Using the case study of HSE University (Russian Federation), this article will focus on how professional development programmes can be used by universities to ensure transformations and achieve their goals. It will focus on the administrative (professional services) staff and how universities can develop and leverage their potential in order to encourage innovative problem-solving. First, it will explore what the current challenges and frequent transformations mean for academic institutions in terms of administrative support, and what new demands emerge for administrators. Second, it will propose what competencies and skills are necessary for university administrators, so that they can provide effective support to the university in its ongoing activities and development under constantly changing conditions. Third, it will argue for the benefits of creating tailored professional development programmes, as well as illustrate how such a programme can be structured according to the institution's needs citing the empirical example of HSE University.