At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic development and growth of Computing & IT programmes.
- Company: Join one of the UK's fastest growing education providers focused on real outcomes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, generous leave, and strong development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with autonomy and a focus on innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and make a real impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in higher education and a PhD or equivalent qualification.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
About School of Coding & AI
School of Coding & AI (SoC&AI) is one of the UK's fastest growing education providers, delivering high quality, career focused programmes across Business, Coding, Computer Science & AI, STEM, Health and Social Care. We work with schools and universities to provide education that leads to real outcomes. Our focus is simple, student first, always.
We are now looking for a Head of Computing & IT to lead the strategic development, academic quality and continued growth of our Computing, IT, Computer Science and digital technology provision.
About the role
Reporting to the Dean, the Head of Computing & IT will provide strategic and operational leadership across our Computing and IT academic portfolio, ensuring the School delivers high quality teaching, strong student outcomes and programmes that remain relevant to the needs of the technology, digital and computing sectors. This is a senior academic leadership role with responsibility for shaping the direction of the Computing & IT portfolio, strengthening academic standards, supporting curriculum development and driving sustainable growth. You will work closely with Subject Leads, academic teams and senior leaders to ensure the School has the right structure, quality assurance, partnerships and delivery standards in place to support students and meet organisational objectives. The role will also play an important part in identifying opportunities to expand provision, develop new courses, build external partnerships and strengthen SoC&AI's profile across computing, IT, digital technology, software development, cyber, data, AI and related sectors. The postholder will be responsible for maintaining academic quality, regulatory compliance and financial sustainability, while contributing to SoC&AI's wider growth strategy and ensuring the Computing & IT School is recognised for quality, relevance, innovation and student success.
What You'll Be Doing
- Strategic Leadership
- Set and deliver a clear academic and commercial strategy for the Computing & IT School.
- Lead the growth and development of Computing, IT, Computer Science and digital technology provision.
- Identify market opportunities, sector needs and curriculum developments that support portfolio growth.
- Contribute to senior leadership forums and wider organisational strategy.
- Ensure the School's direction aligns with SoCAI's priorities, student outcomes and external sector expectations.
- Academic Quality & Student Experience
- Own teaching quality, learning outcomes and the overall student experience.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory bodies such as OfS, Ofsted and relevant PSRBs.
- Use data, including NSS, continuation, completion and outcomes, to drive improvement.
- Embed inclusive, accessible and high quality education.
- Research, Innovation & Impact
- Develop research, scholarship and knowledge exchange activity across Computing, IT and related disciplines.
- Encourage applied research, sector engagement and innovation that supports real world technology, digital and computing challenges.
- Support staff development, research output and external funding opportunities.
- Align activity with industry needs and regional priorities.
- People Leadership
- Lead and develop academic teams across the Computing & IT School.
- Build a high performing, accountable and engaged culture.
- Manage senior roles within the School and support leadership capability.
- Oversee workforce planning and effective deployment of resources.
- Financial & Operational Management
- Own and manage the Computing & IT School budget.
- Ensure financial sustainability and delivery against agreed targets.
- Optimise use of staff, space and resources.
- Respond effectively to changes in funding or demand.
- External Partnerships & Profile
- Build and manage relationships with employers, universities, technology companies, digital organisations, professional bodies and wider sector partners.
- Create opportunities for placements, employability, applied learning and sector engagement.
- Represent the Computing & IT School externally and strengthen its reputation.
- Develop partnerships that support curriculum relevance, student progression and wider industry impact.
- Governance & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with internal policies and external regulations.
- Lead on risk management, safeguarding and health & safety within the School.
- Contribute to academic governance and assurance processes.
What We're Looking For
- Essential
- Senior leadership experience within higher education, computing, IT, computer science, digital technology or a closely related sector.
- PhD or equivalent qualification.
- Strong academic or professional credibility within Computing, IT, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data, Cyber, AI or a related discipline.
- Proven track record of driving growth, change or performance improvement.
- Experience managing budgets and resources at scale.
- Experience working within regulated or accredited education environments.
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Experience with inspections or frameworks such as QAA, Ofsted or PSRBs.
- Desirable
- Professorial or equivalent professional standing.
- Experience leading large or multidisciplinary teams.
- Experience with OfS, TEF or KEF submissions.
- Track record of building external partnerships across academia, industry or the wider technology sector.
- Experience developing new courses or expanding academic provision within Computing, IT, Computer Science, digital technology or related disciplines.
Key Relationships
- Principal, Dean and Executive Leadership.
- School Leadership Team and Heads of Subjects.
- Academic and Professional Services teams.
- External partners including universities, employers, PSRBs and regulators.
Why Join Us
- Play a key leadership role in a fast growing education organisation.
- Shape the future of a School with real autonomy.
- Work in an environment that values impact and innovation.
- Be part of a team focused on delivering real outcomes for students.
Salary £60,000 per annum plus a performance related bonus of up to £15,000. Generous annual leave entitlement. Pension scheme. Employee Assistance Programme. Strong CPD and development opportunities. Company and social events. Retail discounts through Bright Exchange. Free onsite parking.
Head of Computing & IT — Growth, Quality & Partnerships in Birmingham employer: Job Search Place Limited
At the School of Coding & AI, we pride ourselves on being one of the UK's fastest growing education providers, dedicated to delivering high-quality, career-focused programmes. Our vibrant work culture fosters innovation and collaboration, offering exceptional professional development opportunities and a commitment to employee well-being, including generous leave and a supportive environment that prioritises student success. Join us in shaping the future of education in Computing & IT, where your leadership will make a tangible impact in a dynamic and rewarding setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Computing & IT — Growth, Quality & Partnerships in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their mission and values, especially how they align with your own. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable with common questions. This will help you articulate your experience and skills confidently when it’s your turn in the hot seat.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Computing & IT — Growth, Quality & 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 computing, IT, and leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at SoC&AI!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've driven growth or improved performance in previous roles. We love seeing tangible results!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who fits our culture and values, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are!
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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and developments in Computing, IT, and digital technology. Brush up on your knowledge about the School of Coding & AI and its programmes. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission will show that you’re genuinely interested.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Computing & IT, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed budgets, and driven growth in previous roles. Highlight your experience in fostering an inclusive and high-performing culture.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about your vision for the future of the Computing & IT portfolio. Think about market opportunities and curriculum developments that could enhance student outcomes. Be ready to discuss how you would align the School’s direction with industry needs and organisational objectives.
✨Engage with External Partnerships
Since building relationships with employers and other educational institutions is key, come prepared with ideas on how to strengthen these partnerships. Discuss any past experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated with external stakeholders to create opportunities for students.
