Head of Business Planning and Visitor Experience

The University of Manchester; Withington Green; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a Head of Business Performance to enhance financial sustainability and support strategic projects. The role involves business analysis, improving visitor experiences, and ensuring effective commercial activities such as retail and venue hire. The successful candidate will foster a collaborative environment and work closely with senior leadership to align with the strategic vision of the university. The position offers competitive pension and health benefits, plus flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Fantastic market-leading Pension scheme

Excellent health and wellbeing services

Exceptional annual leave entitlement

Additional paid closure over Christmas

Local and national discounts

Responsibilities

• Strengthen the Centre's financial sustainability through effective business analysis and commercial viability assessment.
• Lead improvements to the visitor experience and commercial activities, including cafes and venue hire.
• Foster collaboration and a high-performing working environment within the team.

Job description

We are seeking a commercially astute Head of Business Performance to strengthen the Centre’s financial sustainability, ensuring effective business analysis, commercial viability assessment, and income growth across our operations. The postholder will lead continuous improvements to the visitor experience, facilities management and commercial activities (cafes, retail offer and venue hire), and contribute to major projects, including capital development. As well, foster a productive, high‑performing working environment that supports collaboration and ongoing improvement. The Head of Business Performance will have a successful working relationship with the Director and senior colleagues in the Executive Leadership team, working to support the strategic vision and long‑term planning for the Centre. They will also ensure that JBCE participates in the life of the University of Manchester, contributing to its strategy "Manchester 2035".

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market‑leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit. Our University is positive about flexible working; you can find out more here. Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.