Business and Operations Manager

Could you be our next Business and Operations Manager, leading a team of dedicated staff who facilitate delivery of programmes of research activities, knowledge exchange, and events for the mathematical sciences community? This is a unique opportunity within the University for an experienced and enthusiastic Business and Operations Manager to join the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences (INI).

About us

The INI is a renowned national and international visitor research centre running long-term programmes on selected themes, with applications in a wide range of societal, scientific and technological areas. It attracts over 3,000 leading scientists per year, both from the UK and from overseas, to interact on research over extended periods. The Institute has seen a significant period of change and development since the pandemic, with new funding streams and initiatives, which makes this an exciting opportunity for the successful candidate.

The role

As our Business and Operations Manager, you will be responsible for managing the Institute in terms of financial organisation, HR responsibility, planning of programmes and events, and grant applications. You will work closely with the Institute Director and Deputy Director, to ensure the smooth running of the Institute, and lead the administrative staff to provide high quality support for the delivery of the research programmes and associated events.

What you will need

To thrive in this role, you should have significant administration and line management experience, coupled with detailed knowledge of finance and HR procedures, and experience of implementing new strategies. Excellent oral and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills are vital, including the ability to liaise confidently with staff, academic visitors, and other stakeholders at all levels. You will be educated to at least a first degree level (or equivalent), ideally with experience of HE administration. Additional information regarding the role may be found within the Further Information document via the link below.

In return, you will receive an extensive reward/benefit package including:

• 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Excellent benefits including a generous pension scheme, discount portal, cycle to work scheme, access to the University accommodation service, employee assistance programme, family-friendly policies along with many more
• Potential for hybrid working
• Extensive Personal & Professional Development opportunities and University training courses

How to apply

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

Your CV, along with a covering letter, should clearly set out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the skills and experience required for the role) including relevant examples (see Further Information document). Candidates will be shortlisted based upon these criteria.

Conversations about flexible working are encouraged at the University of Cambridge. Please feel free to discuss flexibility prior to applying (using the contact information below) or at interview if your application is successful.

Informal enquiries about the role are welcomed and should be directed to Prof Ulrike Tillmann, Institute Director (director@newton.ac.uk).

Enquiries about the application process can be directed to Lianne Sallows (institute-coordinator@newton.ac.uk).

Interviews are expected to be held on Friday 10th July 2026, with 13th July 2026 as a reserve date if required. (Subject to confirmation.)

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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