50 University COOs and Operations Leaders Worldwide

Last updated: 11 August 2026

As of 11 August 2026, this is a current working list of 50 university COOs and closely related operations leaders.

University operations leaders keep the machinery of higher education moving. They help turn strategy into services, decisions into systems and institutional purpose into the experience people have on campus and online. The job is rarely one neat function. It can touch finance, people, estates, technology, governance, student services, risk and the everyday coordination that lets academics and professional teams do their best work.

This list brings together 50 university COOs and closely related operations leaders from institutions around the world. Some hold the exact Chief Operating Officer title. Others lead operations through a vice-president, registrar, secretary, administration or combined executive portfolio. The common thread is clear: each person is presented by their university as part of the senior work of running the institution.

The list is designed for university leaders, professional services teams, researchers, speakers, consultants and anyone trying to understand how operating responsibility is organised across higher education. It is not a league table. It is a starting point for learning, comparison and better questions about the systems that sit behind a strong university.

Why this topic matters

University operations matter because the academic mission depends on conditions that are easy to overlook. Timetables need to work. Buildings need care. Budgets need choices. Digital services need to be dependable. Students need support that feels joined up, and staff need structures that help them spend more energy on work that matters.

A senior operations leader often sees the connections between these pieces earlier than anyone else. That makes the role useful to study. The title may change from one institution to another, but the leadership challenge is familiar: create enough clarity for people to act, enough discipline for systems to hold, and enough flexibility for a university to keep learning.

The people below are included because their universities make that operating responsibility visible. Together, they show a broad pattern in higher education leadership. Operations is not background administration. It is part of how a university keeps its promises to students, staff, partners and the wider community.

50 university COOs and operations leaders

1. Todd Richardson

Chief Operating Officer, Indiana University

At Indiana University, Todd Richardson serves as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The portfolio connects university-wide operations with the practical systems that support teaching, research and student life. That makes Todd Richardson's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

2. John Kiralla

Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and CMO/CCO, Loyola Marymount University

John Kiralla is a useful example of the operating brief at Loyola Marymount University, where the role is listed as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and CMO/CCO. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role brings operating leadership together with the university functions that help the institution serve its community. That makes John Kiralla's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

3. Patrick Norton

Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Tulane University

The senior operating structure at Tulane University includes Patrick Norton as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The COO portfolio spans the services and operating choices that help a complex research university work well day to day. That makes Patrick Norton's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

4. David Green

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Georgetown University

For Georgetown University, David Green holds the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The university places this role close to the leadership of its shared services and institutional operations. That makes David Green's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

5. Elizabeth Béjar

Provost, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Florida International University

Elizabeth Béjar's role at Florida International University is Provost, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

This combined academic and operating remit shows how institutional priorities can be joined to the systems that deliver them. That makes Elizabeth Béjar's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

6. Chris Howard

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Arizona State University

At Arizona State University, Chris Howard serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role is built around the operating platform that supports a large, distributed university community. That makes Chris Howard's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

7. Steve Jones

Senior Vice President for Campus Operations and Chief Operating Officer, Towson University

Steve Jones is a useful example of the operating brief at Towson University, where the role is listed as Senior Vice President for Campus Operations and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The title makes the campus-facing nature of university operations especially clear. That makes Steve Jones's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

8. Peter Lange

Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President, Texas A&M University

The senior operating structure at Texas A&M University includes Peter Lange as Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role gives a clear window into the systems, services and campus choices that keep a major university moving. That makes Peter Lange's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

9. Rafael Martín

Vice President for Administration and Chief of Operations, University of Texas at Dallas

For University of Texas at Dallas, Rafael Martín holds the role of Vice President for Administration and Chief of Operations. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The administration and operations brief links institutional support functions with the university's wider mission. That makes Rafael Martín's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

10. David Hale

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, University of Richmond

David Hale's role at University of Richmond is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The business affairs setting shows how operating leadership sits alongside finance, people and campus stewardship. That makes David Hale's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

11. Joel Pogodzinski

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Marquette University

At Marquette University, Joel Pogodzinski serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role reflects the importance of integrating administrative services with a university's student and academic priorities. That makes Joel Pogodzinski's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

12. Russ Pinizzotto

Chief Operating Officer, Simmons University

Russ Pinizzotto is a useful example of the operating brief at Simmons University, where the role is listed as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The university's leadership structure places day-to-day operating work alongside its academic and student mission. That makes Russ Pinizzotto's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

