Council and key committees, overseeing all administration and information flow.
• Take responsibility as the institution’s Data Protection Officer, managing FOI, subject access requests and compliance.
• Oversee legal service provision and risk management processes, including internal audit.
• Mentor and develop a small governance team, embedding a collaborative, accountable culture.
• Support the delivery of the strategic plan through effective policy development and horizon scanning.

What we’re looking for:

• Degree-level qualification (or equivalent experience).
• Substantial experience in higher education or a comparable regulated sector.
• Strong knowledge of governance frameworks, policy, risk and compliance.
• Experience operating at a senior level, including committee administration and reporting.
• Proven leadership skills with experience of managing professional teams.
• Excellent communication and influencing ability at all levels.
• Data Protection Officer experience or significant knowledge of data protection requirements.

What we offer:

• Competitive salary in the range of £75,000 – £85,000.
• Hybrid working with flexibility to balance office and home working.
• Opportunity to shape and lead governance within a forward-looking institution.
• Inclusive culture that values diversity, wellbeing and professional development.

Extra information

Status

Closed

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Hertfordshire

Type of Contract

Part-time jobs

Profession type

Teaching / Instructors / Guides

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English