Strategic Head of School Operations

Newcastle University; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 59,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous holiday package

Option to buy more holidays

Great pension schemes

Health and wellbeing initiatives

Job summary

Newcastle University is seeking a strategic Head of School Operations to partner with the Head of School to deliver excellence across education, research and innovation. You will lead professional services within the School of Engineering, driving operational performance and continuous improvement to create an outstanding experience for students, staff and external partners.

You will manage a large, matrix‑structured team and collaborate with academic colleagues and business partners to achieve

Qualifications

• Experience in a large complex organisation, preferably in Higher Education.
• Ability to lead strategic planning and drive change initiatives.
• Proven budget management and financial control.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the effective operation of the School by directing day‑to‑day activities and delivering an exceptional operational environment.
• Drive delivery of the School's strategic and operational objectives through planning and execution.
• Shape and manage the strategic direction of the School, Faculty and University and forward‑plan the business cycle.
• Build and lead a high‑performing professional services team and coordinate matrix‑managed partners.
• Foster partnerships between professional services and academic colleagues to meet academic objectives.
• Lead continuous improvement in service quality, efficiency and resilience through evaluation and innovation.
• Lead strategic reviews and projects, identify risks, and translate insights into action.
• Ensure robust financial and resource management, including budget planning and expenditure control.
• Deliver major change initiatives and improve processes in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Strengthen the School's external reputation and professional brand.

Education

Degree or professional qualification in a relevant field

Job description

Newcastle University is seeking a strategic Head of School Operations to partner with the Head of School to deliver excellence across education, research and innovation. You will lead professional services within the School of Engineering, driving operational performance and continuous improvement to create an outstanding experience for students, staff and external partners.

You will manage a large, matrix‑structured team and collaborate with academic colleagues and business partners to achieve