At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive the development of innovative digital assessment products that impact learners and educators.
- Company: Join AQA, the UK's largest provider of academic qualifications, committed to advancing education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on the future of education through technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in product ownership and strong collaboration skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 52763 - 58913 € per year.
At AQA, we’re committed to advancing education and we’re committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it’s our people who make this happen.
You’ll join AQA at a pivotal moment as we reshape the future of digital assessment at a national scale. Our work underpins GCSEs and A‑levels across the country, meaning the products you help deliver have a real and immediate impact on learners, teachers and schools. You’ll be part of a world‑leading education organisation that’s investing in modern, resilient and accessible digital assessment solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing team that’s helping to define how assessment evolves for years to come.
Purpose of the role
You’ll play a central role in developing digital products that directly support teachers and schools, ultimately improving outcomes for learners. As part of the rapidly expanding Assessment Technology team, you’ll help deliver mission‑critical systems that sit at the heart of AQA’s strategic transformation. You’ll work closely with cross‑functional teams to shape solutions that are reliable, intuitive and grounded in real user needs. You’ll also contribute to AQA’s responsible approach to innovation, particularly around AI, ensuring that new technology enhances the assessment experience in an ethical and sustainable way.
Key responsibilities
- Prioritising and managing the product backlog to deliver meaningful outcomes.
- Working closely with development teams to provide clear, actionable user stories and requirements.
- Maintaining a strong understanding of user needs and incorporating feedback into product improvements.
- Partnering with stakeholders to align delivery with organisational strategy and goals.
- Supporting sprint planning, refinement and release activities to ensure high‑quality delivery.
What we are looking for
You’ll thrive here if you enjoy collaborating with cross‑functional teams and delivering meaningful outcomes in a technology‑focused environment.
- Strong understanding of product management within a software or technology context.
- Confidence working with cross‑functional teams and technical stakeholders.
- Ability to plan, organise and prioritise effectively.
- A collaborative mindset with a focus on delivering value.
What’s in it for you
- You’ll join a collaborative team built on autonomy, trust and shared purpose, with opportunities to shape the future of digital assessment.
- Meaningful impact through work on nationally significant digital assessment systems.
- Opportunities for career progression within a growing function.
- 25 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas.
- A 35-hour working week with flexible working arrangements.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme (6%–11.5% depending on your contribution).
- Life assurance, BUPA PMI, and health cash plan.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity schemes.
Diversity and Inclusion Statement
At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone—regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background—is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Application Process
To apply, please submit your CV along with a short cover statement outlining your interest.
Application deadline: Monday 1st June 2026
Interview process:
- Stage 1: Microsoft Teams interview
- Stage 2: Face-to-face interview at our Manchester or Milton Keynes office
Recruitment Agencies
We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place. Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees.
Product Owner in Manchester employer: AQA Education
At AQA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to make a meaningful impact in the education sector. With a strong focus on professional growth, we provide ample opportunities for career progression within our rapidly expanding Assessment Technology team, alongside generous benefits such as flexible working arrangements, a comprehensive pension scheme, and enhanced leave policies. Join us in Manchester or Milton Keynes to be part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to reshaping digital assessment for learners and educators across the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Owner in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education and tech sectors, especially those who work at AQA or similar organisations. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections and learn more about the company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interviews by understanding AQA's mission and values. Think about how your experience as a Product Owner aligns with their goals in digital assessment. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed product backlogs and collaborated with cross-functional teams. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the AQA team and contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Owner in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Owner role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with AQA's mission and the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Statement:Your cover statement is your chance to shine! Keep it concise but impactful, explaining why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a great fit. Remember, we love seeing genuine enthusiasm for education and technology.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:Since this role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, make sure to highlight any past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others. We value teamwork and want to know how you can bring that spirit to AQA!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our team at AQA. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at AQA Education
✨Know Your Product Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand AQA's mission and the specific products they offer. Familiarise yourself with their digital assessment solutions and think about how your experience as a Product Owner can contribute to their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed product backlogs or collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver results.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
AQA values collaboration, so be ready to discuss how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders in previous roles. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to align product delivery with organisational strategy and manage expectations.
✨Emphasise Your Agile Experience
Since the role involves working in an agile environment, be prepared to talk about your familiarity with Agile methodologies. Share specific instances where you've contributed to sprint planning, refinement, and release activities to ensure high-quality delivery.
