Chief Academic Services Officer - University of York, Mumbai Campus

Role Description

The University of York exists for public good, combining academic excellence with social purpose. As a world-leading institution and a member of the prestigious Russell Group, we combine outstanding research and teaching with purposeful community engagement. York's global reputation rests on its outstanding achievements in teaching and research, and is one of only four universities in the UK - alongside Oxford, Cambridge and Imperial College London - which is both in the top ten in the UK for the quality of its research and has a gold ranking for the quality of its teaching.

We have ambitious plans to open a campus in Mumbai, connected to local industry and business, and dedicated to the extraordinary dynamism of Maharashtra. Bringing the ‘York experience’ to this energetic city, at the heart of this dynamic and vibrant country. The University of York Mumbai is set to welcome students from the academic year 2026/27. It will initially offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in computer science with AI and cybersecurity, business, economics, and creative industries.

About the Role:

The Chief Academic Services Officer will lead a wide spectrum of academic services critical to research and student success and well-being, including research placements, career services, library and learning resources, mental health support, wellness, research support and campus welfare. To enable these they will provide leadership for developing external partnerships and industry engagement, as the basis for the relevant academic services. They will also create strong ties with regulatory bodies and external partners. 

This role is pivotal in shaping a cohesive, inclusive, and future-focused student services ecosystem that aligns with the university’s vision and supports the holistic development of its learners.

Candidates will be experienced leaders within the sector and bring an innovative and pragmatic approach to the delivery of professional services in a university setting. They will possess an empathy and understanding of the varying needs of students and academics in pursuit of academic work in a research rich environment. This will be combined with a deep appreciation of a learned environment with its associated decision making complexities

Key Requirements:

• Postgraduate Degree and Professional Qualification or Equivalent
• Proven Senior Leadership: Over 10 years of leadership experience in higher education, student affairs, or corporate engagement roles, with a track record in strategic planning and organisational leadership
• Experience in developing strong partnerships, including with industry
• Proven success in developing scalable, student-centered services and managing complex stakeholder networks
• Background in international education, transnational campuses, or global student support services
• Strong understanding of Indian regulatory frameworks, cultural dynamics, and youth development contexts
• Empathetic leader with a talent for mentoring and motivating cross-functional teams

Committed to a Diverse and Inclusive Future:

We welcome applications from talented individuals of all backgrounds, irrespective of caste, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, or any other characteristic. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the rich diversity of India and the world, and where everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute to our shared success.

Please direct process or systems enquiries to careers@daskalos.com and for enquiries specific to the role please contact mumbai@york.ac.uk.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork