Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning and programmes to enhance higher education experiences for students.
- Company: Join the Office for Students, a dynamic regulator of higher education in England.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension, flexible working, and a supportive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while shaping the future of higher education.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in business planning and programme delivery required.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Generous Civil Service defined benefit pension
About us
We are the independent regulator of higher education in England. We aim to ensure that every student, whatever their background, has a fulfilling experience of higher education that enriches their lives and careers. We’re proud of our people, our culture and the benefits we offer. We care about supporting and developing our staff. At the OfS we want to create a welcoming and engaging working environment which is free from discrimination. We’re looking for skilled, committed people who care about students and their experience of higher education. Join us and you’ll be part of an energetic, forward‑looking organisation with high ambitions and big opportunities for our people.
About the role
We’re looking for an effective leader to shape how the Office for Students (OfS) plans, delivers and improves its work. You will lead three core areas:
- Business planning – developing a clear, prioritised and deliverable OfS business plan aligned to our strategy.
- Programme and project management – acting as custodian of our project lifecycle and ensuring projects and programmes deliver real impact: on time, on budget, and to the right quality.
- Operational improvement – advising senior leaders on change, resource allocation, and continuous improvement.
You will lead a small team of expert project and resource managers and work closely with colleagues across finance, organisational development, and the wider organisation.
About you
You will bring:
- Proven leadership in business planning and/or programme delivery, with a track record of driving improvements rather than simply applying methodology.
- Strong relationship‑building skills, with the confidence to influence and facilitate discussions at all levels.
- Expertise in change and improvement, able to translate organisational priorities into practical, effective action.
- Resilience and insight in navigating challenging prioritisation decisions, ensuring plans are focused on delivering maximum value.
For the purposes of recruitment to the role, we are measuring the following core competencies:
- Delivering at pace – I work with my team to create structures and systems, that ensure that my directorate/team contribute efficiently and effectively to the OfS’s objectives. I drive a cross‑functional performance culture so that everyone is enabled to contribute across directorate boundaries in an inclusive way. I recognise those who create an inclusive culture which allows people the space and authority to deliver their objectives, while responding quickly to changing requirements. I consider and understand priorities across the organisation and contribute to effective organisational planning that supports the OfS to set a clear direction and focus on delivering outcomes in a timely manner.
- Developing self and others – I encourage my team to creatively share their expertise to support teams across the OfS to succeed, e.g. via briefings, coaching, mentoring and the development of online learning. I recognise those who actively work to develop their teams. I create an inclusive environment in which all individuals can develop regardless of their needs or background. I champion the strategic importance of managing talent, developing people, and take appropriate action to be inclusive, making sure all groups of people can unlock their full potential.
- Communicating and influencing – I actively deploy different methods for influencing others, including making the most of digital resources to respond to different learning styles. I act as a role model to others by communicating with clarity, honesty, and enthusiasm to build trust. I am open‑minded and impartial in discussion so I can adjust my arguments to respect the diverse interests and opinions of others. I deliver difficult messages with clarity and sensitivity. I can articulate arguments and reasons in a clear and persuasive manner.
Application process
There are 3 online application questions to complete, alongside providing a summary of your career to date, which will allow you to demonstrate your relevant experience.
Reasonable adjustment
We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you through the application stage, please contact us and we will be happy to help.
Working for us
The OfS regulates the higher education sector on behalf of all students. We value diversity and the wealth of perspectives, experience and ideas that it brings to our work, and we strive to embed equality of opportunity in everything we do. We recruit based on fair and open competition and welcome applications from candidates regardless of age, disability, race and ethnicity, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. Flexibility is important to the OfS, as we recognise that it can enable people to work more effectively. A set of organisation‑wide principles shape our approach to flexible and hybrid working, which our teams then use as guidance on how they deliver their business goals. This would usually mean working from the office for two or three days in a typical week. To attract the widest possible field of qualified applicants, flexible working; for example job share and part time working apply to this role.
Closing date for applications: Monday 9 March at noon
Interviews: from week commencing Monday 16 March
For information: the OfS does not hold a UK Visa & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence.
Head of Planning and Programmes employer: Office for Students
Contact Detail:
Office for Students Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning and Programmes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working at the OfS. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to leadership and programme management. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers – it’s a game changer!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for higher education! When you get the chance, share your thoughts on how to improve student experiences. It’ll show you care and are ready to make an impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning and Programmes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives.
Tailor Your Responses: Make sure to align your answers with the job description. Highlight your leadership skills and experience in business planning and programme delivery. Show us how you can drive improvements and make a real impact!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; tell us about your successes! Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've influenced change and improved processes in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Office for Students
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the OfS's mission and values. Understand their approach to higher education regulation and think about how your experience in business planning and programme delivery aligns with their goals. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in driving improvements and managing teams. Be ready to discuss specific situations where you've influenced change or improved processes, as this is crucial for the Head of Planning and Programmes role.
✨Build Relationships
Since strong relationship-building skills are key, think of ways to demonstrate your ability to connect with others. Share stories about how you've facilitated discussions at various levels and how you’ve created inclusive environments that empower team members.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Prepare to discuss how you handle difficult conversations and deliver sensitive messages. Being able to communicate with clarity and enthusiasm will set you apart during the interview.