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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations for vibrant student spaces and ensure excellent service delivery.
- Company: Join SUSU, a dynamic student-led organisation enriching student life.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, great pension, and travel perks.
- Why this job: Shape the student experience and drive continuous improvement in a lively environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational management and a recognised Health & Safety qualification.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values equality and promotes a positive workplace culture.
The predicted salary is between 43337 - 47325 £ per year.
The Role
This is a pivotal new role at SUSU, leading the operational delivery of our vibrant student spaces across our three buildings on Highfield Campus. As Head of Operations, you’ll ensure our facilities are safe, compliant, well‑maintained, and consistently deliver excellent service. You’ll oversee room bookings and reception, technical event support, transport operations, and sustainability initiatives, keeping services running smoothly across a busy and diverse programme of over 1,500 bookings each year. As SUSU’s lead competent person for Health & Safety, you’ll champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance across all activities, working closely with University stakeholders, contractors, and internal teams to drive continuous improvement. No two days are the same — this is a fantastic opportunity to shape and enhance the student experience at scale.
About You
- Significant experience in soft facilities or operational management, including contracts and service delivery
- A recognised Health & Safety qualification, with strong experience in compliance and risk management
- Proven track record of leading teams in fast‑paced, complex environments
- A confident communicator and problem‑solver, able to build strong stakeholder relationships
- Highly organised and analytical, with the ability to balance strategic planning and hands‑on delivery
About Us
We are the University of Southampton Students' Union (SUSU) – independent from the University and run by students, for students. Our vision is simple: SUSU is here to enrich the life of every student. We are a workplace that’s buzzing with life, ideas, and opportunities – where your work directly shapes the student experience.
Benefits
- Salary of £43,337 to £47,325
- Generous paid holiday – 30 days per year, plus eight closure days (around Easter, August and Christmas) on top of eight bank holidays and an opportunity to purchase up to an additional week of holiday.
- Great pension – we contribute 10% into your defined contributions pension scheme.
- Travel perks – discounted UniLink and Blue Star bus passes, a Cycle‑to‑Work scheme.
SUSU is an equal opportunities employer that values a diverse workforce and we want to reflect the student body that we represent. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination and will ensure that our recruitment activities are mindful of equality and diversity matters.
Head of Operations employer: Cyber Security Academy Southampton
Contact Detail:
Cyber Security Academy Southampton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at SUSU on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching SUSU’s values and recent initiatives. Show us how your experience aligns with our mission to enhance the student experience – we love it when candidates are passionate about what we do!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Think of examples from your past roles where you’ve tackled challenges head-on. We want to see how you handle pressure and keep things running smoothly.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant team at SUSU.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational management and health & safety. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Operations at SUSU!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you’ve led teams or improved processes in previous roles. We love seeing tangible results that demonstrate your impact!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our vibrant student community, so don’t be afraid to show us what makes you unique!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cyber Security Academy Southampton
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding SUSU's operational framework. Familiarise yourself with their facilities, services, and any recent initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Health & Safety Expertise
Since this role requires a strong focus on Health & Safety, be prepared to discuss your qualifications and experiences in detail. Bring examples of how you've successfully implemented safety protocols and improved compliance in previous roles. This will demonstrate your capability as the lead competent person for Health & Safety.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in leading teams in fast-paced environments. Share specific instances where you’ve motivated your team or resolved conflicts. This will illustrate your ability to manage diverse teams effectively and ensure smooth operations across various activities.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about SUSU’s future plans, challenges they face, or how they measure success in this role. This shows that you’re not just interested in the position, but also in contributing to their mission of enriching student life.