Head of Global Professional Development Operations

Cambridge University Press & Assessment (CUPA); Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 81,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days annual leave + bank holidays

Private medical and Permanent Health

Discretionary annual bonus

Group personal pension

Life assurance

Green travel schemes

Job summary

Cambridge University Press & Assessment in Cambridge combines academic publishing with global assessment services and seeks a Head of Professional Development Operations. The role leads end-to-end delivery of the Professional Development portfolio and scales operations globally.

The post holder reports to the Director of Professional Development, owning production, trainer recruitment, course management and booking support while fostering accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading complex operations or portfolios.
• Proven track record improving processes to scale revenue and outcomes.
• Expertise in programme/project management approaches (Agile/PMO).
• Experience managing budgets, forecasts and operational reporting.
• Experience in content production at scale and supplier management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the annual planning cycle and maintain a roadmap aligned with demand and commercial goals.
• Own end-to-end programme delivery against targets for reach, revenue and quality.
• Establish robust governance, manage risks and keep delivery on time and budget.
• Lead revenue forecasting, cost-efficiency planning and resource decisions.
• Prioritise initiatives across portfolio teams with clear business benefit.
• Use learner feedback and data to improve processes and performance.
• Ensure compliance with risk policies and regulatory requirements.
• Provide inclusive leadership and matrix coaching across global teams.
• Build strong internal and external relationships; be the main contact for escalations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Operational leadership

Budgeting & forecasting

Data analysis

Stakeholder management

Communication

Change management

Team development

Risk management

Education

First degree in business or operations management

PMO or project management certification

Tools

Agile

Scrum

Lean Change

Job description

Cambridge University Press & Assessment in Cambridge combines academic publishing with global assessment services and seeks a Head of Professional Development Operations. The role leads end-to-end delivery of the Professional Development portfolio and scales operations globally.

The post holder reports to the Director of Professional Development, owning production, trainer recruitment, course management and booking support while fostering accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.