13. Allia Carter

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Virginia Union University

The senior operating structure at Virginia Union University includes Allia Carter as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The appointment highlights how a COO can help align institutional administration with the needs of a focused university community. That makes Allia Carter's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

14. Richard Sobieray

Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Temple University

For Temple University, Richard Sobieray holds the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The portfolio places operational leadership at the centre of a large urban university's shared services and campus work. That makes Richard Sobieray's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

15. Andrea Marks

Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, The University of Texas at San Antonio

Andrea Marks's role at The University of Texas at San Antonio is Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The senior operating role links institutional execution with the needs of a growing public research university. That makes Andrea Marks's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

16. Kelly Fox

Executive Vice President for Operations, Finance, & Support, Rice University

At Rice University, Kelly Fox serves as Executive Vice President for Operations, Finance, & Support. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The portfolio combines operations, finance and support, making the relationship between resources and service delivery visible. That makes Kelly Fox's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

17. Shannon Cullinan

Executive Vice President, University of Notre Dame

Shannon Cullinan is a useful example of the operating brief at University of Notre Dame, where the role is listed as Executive Vice President. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The executive portfolio covers the institutional work that allows the academic mission and student experience to function together. That makes Shannon Cullinan's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

18. Geoff Chatas

Senior Vice President for Operations and Chief Financial Officer, Yale University

The senior operating structure at Yale University includes Geoff Chatas as Senior Vice President for Operations and Chief Financial Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The combined operations and finance role shows why university COOs often work across money, people, buildings and institutional priorities. That makes Geoff Chatas's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

19. Patrick O’Rourke

Chief Operating Officer, University of Colorado Boulder

For University of Colorado Boulder, Patrick O’Rourke holds the role of Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role provides a practical bridge between senior leadership decisions and the systems that make campus life possible. That makes Patrick O’Rourke's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

20. Amol Dani

Chief Operating Officer, NYU Abu Dhabi

Amol Dani's role at NYU Abu Dhabi is Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The business and administration portfolio demonstrates the global and cross-border character of modern university operations. That makes Amol Dani's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

21. Chris Hunt

Chief Operating Officer, University of Nottingham

At University of Nottingham, Chris Hunt serves as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role sits within the university executive structure and connects operational delivery with the wider institutional plan. That makes Chris Hunt's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

22. Andrea Walters

Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, University of Sunderland

Andrea Walters is a useful example of the operating brief at University of Sunderland, where the role is listed as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The combined title shows how operating leadership can be held close to academic and institutional direction. That makes Andrea Walters's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

23. Michelle Nuttall

Deputy Chief Operating Officer (Faculty Operations), University of Sheffield

The senior operating structure at University of Sheffield includes Michelle Nuttall as Deputy Chief Operating Officer (Faculty Operations). This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The faculty operations brief makes the connection between central services and the work of academic units especially clear. That makes Michelle Nuttall's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

24. Chris Twine

Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary, University of Warwick

For University of Warwick, Chris Twine holds the role of Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role combines operations with university governance, showing the value of clear decision systems in a complex institution. That makes Chris Twine's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

25. Ian Blachford

Chief Operating Officer, University of Staffordshire

Ian Blachford's role at University of Staffordshire is Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The executive listing places the COO role alongside the senior leaders responsible for the university's overall direction. That makes Ian Blachford's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

26. Uzma Khan

Chief Operating Officer and Vice Principal for Economic Development and Innovation, University of Glasgow

At University of Glasgow, Uzma Khan serves as Chief Operating Officer and Vice Principal for Economic Development and Innovation. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The portfolio links university operations with external engagement, development and innovation. That makes Uzma Khan's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

27. Becky Bradshaw

Deputy Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, University of Northampton

Becky Bradshaw is a useful example of the operating brief at University of Northampton, where the role is listed as Deputy Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role places operations within the senior team that turns institutional priorities into daily practice. That makes Becky Bradshaw's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

28. Gerry Greyling

Chief Operating Officer, Bournemouth University

The senior operating structure at Bournemouth University includes Gerry Greyling as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The executive team setting shows how operational leadership supports a university with a strong student and regional focus. That makes Gerry Greyling's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

29. Stephen Reid

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Chief Operating Officer, University of the Arts London

For University of the Arts London, Stephen Reid holds the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The combined academic and operating title reflects the need to connect creative education with dependable institutional systems. That makes Stephen Reid's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

30. George Turner

Chief Operating Officer, University of Roehampton

George Turner's role at University of Roehampton is Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role is part of the university's organisation and management structure, where service quality and mission must stay connected. That makes George Turner's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

