Ajman University is one of the UAE's leading higher education institutions and among the fast-rising universities in the region. Established in 1988 as the first private university in the GCC, the University has evolved into a globally recognised, non-profit institution distinguished by its commitment to academic excellence, research, innovation and societal impact. Ranked among the world's top 400 universities, #12 in the Arab Region and #6 in the UAE, Ajman University continues to pursue an ambitious strategy centred on academic distinction, research intensity, internationalisation, sustainability and institutional excellence.

Ajman University's global standing is underpinned by internationally recognised institutional and programme accreditations. The University holds institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) in the United States and the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) in the United Kingdom, alongside prestigious programme accreditations including AACSB, ACPE, ADC International and ABET. Together, these reflect the University's adherence to rigorous international standards across teaching, research and institutional governance.

As Ajman University enters its next phase of institutional transformation, it seeks to appoint an outstanding strategic leader as its next Vice Chancellor for Financial and Administrative Affairs (VCFAA). Reporting directly to the Chancellor and serving as a key member of the University's executive leadership team, the VCFAA will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering the University's strategic priorities by ensuring the effective stewardship of its financial and administrative functions. 

The VCFAA is responsible for leading the University's operational and financial strategy across a broad portfolio encompassing finance, human resources, procurement, facilities and campus services, medical services, sustainability and enterprise activities. The role combines strategic leadership with institutional oversight, ensuring that the University's operations are efficient, resilient and aligned with its long-term ambitions. 

Working closely with the Chancellor and senior leaders across the University, the successful candidate will provide strategic counsel on institutional planning, financial sustainability, resource allocation and operational performance. They will lead initiatives that strengthen organisational effectiveness, optimise resource utilisation and support the delivery of an exceptional experience for students, faculty, staff and partners. 

The VCFAA will oversee the University's financial planning framework, including annual budgeting, long-term forecasting and investment strategies, while ensuring robust approaches to governance, risk management and regulatory compliance. The role will also provide leadership for major operational and capital initiatives that support the University's continued growth and development. 

The Candidate 

The successful candidate will bring substantial executive leadership experience gained within large and complex organisations. Experience within higher education or similar mission-driven institutions is highly desirable. 

Candidates should demonstrate:

• A Master's degree, MBA or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline.

• A significant track record of leading complex financial and administrative portfolios at an executive level.

• The ability to develop and execute institutional strategy and lead large-scale organisational and operational transformation.

• Strong financial and commercial acumen, including experience of budgeting, financial planning, investment oversight and resource optimisation.

• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering major strategic initiatives within complex stakeholder environments.

• Exceptional leadership, relationship-building and change management capabilities, with the credibility to influence at the most senior levels of an organisation.

• A commitment to operational excellence, good governance, ethical leadership and continuous improvement. 

This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the continued evolution of one of the region's leading universities and to play a defining role in shaping the next chapter of Ajman University's institutional success. 

For informal inquiries please contact Githanjali Pannikar at Githanjali.Pannikar@perrettlaver.com  

Applications should consist of a covering letter, full CV detailing academic and professional qualifications, employment history, latest remuneration and relevant achievements. 

Closing date for applications is 28 August 2026 at 09:00 GST. 

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