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- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives to drive financial sustainability and growth in Cultural Engagement.
- Company: Join the British Council, a global leader in arts, culture, and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £106K plus attractive benefits package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global cultural engagement and governance.
- Qualifications: Strong commercial acumen and proven experience in senior business strategy roles.
- Other info: Work with diverse teams globally and enhance the British Council's influence.
The predicted salary is between 84000 - 126000 £ per year.
The British Council is seeking an exceptional Director CE Business Strategy & Operations to provide strategic leadership across Cultural Engagement to drive financial sustainability and growth through specialist commercial expertise and business development governance, and to set and enable an effective and efficient operating environment to deliver the CE integrated global plan.
This is a critical role that will provide leadership and oversight for the CE Business Strategy & Operations team and associated network. Focusing on:
- Overall commercial sustainability, growth and bringing together different aspects of the CE annual planning, including the integrated income generation plan.
- Providing a Centre of Excellence for business development, contracting, project & programme management, evaluation and mainstreaming EDI and gender within programmes.
- Business analysis & proportionate reporting, assurance and standards.
- CE workforce and pipeline planning.
- Specialist practitioner support for Evidence, Evaluation and Learning (EEL), business development, contract management and EDI and gender mainstreaming.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy and/or Planning: Write the CE business plan, as part of the corporate plan, working with the Cultural Engagement Executive Team and other key stakeholders. As part of the annual planning process, lead on the development of a single CE integrated income generation plan. Lead the global CE business planning process including managing the preparation of business reviews, reviewing overall progress against financial and non-financial targets and driving continual improvement.
- Leadership & Management: Represent CE Business Strategy & Operations as part of the Cultural Engagement Executive Team and Grant In Aid board (or similar). Chair the CE contract and programmes approvals board and CE global leadership group regular meeting. Lead a direct team of approximately 65 colleagues globally within the CE Business Strategy and Operations team and provide indirect leadership of the wider CE operations and business development network globally. Provide strategic leadership and input to key priorities for the CE Business Strategy & Operations team within its areas of specialism.
- Business Development & Growth: Oversee the global opportunity pipeline and approvals process. Work with sector and regional leaders to grow, diversify and strengthen income streams.
- Stakeholder & External Relations: Represent CE with major funders and partners including FCDO, EU and multilaterals. Build strong relationships across CE and corporate functions to ensure aligned planning, data, technology and delivery. Enhance the visibility, reputation and influence of the British Council globally.
About You
- Strong commercial and business acumen, with the ability to operate in complex internal and external environments.
- Proven experience setting and delivering business strategy at a senior level.
- Track record of leading large-scale global initiatives, programmes or contracts with an established network of global strategic partners and funders.
- Demonstrated success in winning new business, partnerships or donor-funded opportunities.
- Experience leading complex donor or commercial negotiations.
- Strong record of managing senior relationships with external clients, funders, governments and partners.
- Significant experience leading diverse, geographically dispersed teams in an international organisation.
- Strategic leadership of multi-disciplinary teams across business, operations and delivery.
- Experience leading and embedding change at a global level.
- Solid knowledge of programme and project management, assurance frameworks, workforce planning and business continuity.
- Strong understanding of operating within a matrix organisation (people, process, platforms and performance).
- Experience leading a professional services or specialist function.
- Knowledge of international education and/or arts and culture, including geopolitical context.
- Additional language capability.
About the British Council
The British Council connects people and organizations around the world through arts, culture, education, and the English language. With a presence in over 100 countries, the Council reaches millions every year, making a positive global impact. This role sits at the heart of Cultural Engagement, shaping how the organisation grows its income, manages its commercial activity and delivers its global priorities through strong governance and effective operating models.
How to apply
Applications should be made before 8th February, 21.59 UK time. We are aiming to complete interviews in the week of the February 19th.
Director Cultural Engagement Business Strategy and Operations in London employer: British Council
Contact Detail:
British Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director Cultural Engagement Business Strategy and Operations in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Director CE Business Strategy & Operations. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Director Cultural Engagement Business Strategy and Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in business strategy and operations. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Leadership Experience: This role is all about leadership, so be sure to include examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to manage diverse teams and drive strategic initiatives.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and qualifications. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application 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 StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the British Council's mission and values, especially around Cultural Engagement. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led diverse teams and managed complex projects. Be ready to discuss your approach to strategic planning and how you've driven growth in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making process. Think about challenges you've faced in business development or contract management and how you navigated them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in building relationships with stakeholders, funders, and partners. Be prepared to discuss how you've enhanced visibility and influence in previous roles. This is crucial for the role, so think of specific examples where your engagement made a significant impact.
