At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a major transformation programme to modernise operations and enhance digital capabilities.
- Company: Queen Margaret University, a values-led institution focused on positive social impact.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract with opportunities for professional growth and impactful work.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to creating a sustainable future for the university.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in higher education through innovative change and digital transformation.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading complex organisational change and transformation programmes.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Queen Margaret University (QMU) is a values‐led university focused on education, research and innovation that creates positive social impact. Based on a modern campus near Edinburgh, QMU is known for its inclusive, person‐centred approach and strengths across healthcare, social sciences, creative arts, business, enterprise and teaching.
QMU is embarking on a significant period of transformation to strengthen financial sustainability, modernise operations and accelerate digital capability across the University.
Reporting to the Principal & Vice‐Chancellor, the Senior Transformation Programme Director will lead the delivery of a major institution‐wide transformation programme over a two‐year period. This high‐profile leadership role will oversee the redesign of the University's operating model alongside the development of a more digitally enabled organisation. Working closely with senior leaders across academic and professional services, you will bring structure, pace and delivery focus to a complex portfolio of change.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Lead the delivery of QMU's transformation and financial recovery programme, translating strategy into a clear implementation roadmap with defined milestones and outcomes.
- Establish and lead a Transformation Office/PMO, ensuring strong governance, integrated planning, RAID management and benefits tracking.
- Drive operating model redesign, process optimisation and service improvement to reduce complexity and improve efficiency.
- Oversee delivery of the University's digital spine, supporting automation, analytics, improved data quality and better decision‐making.
- Support organisational change in partnership with senior leaders and HR, helping embed a culture of continuous improvement.
- Advise the Senior Leadership Team on programme governance, risks, reporting and delivery priorities.
- Explore opportunities to enhance institutional effectiveness through AI, advanced analytics and emerging technologies.
About You
You will be an experienced transformation leader with a strong track record of delivering complex organisational change, ideally within Higher Education or similarly complex environments. You should bring experience of leading large‐scale transformation programmes, operating model redesign and PMO leadership, alongside the ability to translate strategy into delivery at pace. Strong stakeholder management skills, commercial awareness and an understanding of digital and data‐led transformation are essential. Experience of financial recovery, shared services, enterprise systems or AI‐enabled transformation would be advantageous.
Senior Transformation Programme Director in Edinburgh employer: Queen Margaret University
Queen Margaret University is an exceptional employer that prioritises a values-led approach, fostering an inclusive and supportive work culture. Located in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, employees benefit from a dynamic environment that encourages professional growth and innovation, particularly in the realms of healthcare, social sciences, and digital transformation. With a commitment to positive social impact and a focus on modernising operations, QMU offers unique opportunities for meaningful contributions to the future of education and research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Transformation Programme Director in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the higher education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching QMU's recent initiatives and transformation goals. This will help you tailor your responses and show how your experience aligns with their vision. Plus, it’ll impress the hiring team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the QMU community.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Transformation Programme Director in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Senior Transformation Programme Director role. Highlight your transformation leadership experience and any relevant achievements in similar environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about leading transformation at QMU. Be specific about how your background fits the job description and what you can bring to the table.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to manage stakeholders effectively. Share examples of how you've navigated complex relationships and driven change in previous roles, especially in higher education or similar sectors.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Margaret University
✨Know Your Transformation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of transformation programmes, especially in higher education. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led similar initiatives and the impact they had. This shows you're not just familiar with the theory but have real-world experience.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Stakeholder management is key for this role. Prepare to share stories about how you've successfully engaged with various stakeholders in past projects. Highlight your communication strategies and how you navigated any challenges that arose.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since the role involves digital transformation, be prepared to talk about how you've used data analytics in previous roles. Discuss any tools or methodologies you've employed to improve decision-making and operational efficiency.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
QMU values a culture of continuous improvement, so come armed with examples of how you've fostered this in your teams. Talk about processes you've implemented that encouraged innovation and adaptability within an organisation.