At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technology strategy and implementation to support company goals.
- Company: AlphaPlus is a global leader in qualifications and assessments, part of the AQA group.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and a profit-related bonus scheme.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team, drive innovation, and make a real impact in education technology.
- Qualifications: Extensive IT experience, leadership skills, and a strategic mindset are essential.
- Other info: Permanent, full-time role with opportunities for national and international travel.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
AlphaPlus is globally recognised for excellence in the design, development and deployment of qualifications and assessments, and in the evaluation of their performance and impact. We work with schools, universities and professional organisations. AlphaPlus is a member of the AQA group.
We currently have an exciting new opportunity for a dynamic individual to join our company as Director of Technology. They will be a member of the AlphaPlus Management Board and will be responsible for developing and implementing a strategic technology plan which underpins and supports the wider company strategic goals. In doing so the ideal candidate will utilise their extensive experience in IT implementation, management and proven ability to enhance technological performance to support organisational goals. They will be an innovative, creative and commercially-focused individual who keeps abreast of technological developments. They will act as line-manager for and work closely with the deputies/heads of functions.
The appointed person will be dynamic and inspirational, with:
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
- Inquisitive, able to think strategically, with analytical capabilities.
- Proactive in finding out information within and outside the company relevant to the role.
- Excellent problem solving and decision-making abilities.
- Commerciality: participating actively and willingly in activities to generate new business.
- Creative and innovative in approaching the winning of new work.
- Excellent team leadership skills with ability to set technological vision and strategy for the organisation, engage and enthuse colleagues and drive the organisation forward.
- Customer service: communicating effectively with external and internal customers.
- Excellent time management and organisational skills.
- Financially literate with an understanding of how to manage finances on a corporate scale.
They will have the following professional/technical competencies and relevant experience:
- Expertise as IT/software practitioner, manager, and leader.
- Expertise in IT architecture, including databases and scalable technology platforms.
- Skills in strategic planning, project management, and budget management.
- Strong knowledge of IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, data management, software development, and emerging technologies.
- Skills in change management, process improvement, and team development.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical capabilities.
- Demonstrable experience as IT/software practitioner, manager, and leader.
- Demonstrable experience of leading on strategic technology initiatives.
- Demonstrable experience of managing software developers and third-party vendors.
- Demonstrable experience of acting as technical authority in previous roles.
- Substantial experience of delivering the technology related components of projects.
- Demonstrable experience of line management and team leadership.
- Demonstrable contribution to strategic vision, business planning and finances.
- Experience in education sector advantageous.
AlphaPlus currently has a core team of 66 staff primarily based in our Manchester head office, and in addition draw upon a team of approximately 800 associates. The post is permanent, full-time working 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday and is Manchester office-based. The company offers hybrid working (two days per week minimum in the office, with three days working at home). A relocation package is available if appropriate. The role will involve national and occasional international travel, potentially including working in customer offices.
Benefits include:
- Discretionary profit related bonus scheme
- NEST workplace pension scheme – tier 1
- Enhanced sick pay cover
- Enhanced maternity/parental leave
- 25 days paid leave plus the eight statutory bank holidays
- Commitment to developing the expertise of our employees.
Interviews provisionally scheduled to take place: Wednesday 22nd January 2025.
Please note that AlphaPlus is not licensed to offer sponsorship under the UK government's skilled worker sponsorship scheme.
To apply: The full job description and person specification are available on the AlphaPlus Opportunities pages of the website. Please read the application instructions located there and submit the following by the published closing date:
- A fully completed application form (download)
- A covering statement meeting the brief set out in the application instructions
- An up-to-date CV, tailored to highlight relevant qualifications and experience.
AlphaPlus jobs are based on competencies, which are published in the job description. When completing the covering statement, you are requested to set out how you meet the competencies relevant to this role, limiting this to no more than the five most important competencies. Please include how you meet the most important personal attributes and your most significant relevant experience.
Director of Technology employer: Alpha Plus Ltd
Contact Detail:
Alpha Plus Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Technology
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education and technology sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or leaders from AlphaPlus. Building these connections can give you insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest technological trends and innovations, especially those relevant to the education sector. Being able to discuss recent developments during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership experience by thinking of specific examples where you've successfully led technology initiatives. Highlight how you managed teams and projects, as this will be crucial for the Director of Technology position.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with AlphaPlus's mission and values. Tailor your discussions to reflect how your personal and professional goals align with theirs, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the company culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Technology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Director of Technology position. Familiarise yourself with AlphaPlus's mission and values to align your application with their goals.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV specifically for this role by highlighting relevant experience in IT management, strategic planning, and team leadership. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your CV resonates with the hiring team.
Craft a Compelling Covering Statement: In your covering statement, focus on the five most important competencies mentioned in the job description. Provide specific examples of how your experience aligns with these competencies and demonstrate your problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written and spoken communication skills are crucial for this role, ensure your application is well-structured and free of errors. Use clear and concise language to convey your ideas effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alpha Plus Ltd
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a Director of Technology, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare to discuss how you've developed and implemented technology plans in previous roles that align with broader organisational goals.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed projects. Discuss your approach to team development and how you inspire colleagues to engage with the technological vision.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to tackle hypothetical scenarios during the interview that test your problem-solving skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Stay Updated on Technological Trends
Show your passion for technology by discussing recent developments in the field. Be prepared to talk about how these trends could impact the education sector and how you would leverage them at AlphaPlus.