At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of AI Services at Manchester Met, shaping innovative solutions for education and research.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest universities, dedicated to progress and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, 35 days leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for professional development and support for diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of AI in Higher Education, making a real impact on student experiences.
- Qualifications: Proven tech leadership, experience with AI technologies, and strong stakeholder influence skills.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
About Manchester Met
We have been proudly driving progress for more than two centuries. As one of the UK's largest and most popular universities, we're a force for good, dedicated to delivering outstanding research and excellent education. Much more than a university, we are a place where ambitious people unite as a diverse and inclusive community to make meaningful connections. Where world-class facilities combine with exceptional minds to improve lives through innovation. We welcome those who are committed, talented, and hardworking. People who believe in our values and are as driven as we are to achieve shared goals. Our community of over 5,100 colleagues work in close partnership every day to bring about positive change regionally, nationally, and globally. Build a role with purpose, in an environment designed to unlock your potential. Be part of Manchester Met. Be Manchester Met Proud. Let's transform lives together.
The role
This is a rare opportunity to establish and lead Manchester Met's first dedicated AI Services capability. Reporting to the Deputy CIO and central to our ambitious AI Adoption Programme, you'll shape how Artificial Intelligence is adopted, governed, integrated and operated across the University - building a specialist team and defining the standards, governance and operating model for AI at Manchester Met from the ground up. Working across Professional Services, academic faculties and research communities, you'll turn emerging AI opportunities into secure, scalable and sustainable services that improve student experience, colleague productivity, research capability and institutional effectiveness - using a modern Microsoft AI stack including Copilot, Copilot Studio and Azure AI. As our advocate for responsible, effective AI, you'll help position Manchester Met as a sector leader in the practical application of AI in Higher Education.
In return, we offer a generous employer pension contribution, hybrid working, and the chance to build something genuinely new at one of the UK's most ambitious universities.
What you'll lead and deliver
As Head of AI Services, you will:
- Establish, build and lead Manchester Met's new specialist AI Services team, setting its standards, practices and ways of working.
- Own and deliver the roadmap for AI-enabled services, identifying and prioritising high-value opportunities across education, research and operations.
- Lead the design and delivery of secure, scalable and sustainable AI services, platforms and integrations.
- Establish the governance, standards and responsible-AI practices that underpin safe and ethical adoption - working closely with Information Security, Data, Legal and Architecture colleagues.
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, presenting options, recommendations and investment proposals to governance groups.
- Build relationships with strategic suppliers and partners, and represent the University in sector forums and communities.
About you
You'll be an experienced technology leader who pairs strategic vision with genuine technical credibility. You'll bring:
- A track record of leading the delivery of complex digital, platform or technology-enabled services, and of leading and developing technical teams.
- Experience of introducing or scaling emerging-technology capabilities - ideally AI within a complex organisation.
- Strong knowledge of AI technologies and their practical application, alongside enterprise architecture, cloud services, integration and security.
- A sound grasp of information security, data protection, technology governance and responsible-AI principles.
- The ability to influence senior stakeholders, build consensus and lead change across organisational boundaries.
- Confidence operating in ambiguous, evolving environments, balancing innovation with governance and operational needs.
- A degree or equivalent experience, and evidence of ongoing professional development in digital, AI or leadership disciplines.
- Experience of Microsoft Copilot, Copilot Studio and Azure AI, or of working within Higher Education or the public sector, would be an advantage.
The closing date for applications is 16 August 2026.
Further information and how to apply
**Please do not apply for this vacancy on the university website**
Manchester Metropolitan University has appointed Osmium Partners to manage this search on an exclusive and retained basis. For a confidential discussion, or to apply via email, please contact Emily Stapley at Osmium Partners via emily.stapley@osmium-partners.co.uk
Applications should include:
Curriculum Vitae
Supporting Statement (no more than 2 pages, in 12 font)
Interviews will be held in Manchester on 18 or 19 August 2026.
In addition to an attractive and competitive salary, we also offer a high-quality guaranteed pension (Greater Manchester Pension Fund), plus 35 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, plus discretionary Christmas closure days.
Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.
Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups. Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.
Location: Manchester All Saints Campus
Faculty / Function: IT & Digital
Salary: Competitive
Closing Date: 16 August 2026
Contract Type: Permanent
Contracted Hours per week: 37
Head of AI Services in Manchester employer: Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester Metropolitan University offers a vibrant and inclusive work environment for students, providing flexible shifts that fit around academic commitments. As a Kitchen Assistant, you'll gain valuable experience in a dynamic catering setting while enjoying opportunities for personal growth and development. Join a supportive team that values your contributions and fosters a sense of community on campus.
Contact Details:
Manchester Metropolitan University Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of AI Services in Manchester
✨Join the IT Consultancy Buzz
Get involved in local or virtual IT consultancy meetups and forums. This is where we can rub shoulders with industry professionals, get insights into what Manchester Metropolitan University values, and even spot unadvertised opportunities. Don't miss out on these chances to make a name for ourselves in the IT world!
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✨Direct Apply to Manchester Metropolitan University
Let's not forget to apply directly through the Manchester Metropolitan University website! Tailor your application to showcase our understanding of their consulting style and how we can contribute to their projects. A personalised approach can make a huge difference in landing that full-time position!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of AI Services in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In IT consulting, it's all about problem-solving, so make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills and any relevant projects you've tackled. Mention specific technologies or methodologies you've used to resolve issues or improve processes; this shows you can think critically and deliver results, which is vital for us at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Certifications like ITIL, PMP, or even specific tech stack qualifications can really make you stand out. Make sure to include these in your CV, as they not only demonstrate your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Manchester Metropolitan University. Share stories about your experiences in IT consulting, and how they shaped your desire to join our team. Mention why you’re excited about this particular role, and how you see yourself contributing to our projects.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We're all busy, so make sure your application is easy to read. Use bullet points for key achievements, and don’t overload us with jargon. A clean, professional layout goes a long way. Remember, the clearer your application, the more likely we are to invite you in for an interview!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Metropolitan University
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Skills
For an IT consulting role, be ready to demonstrate your technical prowess. You might face questions on systems integration, cloud technologies, or even troubleshooting specific software. If you have experience with tools like AWS, Azure, or even specific programming languages, make sure you can talk about them fluently.
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IT consulting is all about solving problems for clients. Think about how you can illustrate your approach to a past challenge using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It's a great way to show how you tackle complex issues and come up with effective solutions.
✨Know the Business Impact of IT Solutions
When discussing your experiences, focus not just on the tech solutions you implemented, but also on their business impact. Employers want to see that you can connect IT with organisational goals. Prep examples that highlight how your tech contributions improved efficiency or reduced costs for past clients or projects.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since IT consulting often involves teamwork and client interactions, expect behavioural questions that assess your interpersonal skills. Be prepared with examples that demonstrate your adaptability, communication skills, and how you handle client feedback. Before the interview, think of situations where you worked closely with clients to create effective IT strategies or changes.
