At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow assessment services, driving innovation and sustainable income growth.
- Company: Join NFER, a leading charity transforming education through research and assessment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a respected organisation with over 80 years of educational impact.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while leading a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in complex services, with business development and client engagement experience.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
NFER is a leading independent charity dedicated to improving education outcomes through robust research and high-quality assessment. With over 80 years of impact, we work at the intersection of evidence, policy and practice, supporting schools, governments and system leaders in the UK and internationally.
We are now seeking a senior leader to oversee and grow our assessment services portfolio. This is a pivotal appointment, combining strategic leadership, commercial acumen and sufficient technical understanding to operate credibly within a highly specialist environment.
The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the development and delivery of large-scale assessments and services. They will play a central role in driving sustainable income growth, identifying new market opportunities and strengthening NFER’s position both in the UK and internationally.
Alongside this, the role requires strong internal leadership, bringing together teams that have experienced recent change and establishing a clear, forward-looking direction.
Candidates will bring a track record of leading complex services or programmes, with experience of business development and client engagement.
Deputy Director, Assessment Services employer: National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER)
NFER is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in the education sector. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for professional development and leadership training, all within a supportive hybrid working environment in Slough. Joining NFER means being part of a mission-driven organisation that values your contributions and empowers you to make a meaningful impact on educational outcomes both in the UK and internationally.
Contact Details:
National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director, Assessment Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those connected to assessment services. Attend relevant events or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself – you never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your previous work in leading complex services or programmes. This will not only demonstrate your capabilities but also give you something tangible to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors, focusing on questions related to strategic leadership and business development. The more comfortable you are discussing your experience, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re all about making connections, so don’t hesitate to submit your application directly. It shows initiative and gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm for joining NFER and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director, Assessment Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Deputy Director role. Highlight your experience in leading complex services and business development, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see how you've led teams through change and driven growth in previous roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your strategic leadership and internal collaboration skills.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your points are easy to follow and directly relevant to the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER)
✨Know Your NFER
Before the interview, dive deep into NFER's mission and recent projects. Understanding their focus on improving educational outcomes through research will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Director, you'll need to exhibit strong leadership qualities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams through change or driven strategic initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you can bring that expertise to NFER.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Acumen
Since the role involves driving sustainable income growth, think of specific instances where you've identified new market opportunities or contributed to business development. Highlighting these experiences will show that you understand the commercial side of assessment services.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the role, brush up on relevant assessment methodologies and frameworks. Be prepared to discuss how your technical understanding can contribute to the development and delivery of large-scale assessments at NFER.