31. Mike Shore-Nye

Senior Vice-President and Registrar & Secretary, University of Exeter

At University of Exeter, Mike Shore-Nye serves as Senior Vice-President and Registrar & Secretary. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The registrar and secretary portfolio shows how governance, administration and operations often meet in one senior university role. That makes Mike Shore-Nye's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

32. Nicola Owen

Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, University of Birmingham

Nicola Owen is a useful example of the operating brief at University of Birmingham, where the role is listed as Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The combined brief brings governance, administration and operations together at a major civic university. That makes Nicola Owen's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

33. Wendy Appleby

Vice-President (Operations), University of Southampton

The senior operating structure at University of Southampton includes Wendy Appleby as Vice-President (Operations). This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The operations title makes the institution-wide service and delivery side of senior university leadership visible. That makes Wendy Appleby's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

34. Aimie Chapple

Vice-President (Operations), University College London

For University College London, Aimie Chapple holds the role of Vice-President (Operations). This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The portfolio sits in the president and provost's team, linking operational choices with UCL's academic and public purpose. That makes Aimie Chapple's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

35. Katerina Kapobassis

Vice-President (Administration and Finance) and Chief Operating Officer, University of Melbourne

Katerina Kapobassis's role at University of Melbourne is Vice-President (Administration and Finance) and Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The administration and finance remit shows the scale of coordination needed across a major Australian university. That makes Katerina Kapobassis's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

36. Fiona Notley

Chief Operating Officer and Vice-President, RMIT University

At RMIT University, Fiona Notley serves as Chief Operating Officer and Vice-President. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role connects university operations with the practical delivery of RMIT's education, research and industry-facing work. That makes Fiona Notley's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

37. Glen Babington

Chief Operating Officer and Vice-President, University of Technology Sydney

Glen Babington is a useful example of the operating brief at University of Technology Sydney, where the role is listed as Chief Operating Officer and Vice-President. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The executive portfolio shows how operating leadership supports a large, urban and industry-connected university. That makes Glen Babington's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

38. Tobi Wilson

Vice President, Operations and Chief Operating Officer, UNSW Sydney

The senior operating structure at UNSW Sydney includes Tobi Wilson as Vice President, Operations and Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The title makes the operating portfolio explicit and positions it close to the university's senior decision-making. That makes Tobi Wilson's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

39. Mark Gregory

Chief Operating Officer and Registrar, University of Auckland

For University of Auckland, Mark Gregory holds the role of Chief Operating Officer and Registrar. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The registrar and COO combination brings operational delivery into the university's governance and leadership structure. That makes Mark Gregory's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

40. Stephen Willis

Chief Operating Officer, University of Otago

Stephen Willis's role at University of Otago is Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The COO portfolio provides a clear home for the services and systems that underpin the university's academic community. That makes Stephen Willis's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

41. Tina Wakefield

Chief Operating Officer, Victoria University of Wellington

At Victoria University of Wellington, Tina Wakefield serves as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The senior leadership page places the COO role within the university's broader governance and direction. That makes Tina Wakefield's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

42. Susie Roulston

Chief Operating Officer, Lincoln University

Susie Roulston is a useful example of the operating brief at Lincoln University, where the role is listed as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The organisational leadership structure shows how operations support a specialist university's purpose and community. That makes Susie Roulston's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

43. Jim Mercer

Chief Operating Officer, University of Waikato

The senior operating structure at University of Waikato includes Jim Mercer as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The university leadership portfolio links operational work with the institution's strategy, services and regional contribution. That makes Jim Mercer's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

44. Ana María Quiroga Rey

Chief Operating Officer, Complutense University of Madrid

For Complutense University of Madrid, Ana María Quiroga Rey holds the role of Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The role gives an international example of how a large public university organises its operational leadership. That makes Ana María Quiroga Rey's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

45. Botwe Kraziya

Chief Operating Officer, University of Venda

Botwe Kraziya's role at University of Venda is Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The appointment frames the COO role around institutional performance, service and a clear vision for university success. That makes Botwe Kraziya's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

46. Sandile Mthiyane

Chief Operating Officer, University of Pretoria

At University of Pretoria, Sandile Mthiyane serves as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The executive team setting shows how operating leadership fits into a large research university's senior structure. That makes Sandile Mthiyane's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

47. Czenthe Szabolcs

Chief Operating Officer, Corvinus University of Budapest

Czenthe Szabolcs is a useful example of the operating brief at Corvinus University of Budapest, where the role is listed as Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The executive committee context shows the COO role working alongside the university's formal leadership and governance bodies. That makes Czenthe Szabolcs's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

