Head of Operations

Background

The School of Computer Science at the University of Birmingham is one of the leading UK institutions for research and teaching in computer science.  The School’s research is ranked 3rd across all UK universities, both in average score for publications and number of world-leading publications, according to the recent UK-wide Research Excellence Framework 2021.

The School is looking to recruit to the Head of Operations position. This is an exciting opportunity to lead and manage the School's operational Professional Services and to provide high quality support and guidance to the School's academic senior leadership. The Head of Operations will also work as part of a wider College Senior Operational team, contributing to the shared goals of the College's Professional Services.

Role Summary

The Head of Operations will be responsible for actively leading the delivery of a high quality, professional administrative function within the School of Computer Science. Heads of Operations are responsible for day-to-day, non-academic management and administration of a School to enable academic staff to complete their research, teaching and general academic duties. You will support the Head of School, members of the School management team and work with College staff, to shape and influence the strategic direction of the School. In line with these responsibilities, the Head of Operations will devise objectives, plans and strategies to respond to School, College and University aims, initiating and contributing to School, College and University projects, leading on these where appropriate.  You must therefore be able to demonstrate effective negotiation and influencing skills with the ability to balance competing agendas and priorities to reach an effective outcome. A strong analytical background is important, as is an ability to initiate and lead change.

You are expected to have a broad knowledge of the developments and challenges within the Higher Education sector, a solid understanding of good practice in delivering professional administrative and financial support and the ability to balance academic considerations as well as external drivers and priorities.

Person Specification

• Educated to degree standard and/or evidence of sustained continuing professional development appropriate for the capabilities required for and contribution from this role.
• Relevant significant operational experience in complex organisations, including but not exclusively, higher education
• Significant demonstrable people; financial and project management experience in a complex organisation
• Demonstrable experience of leading and managing teams of people across different areas

Informal enquiries can be made to Mark Jeffery, email: m.c.jeffery@bham.ac.uk 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the Apply button above.

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We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

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