Jim Andrews: Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary
Biography
Jim joined the University in September 2025 from the University of Bedfordshire, where he was supporting the institution through transformation and change. Prior to that he was Chief Operating Officer at Bournemouth University for 14 years, where he led many professional services and academic teams. Jim also led the University’s transformation programmes, including the development and delivery of its £300m estates vision, major developments in digital technology and infrastructure, and significant cultural change aligned to the institution’s strategic plans.
With over 20 years’ experience in senior executive and board level roles in Higher Education and the NHS, Jim’s expertise includes service transformation, cultural and infrastructure development and governance.
Jim is a Chartered Director and Fellow of the Institute of Directors and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. He has been a member of a number of external boards as a Non-Executive Director, including the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, the Great South-West Partnership, Dorset Integrated Care Board and the Board of the UK Campus of Memorial University, Newfoundland.
Role
As Chief Operating Officer, Jim is responsible for a number of the Professional Services Divisions. Professional Services staff provide expertise across the University to support the delivery of our strategic aspirations. The Divisions aim to provide exceptional support to the Faculties, and services directly to students, alumni and staff, to other clients of the University, including the local and regional community, and to a range of partners, friends and supporters.
As University Secretary, Jim is Secretary to the University's Council and responsible for governance matters. Jim is a member of the University Executive Team and the University Leadership Forum, and chairs a number of University groups and committees.