Redundancy in higher education: how to navigate your next career move

Redundancy is unsettling at any stage of a career, and for professionals in higher education, it can feel particularly challenging given the unique structure and culture of the sector. Whether you worked in academic roles, administration, student services, or support functions, while many institutions are facing significant challenges, the skills developed within higher education remain highly transferable and valued across a wide range of organisations. This blog explores practical steps and strategies that can help you regain confidence, identify your next move, and stay connected to the sector you know well.

1. Take Stock of Your Skills and Achievements

Redundancy can make you doubt your value, but it’s important to recognise the breadth of expertise gained in higher education roles. Many employers value the experience higher education professionals bring in areas such as stakeholder management, working with complex regulations, change management, service improvement, partnership working, data and reporting, and student or customer experience.

• List your transferable skills: Think beyond your job title and consider the skills you use every day, such as managing competing priorities, interpreting policy, improving services, supporting students and colleagues, reporting on performance, or working across departments and external partners.
• Evidence your impact: Note examples where you improved processes, introduced efficiencies, supported change, strengthened compliance, enhanced the student experience, or used data to inform decisions. These will strengthen future applications.

It is also important not to assume redundancy reflects your performance or value. In many cases, decisions are driven by organisational priorities, restructuring or financial pressures rather than individual contribution. Taking time to separate the decision from your own sense of professional worth can make the next stage of your job search feel more manageable.

2. Consider Temporary or Contract Roles as a Bridge

One of the most practical routes post-redundancy is to explore temporary or fixed-term contract positions in higher education. Universities face cyclical demands and frequently require skilled staff at short notice. Temp roles offer:

• Flexibility and control – Ideal if you need breathing space before committing to something permanent.
• Diverse exposure – Opportunities to work in different departments, which can open new career paths within higher education.
• Networking opportunities – Building connections across institutions can lead to permanent roles in the future.

Temporary or contract roles can be a useful bridge after redundancy, but they will not be the right route for everyone. For some people, focusing on a permanent move straight away may offer the stability, structure and long-term direction they need.

3. Explore Adjacent Sectors That Value Your Experience

If you are open to working in other sectors, you don’t need to limit your search to higher education institutions alone. Skills from registry, compliance, research support, and student services roles are in demand across:

• Charities and non-profits – Especially for roles in governance, quality assurance, or programme delivery.
• Professional bodies – Membership organisations often seek people with insights into education policy and accreditation.
• Further education and training providers – These organisations appreciate higher education operational knowledge.

The ability to navigate regulatory frameworks, manage large data systems, and deliver excellent service positions you well for these environments.

4. Refresh Your Applications and Interview Readiness

If your last job move was several years ago, revisit the fundamentals:

• Update your CV for clarity and focus – Tailor it for each role, highlighting measurable achievements.
• Know the current higher education landscape – Familiarise yourself with topics such as funding models, student experience priorities, and digital transformation in education. Employers expect informed candidates.
• Prepare for competency-based interviews – Use the STAR method to help structure responses and prepare for your interview. Many universities favour this approach.

5. Prioritise Wellbeing and Stay Connected

Redundancy can be a difficult experience to process, and it is natural for a career transition to affect your confidence, routine and overall wellbeing. Give yourself time to adjust, and try to stay connected with people who understand your sector and experience. Reaching out to former colleagues, joining higher education sector LinkedIn groups and attending specialist events can help you rebuild momentum, access peer support and hear about opportunities that may not be widely advertised.

Final Thoughts

Many professionals who experience redundancy go on to build successful careers in new institutions, different sectors or roles they may never previously have considered. While the transition can feel daunting, it can also create opportunities that may not have been explored otherwise. By staying connected, recognising the value of your higher education experience and taking a considered approach to your next move, you can create a new chapter in your career that aligns with both your skills and your aspirations.

You can find further advice on navigating redundancy here.

If you’re facing redundancy and considering temporary opportunities or want personalised confidential advice on navigating a career transition, TPP’s Higher Education team is here to help connect you with roles that fit your goals. Call 020 7198 6090 or email education@tpp.co.uk