48. Ravishankar Kamath

Chief Operating Officer and Registrar, Trans-disciplinary University of India

The senior operating structure at Trans-disciplinary University of India includes Ravishankar Kamath as Chief Operating Officer and Registrar. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The registrar and COO combination reflects the close link between administration, governance and everyday operations. That makes Ravishankar Kamath's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

49. Richard van Huyssteen

Acting Chief Operating Officer, University of Cape Town

For University of Cape Town, Richard van Huyssteen holds the role of Acting Chief Operating Officer. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The acting appointment is a useful reminder that operational continuity matters during periods of leadership change. That makes Richard van Huyssteen's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

50. André Swart

Chief Operating Officer, University of Johannesburg

André Swart's role at University of Johannesburg is Chief Operating Officer, placing university operations close to senior institutional leadership. This is the kind of portfolio that sits between long-term direction and the small daily systems people notice when they work well. It asks a leader to hold the whole institution in view while still making practical choices about services, resources and priorities.

The profile places operational leadership within the executive work of a major South African university. That makes André Swart's work worth watching for anyone interested in higher education leadership. The useful question is not only what the title says, but how the operating brief helps teaching, research, student experience and community purpose reinforce one another.

Patterns across the list

Across the list, several patterns stand out. First, the title changes more often than the work does. Chief Operating Officer, Vice-President (Operations), Registrar and Secretary, and Executive Vice-President for Operations can all describe a senior leader who helps the institution coordinate its essential services. Reading the remit matters more than treating one title as the only valid label.

Second, operations is usually cross-functional. Finance, people, estates, digital systems, governance, student services and external partnerships appear in different combinations. The strongest operating structures make those links visible, so decisions do not move from one silo to another without a clear owner.

Third, the role is shaped by place. A global university, a specialist institution, a civic university and a residential campus may need different operating choices. The common leadership task is still to create dependable conditions for people to do good work.

Finally, many roles sit close to the president, vice-chancellor, provost or executive committee. That is a useful signal. Operations is not only about keeping the lights on. It is about helping the institution decide what to protect, what to improve and what to stop doing.

How to use this list

Use this list as a map, not a script. If you are studying a university, start by looking at the title, the reporting line and the portfolio around the role. Then ask what the institution appears to value: student services, financial stewardship, campus development, academic support, governance, digital delivery or a blend of several.

If you lead professional services, compare the language used by institutions with a similar mission or size. Notice where operations is joined to finance, governance, academic leadership or external engagement. Those combinations can help you frame a better internal conversation about ownership and decision-making.

If you are planning a leadership event, use the names as a prompt for discussion rather than a list of people to copy. Ask what makes an operating role credible in your setting, where decisions get stuck, and which systems would make Monday morning easier for staff and students. For practical team alignment work, see facilitated team offsites. For a shared language about how people contribute, read the Working Genius FAQ.

FAQs

What does a university COO do?

A university COO helps coordinate the systems and services that support the institution. The exact remit varies, but it often includes operations, finance, people, estates, technology, governance or student-facing services.

Is a registrar the same as a COO?

Not always. Some universities separate the roles. Others combine registrar, secretary and operating responsibility in one senior portfolio. The source wording and reporting structure matter.

Why do university operations titles vary so much?

Universities have different histories, governance models and leadership designs. The title reflects local choices, while the underlying work often involves similar coordination across the institution.

How should I use this list?

Use it to compare role designs, find official leadership pages and frame better questions about how university services connect to mission. It is a starting point, not a ranking.

Conclusion

University COOs and operations leaders work in the space where institutional ambition meets everyday reality. Their decisions shape whether strategy becomes a service people can use, a campus people can trust and a culture where good work is easier to do.

The 50 leaders in this list show that there is no single blueprint. There are different titles, different combinations of responsibility and different local contexts. The shared lesson is that operations deserves a clear place in the leadership conversation.

If this list helps you see your own university more clearly, use it to start one practical conversation. Which system is creating friction? Who owns the decision? What would make the next week work better for students and staff?

Related Reading

For related practical reading, explore Working Genius FAQ, Facilitated team offsites and Choosing a high-stakes keynote speaker.

About the author

Jonno White is a Brisbane-based leadership consultant, keynote speaker and Certified Working Genius Facilitator, and the author of Step Up or Step Out. He works with schools, corporates and nonprofits around the world. To enquire about a keynote, workshop or facilitated leadership session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.

Enquire about a keynote or workshop

To enquire about a keynote, workshop or facilitated leadership session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.