Director, The Open University In Ireland

2 weeks ago


Dublin, Ireland Gatenbysanderson Full time

Overview
Director, The Open University in Ireland.
Location: Belfast.
Closing Date: 9am, Monday 27th October 2025.
This job post will be advertised for a minimum period of two weeks on LinkedIn.
After this time please apply directly to joinopenuniversity.com until the closing date of 9am, Monday 27th October 2025.
The Open University (OU) is seeking an outstanding leader to become our next Director in Ireland.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of flexible, part-time, and distance higher education across both Northern Ireland and Ireland, ensuring the OU's mission and values are championed on both sides of the border.
Responsibilities
Provide strategic leadership and management for all OU activities across the island of Ireland.
Represent the OU at the highest levels with government, universities, and key stakeholders to champion the OU's mission and values nationally and internationally.
Be a member of the Vice-Chancellor's Executive Team, contributing to the university's strategic direction and its implementation in Ireland.
Ensure academic strategy and delivery align with OU ambitions, maintaining a reputation for innovation and impact.
Lead and inspire OU teams in Ireland, fostering a high-performing, inclusive culture.
Represent the University with the Northern Ireland Executive, Irish Government, Universities Ireland, and other stakeholders; secure and optimise funding, manage budgets, and ensure quality and cost-effectiveness of operations.
Develop and implement a vision for the OU in Ireland aligned with University strategy; build strategic partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and agencies to expand reach and impact.
Oversee student recruitment, support services, and the delivery of targeted campaigns and communications.
Provide advice on geo-political, legislative, and funding developments affecting higher education in Ireland.
Champion equity, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in all OU activities.
Qualifications & Experience
Significant senior management experience in higher education or a related field with credibility to operate at executive level.
Proven track record of institutional representation, partnership building, and stakeholder engagement.
Outstanding leadership, staff management, and communication skills.
Strategic and operational expertise in resource and financial management; experience leading change and delivering high standards of service.
Strong commitment to the OU's mission, values, equity, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.
Educated to degree level (or equivalent professional qualification) is essential; a relevant higher degree is desirable.
How to Apply & Contact
If you are passionate about widening access to education and have the vision and leadership to drive the OU's mission across Ireland, we would love to hear from you.
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson:
Sophie Hester
:
For more information and to apply, click Apply.
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