Chief Operating Officer ( Higher Education) | International University Setting up Campus in India

Location : Mumbai / Bengaluru / Delhi

Role Overview

The Chief Operating Officer(COO) will lead the India operations of a

foreign university establishing its first campus in the country.

This strategic leadership role entails overseeing the full spectrum of institutional functions—ranging from academic operations and financial management to regulatory compliance and stakeholder engagement. The COO will ensure alignment with the parent university’s global vision and standards, while driving operational excellence, sustainable growth, and a transformative educational experience for students.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadershi p Develop and execute a comprehensive campus strategy in alignment with the university's global mission, ensuring long-term growth, academic distinction, and market relevance

Operational Oversigh t Lead day-to-day campus operations, including administration, student services, infrastructure, and faculty recruitment, ensuring efficiency and high-quality service deliver y.

Financial Stewardshi p Formulate and manage annual budgets, optimize resource allocation, and drive financial sustainability while maintaining accountability and transparenc y.

Academic & Regulatory Complianc e Ensure full compliance with Indian higher education regulations as well as internal academic policies and quality benchmarks set by the foreign University

Partnership Developmen t Cultivate and manage strategic partnerships with industry leaders, academic institutions, and government bodies to enhance academic relevance and employability outcomes

Student & Faculty Experienc e Champion student success through improved academic support, research opportunities, and campus life. Foster a culture of excellence and engagement among faculty and staff

Qualifications & Experience

Master’s degree in Business Administration, Education Management, or a related fie ld. A doctoral degree would be an advantage.

Minimum 15 years of leadership experience

in academic administration, higher education managem ent, or corporate strategy, preferably with exposure to both Indian and international education systems.

Proven expertise in navigating regulatory frameworks, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement at senior levels.

Demonstrated ability to lead large teams, manage complex operations, and drive measurable institutional outcomes.

Strong financial acumen, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative leadership style.