At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage exciting research projects and support a dynamic team at SOAS University.
- Company: Join SOAS, Europe's leading institution for Asian, African, and Middle Eastern studies.
- Benefits: Enjoy 44 days of holiday, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities in a vibrant academic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable development in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree and proven project management experience required.
Department: Economics
Contract Type: Fixed-Term contract until 31st August 2029
Grade: 7
Salary: £43,297.57 to £50,562.57 per annum inclusive of London Allowance
Location: Bloomsbury, Camden, Greater London, United Kingdom
Hours: 17.5 (0.5% FTE)
SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.
About the Role
Reporting to the Co-Directors of the Centre for Sustainable Structural Transformation, you will use your specialist project management capabilities to proactively project-manage and provide admin support to a wide-ranging portfolio of research projects. This includes:
- Providing admin support to the Co-Directors, Research Fellows, and Policy Fellows in the planning of their field work, expenses and reporting;
- Providing admin support to the Co-Directors in the management of the staff, fellows and affiliates to the Centre;
- Administering and coordinating logistics, organisation and promotion of the Centre’s seminars, workshops and conferences;
- Managing the Centre’s website and ensuring the updating of blogs and newsletters;
- Providing a focal point for dissemination activities;
- Gathering evidence on the policy impact of the Centre.
About the Department
The Centre for Sustainable Structural Transformation (CSST) is a research centre hosted by the SOAS Economics Department. CSST will conduct path-breaking research in developing countries, especially those in Africa and Southeast Asia, to inform strategies for structural transformation and economic diversification that are environmentally and socially sustainable. CSST will also advance concrete proposals on how private sector firms and governments can coordinate their efforts towards new industrial pathways for sustainable prosperity. As the Centre evolves, new research streams will be added, depending on other funding opportunities, potential research partnerships, and demands from policymakers, civil society organisations and businesses. Professors Ha-Joon Chang and Antonio Andreoni in the SOAS Economics Department co‑direct the CSST.
About you
You will have a master’s degree in a relevant discipline and proven track record in end-to-end project management in relevant organisations including academia, think tanks, policy-focused research centres, government and international organisations. You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website.
What We Offer:
- Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 5 closure days over Christmas and Easter).
- Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
- Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future.
- Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
- Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
- Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
- Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.
How to Apply:
Please complete the online application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement. Closing date: 09th August 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Interviews to be held: 19th August 2026.
Use of AI
While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.
Further information
Please note that the application system does not currently have a save-and-return feature. To avoid losing any information, we strongly encourage you to complete and submit your application in one sitting. Make sure you have all necessary details ready before you begin. Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. We are not able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK. If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS. For information on how and why SOAS processes personal data about its job applicants, please read our Job Applicant Notice.
Centre Manager employer: SOAS University of London
SOAS University of London is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With generous holiday entitlement, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to professional development, employees are empowered to grow and excel in their roles. Joining our newly established team means contributing to meaningful improvements in student and staff experiences within a prestigious institution located in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Centre Manager
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Centre Manager at SOAS University of London!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like SOAS University of London or be willing to refer you for that Centre Manager position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from SOAS University of London who’s on the lookout for their next Centre Manager star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Centre Manager role at SOAS University of London!
We think you need these skills to ace Centre Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at SOAS University of London. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at SOAS University of London
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at SOAS University of London. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
