At a Glance
- Tasks: Support senior management in strategic planning and project initiatives at the University.
- Company: Join a leading University with a commitment to innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a diverse working environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic academic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the University's strategic direction and reputation.
- Qualifications: Degree level education, strong organisational skills, and effective communication abilities.
The predicted salary is between 47389 - 56535 £ per year.
This is an excellent opportunity for the right individual to gain valuable career experience in a role that will make a direct and positive contribution at the highest level of the University. Based in our Old Aberdeen campus, you will be responsible for providing proactive and high-quality planning and project related services and support to senior University management across a number of key functions. This will include support to re-design and implement a new strategic planning process, to be applied institutionally, across Faculties, and within Directorates.
The postholder will also play a key role in enhancing the University’s risk management function, helping to drive the management of strategic risk while ensuring that risk management arrangements at both strategic and operational levels are fit for purpose and effective. In addition, a key part of this role will be managing strategic initiatives designed to drive institutional league table performance and reputation, among other responsibilities.
Across all of these areas, the post-holder will provide regular advice to senior colleagues, including the Director of Strategy, Planning, and Data Insights, the Provost, and the Vice-Principals, among others, on a range of issues related to the above.
Educated to degree level, you will be an ambitious, self-starting and enthusiastic team-player who can work effectively at every level of the University, and with key external partner organisations. You will have a strategic mindset and the ability to translate high-level strategic objectives into tangible activities at an operational and tactical level. You will demonstrate excellent organisational and prioritisation skills that will enable you to make a meaningful contribution across different projects and activities, and you will have excellent writing skills, with a requirement to draft reports for audiences like the Senior Management Team, and the University Court.
You will also be an effective communicator with excellent interpersonal skills; someone with the ability to build effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders across the University, including senior managers.
Salary will be at the appropriate point on Grade 7, £47,389 - £56,535 per annum, with placement according to qualifications and experience.
This role is based in the UK and as such the successful candidate will be required to live and work in the UK. The closing date for the receipt of applications is 1 October 2026. The Directorate of Strategy, Planning and Data Insights embraces a diverse working environment and recognises the many benefits this can bring. Applications from individuals from across all of the equality protected characteristics are encouraged.
Strategic Planning and Projects Officer, Directorate of Strategic Planning & Corporate Governance employer: Abdn
Abdn is an exceptional employer that prioritises the safety and well-being of its employees while fostering a supportive work culture. With comprehensive training provided in areas such as CCTV and emergency response, employees have ample opportunities for professional growth and skill development. The 24/7 shift pattern allows for flexibility, making it an ideal workplace for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Planning and Projects Officer, Directorate of Strategic Planning & Corporate Governance
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Planning and Projects Officer, Directorate of Strategic Planning & Corporate Governance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Leadership Skills:In the corporate leadership and management field, it's essential to highlight your leadership experience. Use your CV to flesh out examples of how you've led teams to success or managed significant projects. We want to see specific instances where your actions made a tangible difference in your previous roles!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers talk, especially in management! When detailing your achievements in your CV or cover letter, don’t just say you improved team performance. Instead, say you boosted productivity by 30% over six months through effective strategy implementation. This makes your application pop and shows us what you can bring to Abdn.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to narrate your professional journey. We’re looking for motivation and a clear understanding of what corporate leadership means to you. Dive into your aspirations and how they align with the values and vision of Abdn. Make it personal – we want to get to know you!
Tailor Your CV for Management Roles:Ensure your CV reflects the management skills that are essential for this role. Focus on competencies like strategic planning, team building, and problem-solving. Use a clean layout, and don’t forget to align your experiences with those keywords mentioned in the job listing. This will help you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Abdn
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
You’ll want to thoroughly convey your unique approach to leadership. During the interview with Abdn, be ready to share real-life examples of how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. Think about specific achievements that illustrate your strategic thinking and your ability to drive results.
✨Brush Up on Management Theories
Expect some technical questions related to management theories and practices. Brush up on concepts like transformational leadership, servant leadership, or situational leadership. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply these theories to the role at Abdn, especially in the specific context of the challenges they’re currently facing.
✨Craft Your Vision for the Company
Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for Abdn could really set you apart. Consider potential strategies for growth and how you would lead teams towards achieving them. This shows not just enthusiasm, but also strategic foresight that they’ll likely be looking for in a candidate.
✨Emphasise Team Dynamics and Culture
In corporate leadership, team dynamics and organisational culture are everything. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered a positive work environment in previous roles. Bring up examples of how you've managed diverse teams effectively—this will resonate well at Abdn as they’re likely seeking a candidate who can enhance their workplace culture.
