At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the LSE Cities Centre, managing operations, finance, and stakeholder relationships.
- Company: Join LSE, a top university dedicated to tackling urban challenges through research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and excellent training opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of cities while working in a dynamic, inclusive environment with global impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in administration, team leadership, budget management, and event organisation is essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 2 July 2025; late submissions won't be accepted.
The predicted salary is between 53204 - 61201 £ per year.
LSE is committed to building a diverse, equitable and truly inclusive university. LSE Cities is an international centre at the LSE that is dedicated to investigating the complexities of the contemporary city. Our work champions a better future for cities through world-leading research, innovative education, advisory, capacity building and public engagement. We focus on critical urban challenges, from climate change and inequality to technological disruption, collaborating with global partners to influence policy and practice.
The Centre Manager is a key member of LSE Cities’ senior management team, working closely with and reporting directly to the Executive Director. The post holder will play a critical role in shaping the development and strategic direction of LSE Cities. They will have operational and administrative responsibility for:
- Finance
- Human resources
- Procurement
- Space and facilities
- Future funding applications
- Administration
- Events organisation
They will oversee the relationship with important stakeholders, including the Advisory Board, Governing Board, and Management Committee. The Centre Manager will act as the main administrative interface between the Centre and external institutions, funding bodies, and government agencies, as well as administrative bodies, Research Centres, Departments, and Divisions across the School. The Manager has direct responsibility for the management of centre-wide Professional Services Staff (PSS) team and also has overall responsibility for all HR processes relating to staff and visitors, including academic, research, and policy staff.
Candidates should have substantial relevant administrative experience, preferably in Higher Education, and have demonstrable team leadership and staff line management experience. Candidates should also have substantial experience with budget management and planning as well as experience of organising, managing and delivering public events.
We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave, hybrid working, and excellent training and development opportunities. For further information about the post, please see the how to apply document, job description and the person specification. To apply, please visit our website via the button below. If you have any technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the “contact us” links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page. Should you have any queries about the role, please email lse.cities@lse.ac.uk. The closing date for receipt of applications is 2 July 2025 (23.59 UK time). Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.
Contact Detail:
LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE Recruiting Team
lse.cities@lse.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Centre Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with LSE Cities' current projects and initiatives. Understanding their focus areas, such as climate change and urban inequality, will help you demonstrate your alignment with their mission during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the higher education sector, particularly those involved in urban studies or related fields. Attend relevant conferences or seminars to make connections that could provide insights into the role and potentially support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in budget management and event organisation in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed finances or coordinated events, as these are crucial aspects of the Centre Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the key stakeholders mentioned in the job description, such as the Advisory Board and Governing Board. Understanding their roles and how they interact with the Centre can give you an edge in demonstrating your readiness to manage these relationships effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Centre Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Centre Manager position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant administrative experience, team leadership, and budget management skills. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to manage operations and engage with stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for urban challenges and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Make sure to connect your experiences to the mission of LSE Cities.
Proofread and Submit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that all required documents are included and that your application is submitted before the deadline.
How to prepare for a job interview at LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of the Centre Manager. Be prepared to discuss how your previous experience aligns with the operational and administrative duties outlined, such as finance management and event organisation.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Centre Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong team leadership and staff management abilities. Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully led a team or managed projects, highlighting your approach to motivating and developing staff.
✨Familiarise Yourself with LSE Cities
Research LSE Cities and its mission to address urban challenges. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their strategic direction, especially in areas like climate change and inequality.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Since the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, think about your experience in managing relationships with external institutions and funding bodies. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated these interactions in the past.