At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the operational strategy for Aston University's doctoral programmes and partnerships.
- Company: Aston University, a vibrant institution in Birmingham focused on innovative education.
- Benefits: Dynamic working, generous leave, training opportunities, and discounts on activities.
- Other info: Join a supportive community with excellent career growth and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Shape the future of doctoral education and make a real impact in academia.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational leadership and knowledge of higher education policies.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
This is an exciting period of strategic transformation at Aston University, Birmingham. Aston 2030 Strategy promises to redesign the development planning and delivery of professional education and training programmes around the needs of employers, businesses, and local communities. Aston University is embarking on a significant expansion of its doctoral programmes and partnerships with an ambition to double doctoral student numbers to 1,000+ by 2030. The Aston Doctoral School (ADS) is responsible for such advancement and will be known for its vitality, the rigour of its doctoral programmes and commitment to providing sector leading, researcher led training for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers as well as early career academics. The Doctoral School also plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of a positive research culture and environment for enhanced doctoral and postdoctoral researchers' experience.
The Director of Operations, who will be based in ADS, will provide operational leadership for the University's doctoral provision (PhD and Professional Doctorates such as DBA) and postdoctoral researchers support, ensuring academic quality, student experience, regulatory compliance and innovation, while developing national and international doctoral partnerships, including joint and dual awards. The Director of Operations will report directly to and be line managed by the Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor, Research and Enterprise (REF, Doctoral School and International Research).
Responsibilities- Provide operational leadership for the University's doctoral provision (PhD and Professional Doctorates such as DBA) and postdoctoral researchers support.
- Ensure academic quality, student experience, regulatory compliance and innovation.
- Develop national and international doctoral partnerships, including joint and dual awards.
- Report directly to and be line managed by the Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor, Research and Enterprise (REF, Doctoral School and International Research).
- Experience of operational leadership and process improvement.
- Knowledge of the external policy environment in which the Higher Education sector operates and issues pertinent to doctoral research.
- Ability to work authoritatively and respectfully with stakeholders across the University.
- Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre with excellent transport links via bus or train.
- The role is offered as 'dynamic working', which means working both on campus (expected on campus 3 days per week) and from home depending on the activity.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
- Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
- Great family friendly policies.
- On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.
Director of Doctoral Operations — Strategy & Partnerships in Birmingham employer: Job Search Place Limited
Aston University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work environment in the heart of Birmingham with excellent transport links. The university prioritises employee growth through outstanding training and development opportunities, alongside a generous leave scheme and family-friendly policies. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, Aston University fosters a positive research culture, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in higher education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Doctoral Operations — Strategy & Partnerships in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Aston University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Aston 2030 Strategy. Show us that you understand their vision and how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently, making you stand out during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Doctoral Operations — Strategy & Partnerships in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational leadership and process improvement. We want to see how your skills align with the exciting transformation at Aston University!
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of the Higher Education sector and the challenges it faces, especially regarding doctoral research. We’re looking for someone who can navigate this landscape with authority and respect.
Highlight Collaborative Skills:Since the role involves working with various stakeholders, emphasise your ability to build partnerships and foster a positive research culture. We value collaboration, so let us know how you’ve done this in the past!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at Aston University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in Aston University's 2030 Strategy and how it relates to doctoral operations. Familiarise yourself with the current landscape of doctoral education and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your operational leadership and process improvement experience. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you successfully navigated them, especially in a higher education context.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to work with various stakeholders by preparing to discuss how you’ve built partnerships in the past. Be ready to share strategies for fostering collaboration and maintaining positive relationships across different departments.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the future of the Doctoral School. Inquire about their vision for expanding doctoral programmes and how they plan to enhance the student experience, which will reflect your genuine enthusiasm for the position.
