Head of Operations

We are proud to be partnering with a globally recognised higher education institution, who are looking to appoint a Head of Operations to join a high-profile, externally funded leadership initiative on a initial 12-month fixed-term basis, with a further 24-months available after that.

The salary bracket on offer is £53,949 - £62,160, with the potential to progress to £69,073 and an annual cost of living increase from 1st August 2026.

Our client is an internationally renowned university with an outstanding reputation for research, education and public policy.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading the operational delivery of an ambitious European programme that brings together city leaders, academics and strategic partners to tackle urban challenges, promote innovation and develop future civic leadership.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced operational leader to join a collaborative and purpose-driven environment where they will have significant influence over the delivery, governance and long-term success of a flagship international initiative.

Duties will include (but are not limited to):

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• Leading the operational strategy, infrastructure and business continuity of the programme
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• Providing oversight of governance, compliance, financial management and risk
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• Managing programme budgets, forecasting and resource planning
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• Leading and developing the operations function to deliver a high-performing service
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• Building strong relationships with senior stakeholders, funding bodies and external partners
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• Driving continuous improvement across operational systems and processes.
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• Supporting the successful mobilisation of new projects and programme initiatives
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Experience required:

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• Extensive operational leadership experience within a complex organisation, ideally higher education, research or the public sector
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• Experience overseeing large-scale, multi-stakeholder programmes.
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• Strong background in financial oversight, governance and compliance
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• Experience managing and developing high-performing teams
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Skills, knowledge and expertise required:

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• Exceptional organisational and leadership skills
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• Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building abilities
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• Strong commercial and financial awareness
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• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
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• Ability to balance strategic priorities with operational delivery
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Rewards and Benefits:

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• Hybrid working arrangements
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• Excellent pension and annual leave package
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• Outstanding learning and development opportunities
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• Opportunity to contribute to an internationally recognised programme with meaningful societal impact
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Please note that you will require recent, relevant experience to be considered for this opportunity.

James Andrews Recruitment Solutions is acting as an employment agency and business in relation to this role.

Whilst we endeavour to respond to every application individually, due to the high volume of applications received this is not always possible. If you have not heard from us within 72 hours, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Don't forget our recommendation scheme – recommend a friend or colleague and receive up to £250 once they have completed 20 days in a role via James Andrews. Terms and conditions apply.