Subject Lead - Science in Manchester

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.

Contract type: Permanent

Location: Manchester, Milton Keynes or Guildford

Salary: Manchester £46,500–£53,300; Milton Keynes or Guildford £48,000–£55,500

Working arrangements: Hybrid – at least one day a week in the office, regular customer visits with national travel and occasional overnight stays.

Ready to lead with impact? This is your opportunity to take Science beyond the classroom and shape how thousands of teachers and students experience the subject. With assessment reform on the horizon, you will influence the future of education and make a national impact with AQA. You will be joining the market leader for Science at GCSE and A Level, supporting hundreds of thousands of learners each year. Combined Science is the most widely taken Science qualification, and the A Level portfolio spans Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Environmental Science.

We’re looking for someone who brings fresh ideas and perspectives to enhance our culture and thrives in an environment where priorities shift and adaptability is key.

Purpose of the role

You will lead the Science subject area, combining subject expertise with strategic leadership to strengthen customer engagement, influence product growth and deliver clear, measurable outcomes that demonstrate impact on engagement and growth in a competitive market. You’ll be a visible ambassador for AQA Science, building trust and confidence with diverse stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Setting and delivering measurable plans for Science that align with AQA’s strategy and reform priorities, with defined targets for engagement, retention and growth.
• Leading and developing a small team of Science specialists to build capability, foster collaboration and drive continuous improvement.
• Work closely with product and sales teams to provide customer insight for the business and support retention and growth of our market position across the science suite of qualifications.
• Designing and executing customer engagement strategies using insight and data, and representing AQA externally at conferences and stakeholder events.
• Building long-term relationships with schools and stakeholders.

You’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• Recent experience leading a Science department or equivalent, with a strong understanding of the GCSE and A Level syllabus and deep knowledge of Science specifications and assessment practice, with credibility among teachers.
• Proven leadership experience, including coaching and building team capability at scale.
• Commercial awareness and a customer-centric mindset, with examples of turning insight into action that delivers measurable outcomes.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, adapting your style under pressure and in ambiguous situations.
• Confidence in using data and metrics to define success, monitor progress and adjust plans at pace.
• Ability to engage and inspire stakeholders, building confidence with diverse audiences.

What’s in it for you

• A platform to influence education nationally and represent AQA at key events.
• Career development and professional growth in a leading education charity.
• Hybrid working and flexibility to support work-life balance.
• Comprehensive benefits including Bupa Health Insurance, Health Care Cash Plan, Life Assurance and an Electric Vehicle Leasing scheme, generous pension contributions up to 11.5% and 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas.
• A culture that values culture add, inviting new perspectives and innovative approaches to improve how we support teachers and students.

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.

Make your mark on Science education—join AQA and help shape the future.

Application process

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Application deadline: Sunday 8th February 2026

Short application questionnaire

Interview Process:

First stage: Teams Interviews with a pre-set scenario – Week Commencing 16th February 2026

Second stage: Face to Face in either Manchester or Milton Keynes with a presentation – Monday 24th or Tuesday 25th February 2026.

Onboarding expectations: The expected start date will align with teacher notice periods or earlier if feasible. Please note that an Enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful candidate. Successful candidates will be unable to maintain an Associate role with AQA or any other exam board.

Reference code: #CRE23

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.