Director of Digital Excellence: AI & Cyber Security in Manchester

The Manchester College is proud to be one of a select number of institutions nationally awarded Digital Technical Excellence College status - a prestigious recognition placing us at the forefront of the UK's digital skills revolution. With a strategic focus on Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence, we are now seeking an exceptional, forward-thinking leader to shape and deliver this exciting, high-profile initiative.

As Director of Digital Technical Excellence, you will take the lead in building a flagship hub that transforms digital technical education across the region. Working at the intersection of education, industry, and government, you will:

• Drive innovation in digital technical education.
• Lead influential regional and national partnerships.
• Position the College as a centre of excellence in AI and cyber security.

This is a senior, high-impact role for someone who can hit the ground running, bringing credible experience in digital disciplines - ideally within education or workforce development - alongside the vision and confidence to deliver at pace.

As the face of Digital Technical Excellence, you will:

• Champion the Digital Technical Excellence College brand and lead strategic growth.
• Ensure delivery aligned to DfE expectations and employer needs.
• Oversee major investment and capital projects.
• Shape a future-focused curriculum in AI and cyber security.
• Build partnerships across FE, HE, training providers, and industry.

Through this work, you will create clear pathways into high-skill, high-value digital careers and play a key role in strengthening the regional skills pipeline.

Location: Our City Centre campus is a flagship site in the heart of Manchester, offering cutting-edge facilities and a buzzing, creative atmosphere. Home to our Centre of Excellence for Creative and Digital Industries, it provides an inspiring setting for both staff and learners, with specialist studios, workshops, and collaborative spaces. With its central location and strong industry links, the campus is a hub for innovation, talent development, and real-world learning. This opportunity is based at our City Campus Manchester on a permanent, full-time (35 hours per week) basis.

Benefits:

• 35 days paid annual leave plus 8 bank holidays.
• 3 well-being days per year.
• Significant pension contribution.
• Retail discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Cycle to work scheme.

Skills, Qualifications and Experience:

• Degree or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum level 2 qualification in Maths and English.
• Evidence of strong commitment to continuous professional development.
• A proven track record in quality assurance and excellence in teaching, training, or workforce development.
• Strong understanding of technical education (including Level 4 & 5, apprenticeships, CPD) and its challenges and opportunities.
• Knowledge of the Digital sector, its current priorities and future workforce needs.
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders and influencing at senior level.
• Excellent project management, communication, and partnership building skills.
• Analytical and data driven, able to turn insight into impact.
• Experience managing capital funded projects, Ofsted quality requirements, or OfS regulatory frameworks.
• A background in business development within education or industry.
• Understanding of widening participation and breaking down barriers for disadvantaged learners.

Safeguarding: The LTE Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants will be required to undergo an appropriate DBS check via the Criminal Records Bureau and may be subject to additional online checks as part of our pre‑screening process. Some roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and would require an enhanced DBS check.

Equal Opportunities Statement: At The Manchester College, we’re committed to providing an environment free from discrimination, bullying, harassment, or victimisation, where all members of our community are treated with respect and dignity. The Manchester College is committed to working in an inclusive way with all the communities where we are geographically located and to developing a workforce and student community that reflects Greater Manchester’s and the UK’s rich diversity and vibrancy.

Application Deadline: The closing date for this job advert is 10/06/2026. However, sometimes the job advert may close early if we receive a good response!