Role Summary

The temporary Institute Manager is a senior professional services manager responsible for overseeing all operational support services for a research institute. The role requires close collaboration with the Institute Director to ensure effective service delivery that enables and adds value to the institute's core research and academic activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Lead the professional services, technical, and administrative functions to ensure efficient and professional support for all research, education, and knowledge transfer activities.
• Financial Management: Oversee the institute's budget, financial management, and resource optimisation, ensuring all operations comply with budgetary frameworks and policies.
• Strategic Support: Proactively assist the Institute Director in implementing the institute's scientific and operational strategies, providing oversight of performance and operations.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with professional services leads and business partners to ensure the institute's needs are met at all levels of the organisation.
• Compliance and Governance: Ensure the institute adheres to all statutory regulations and internal policies, maintaining effective governance structures.
• External Relations: Manage external relations initiatives and maintain working relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including funding agencies, government officers, and commercial companies.
• Team Management: Provide effective leadership and management for the professional services and technical teams, including line management for up to 6 senior direct reports and indirect responsibility for up to 30 staff.
• Facilities and Safety Oversight: Have overall responsibility for the management of buildings and facilities, including space planning and ensuring compliance with health and safety legislation.

Required Experience and Qualifications

• Recent proven experience in a senior administrative, operations, or management role within a higher education or research environment.
• Demonstrable experience in effective budgetary management and control of large, complex units.
• Recent proven experience with research funding principles, governance, and the preparation of research grant applications.
• Recent proven experience in recruiting, managing, and developing individuals, along with a strong understanding of employment law and HR policies.
• A minimum of a degree, with a preference for a PhD in a scientific discipline.
• Experience with project and change management is essential.