Direction jobs in United Kingdom

Contract type: Permanent

Location: Manchester, Milton Keynes or London

Salary: North: .00 South: .00

Working arrangements: Hybrid - typically two days in your base office with regular travel to other AQA sites for collaboration and innovation.

Join AQA at a pivotal moment for education. This brand‑new role comes as we position ourselves for global growth and respond to government curriculum reform. Importantly this is not part of our traditional General Qualifications (GQ) portfolio – you'll lead innovation beyond GCSEs and A-levels, creating new products for emerging markets and diverse learners.

You’ll define AQA's next chapter in assessment, build a department from the ground up and lead a new team of five specialists to deliver innovative products and embed best practice.

As Head of Assessment Products you’ll set the direction for a diverse portfolio of assessment products ensuring they meet the needs of learners and support AQA's ambitious growth plans. You’ll play a key role in connecting teams, driving operational excellence and delivering on AQA's mission to support education for all.

To achieve this you’ll work across multiple AQA sites, building relationships and fostering collaboration to embed best practice and generate innovative solutions. While we encourage two days a week in your base office, the role will involve regular travel to other locations to collaborate with colleagues and lead innovation.

• Leading the strategic management and development of assessment products beyond traditional GQ qualifications, ensuring alignment with AQA's goals and market needs.
• Building and embedding a high‑performing collaborative team from the ground up.
• Driving innovation and exploring new product ideas beyond traditional assessments, including integrated learning and assessment solutions.
• Engaging and influencing internal and external stakeholders to secure buy‑in and support delivery and growth.

• Proven experience in product development and management within education or assessment – this is essential.
• Demonstrable people‑leadership skills with a track record of building and developing high‑performing teams.
• Excellent communication and influencing abilities with experience working in complex matrix environments.
• Commercial acumen and the ability to balance strategic priorities with operational delivery.
• A collaborative mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement.

• Impact: Play a visible role in shaping the future of innovative assessment products.
• Flexibility: Hybrid working plus opportunities to travel across AQA locations to collaborate and innovate.
• Generous Leave: 25 days rising to 30 with service, plus voluntary service days and discretionary leave over Christmas and New Year.
• Wellbeing Support: Access to staff networks, mental health resources, BUPA healthcare and a supportive inclusive culture.
• Pension: Up to 11.5% employer pension contributions.
• Professional Growth: Work alongside policy experts, researchers and product leaders in a forward‑thinking environment.

At AQA we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation or background, is valued, respected and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Submit your CV and cover letter by Sunday 7th December 23:59.

• Stage 1: Phone screening with Recruitment Lead
• Stage 2: Virtual interview via Teams – Friday 12th December 2025
• Stage 3: Face‑to‑face interview in London – Thursday 18th December 2025

Interviews will include a structured discussion and a task relevant to the role.

We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place. Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees.