Chief Executive Officer

Join to apply for the Chief Executive Officer role at Highlands & Islands Students' Association

Help shape the future for students across one of the most unique and diverse university partnerships in the UK. HISA is the democratic voice for learners right across the University of the Highlands and Islands. We represent students at every level—from further education and apprenticeships to undergraduate and postgraduate study—working with ten Academic Partners to ensure students are supported, included, and empowered wherever and however they learn.

About the role

We are seeking a strategic, values‑driven Chief Executive Officer to lead our staff team and enable our elected student leaders to deliver real impact across the region.

As CEO, you will:

• Provide strategic advice and support to our elected student officers in a dynamic, student‑led environment.
• Lead and develop a high‑performing Senior Leadership Team and wider staff body.
• Translate policy and strategy into clear, deliverable plans that improve the student experience.
• Act as the key interface between the Board of Trustees, student leadership, staff, and external stakeholders.
• Be a source of continuity and organisational stewardship, ensuring HISA remains focused, future‑ready, and effective.

Your impact

• Drive HISA’s vision and long‑term goals, ensuring our structures and culture enable student leaders to thrive.
• Build strong, collaborative relationships across UHI, aligning HISA’s progress with UHI strategy while championing independent student voice.
• Strengthen governance, risk management, compliance, and organisational performance.
• Ensure operational excellence, with clear priorities, robust delivery, and measurable outcomes for students.

What we’re looking for

• A strategic leader with experience of operating at CEO, Director, or equivalent senior level.
• Proven success in stakeholder management and partnership working, ideally across complex or federated organisations.
• Strong governance experience and confidence working with a Board.
• A track record of turning strategy into operational delivery with clear impact.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the power of student‑led change.
• Experience in students’ unions, education, membership bodies, charities, or civic organisations is welcome but not essential.

Core responsibilities

• Strategic leadership
• Senior Leadership Team (SLT) management
• Operational management
• Student leadership and governance

Why HISA?

• A mission‑led role with genuine reach and purpose across the Highlands and Islands and beyond.
• The chance to work in partnership with diverse learners and communities.
• A supportive Board and engaged student leadership, committed to positive change.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

To apply, please download the Recruitment Pack for the full Job Description and Person Specification.

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