At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to investigate and resolve complex education-related cases.
- Company: AQA, the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse workplace committed to continuous improvement and employee support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on fairness in education while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in team leadership and investigations, strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 72000 £ per year.
About the role
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. The Investigations Manager (Permanent) will be based in Manchester and will earn £64,000 – £72,000 and work in a hybrid environment.
What you will be doing:
- Lead a team of around 10 experienced investigators and support officers and oversee the delivery of malpractice and appeals casework from start to finish.
- Support and deliver high‑quality investigations work, leading and supporting a team to achieve high standards.
- Oversee complex and high‑profile cases, including emerging case types such as cyber‑related incidents.
- Use data and performance measures to track progress and keep cases moving.
- Act as a point of advice and escalation for your team.
- Represent AQA in appeals hearings, including with external bodies.
- Work with colleagues across AQA and the wider sector to improve operating processes.
- Help shape better ways of working through continuous improvement.
- Build a positive team environment, support development, and lead through change.
What’s in it for you:
You will do meaningful work that supports fairness in the education system, lead and develop a capable, specialist team and tackle complex, high‑profile cases. We offer a collaborative, values‑led working environment; 25 days’ annual leave (up to 30 with service), a 35‑hour working week with flexible arrangements; an excellent contributory pension scheme (6%–11.5% depending on your contribution); access to professional and personal development; and the opportunity to join a variety of employee networks.
What we’re looking for:
- Experience leading and developing a team.
- Background in investigations, ideally in a regulated, legal, policing or education setting.
- Comfortable making decisions and taking responsibility.
- Experience managing delivery using data and performance measures.
- Strong communication skills, including writing guidance and presenting in formal settings.
- Focus on continuous improvement and learning.
- Experience of cyber‑related investigations will be useful but is not essential.
Equal Opportunities
AQA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where every candidate is valued, respected, and supported to thrive regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background.
Investigations Manager in Manchester employer: AQA Recruiting
At AQA, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the education sector, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment in Manchester. Our commitment to employee development is reflected in our generous benefits package, including flexible working arrangements, extensive annual leave, and access to professional growth opportunities. Join us to make a meaningful impact in education while being part of a diverse team that values fairness and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Investigations Manager in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or related fields. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching AQA and its values. Understand their commitment to fairness in education and think about how your experience aligns with that. We want to see your passion for the role and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams and managed complex cases. Highlight your ability to support and develop others, as this is key for the Investigations Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining AQA and contributing to their mission of advancing education.
We think you need these skills to ace Investigations Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Investigations Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant investigations background to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about education and how your experience aligns with our mission at AQA. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage complex cases. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at AQA Recruiting
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into AQA's mission and values. Understand their role in education and how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you demonstrate your passion for advancing education and show that you're a great fit for the Investigations Manager role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience leading teams, especially in investigations. Prepare specific examples of how you've supported your team, tackled complex cases, and improved processes. Highlighting your ability to lead through change will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Data is Key
Since the role involves using data and performance measures, come prepared with examples of how you've successfully managed delivery using these tools. Discuss any metrics you've tracked and how they influenced your decision-making process. This will show your analytical skills and commitment to continuous improvement.
✨Practice Your Communication
Strong communication skills are essential for this role, especially when representing AQA in appeals hearings. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews or presenting your ideas to a friend to refine your delivery and ensure you can handle formal settings with ease.
