Location
Docklands Campus

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£62,443 to £71,685 per annum inclusive of London Weighting

About the Role
University of East London (UEL), founded in 1898, is committed to advancing industry 5.0 careers-first education and creating a diverse, inclusive, and green future. Academic Registry is at the operational and strategic heart of the University, delivering essential services, systems, and governance that support students from enrolment through to graduation. As UEL modernises its digital estate and transforms student administration, Academic Registry leads redesigning processes, improving data quality, and developing smarter, integrated systems.

As Head of Systems & Courses, you will lead the University's approach to student records systems, course administration, and business process improvement. Reporting to the Deputy Academic Registrar, you will provide leadership across the Systems and Courses teams and collaborate with colleagues across Academic Registry, Strategic Planning, IT Services, Finance, Academic Schools, and Professional Services.

You will play a pivotal role in institution-wide change by transforming how student information is managed throughout the student lifecycle—from course creation and enrolment through assessment, progression, and award. This role offers the opportunity to influence strategic decision-making, lead complex projects, and embed innovative approaches that improve operational effectiveness, strengthen compliance, and enhance the student experience.

Your responsibilities will include:
- Providing strategic leadership for UEL's student records systems and course administration functions.
- Leading continuous development and optimisation of business processes across the student lifecycle.
- Delivering complex systems and business change projects in partnership with IT Services and key institutional stakeholders.
- Driving improvements in data quality, governance, and statutory reporting to support institutional decision-making and regulatory compliance.
- Leading and developing specialist teams, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Representing Academic Registry across University committees, projects, and external sector networks, bringing insight and best practice into the organisation.

UEL offers a comprehensive benefits package including a 20% pension contribution (4% employee, 16% employer), 25 days holiday plus 3 days over Christmas, bank holidays, hybrid and flexible working options, subsidised gym membership, life assurance, healthcare cashback scheme, and various discounts on lifestyle and shopping.

UEL is an inclusive, equal-opportunities employer committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, with recognised Stonewall membership and Athena Swan awards. We strive to close the diversity pay gap and foster an environment where all staff and students can thrive.

Experience
Significant experience leading student records systems, course administration, or academic registry services within higher education. Extensive knowledge of student lifecycle administration, regulatory compliance, and sector requirements including HESA and Student Loans Company returns. Proven track record of delivering systems enhancements, digital transformation, or business process improvement programmes. Experience using data and insight to improve services, strengthen governance, and support strategic decision-making.

About you
Strategic thinker with operational excellence who understands that effective student records systems are fundamental to delivering an outstanding student experience and institutional success. Comfortable leading organisational change and building trusted relationships across complex university departments. Able to translate strategic ambitions into practical, sustainable improvements. Outstanding leadership skills with the ability to inspire, develop, and empower high-performing teams. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills with experience influencing colleagues at all organisational levels. Confident in balancing operational priorities with long-term strategic objectives. Passionate about solving complex challenges, embracing innovation, and improving services that make a genuine difference to students and colleagues.

Qualifications
Relevant higher education experience and qualifications aligned with the role. Commitment to continuous professional development and sector best practice.