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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative qualifications and assessments in a dynamic educational environment.
- Company: Join Ascentis, a leading educational charity transforming lives through education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, flexible working, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while growing your career with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in assessment design and project management skills required.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for professional development and a vibrant workplace culture.
The predicted salary is between 36849 - 41400 £ per year.
Starting Salary: £36,849 per annum
Job Type: 1 x Permanent, 1 x 12-month maternity cover
Working pattern: Monday to Friday 35 hours per week. Monday-Thursday in our Head Office in Lancaster, work from home on Fridays (flexible working options will be considered)
About Us
We are proud to be one of the UK’s leading educational charity groups, encompassing an awarding organisation, a provider of dyslexia intervention software and an online training organisation. Our enthusiastic people bring genuine passion and natural energy to everything that they do and through their infectious energy they transform the lives of thousands of people each year through the power of education. It has never been a more exciting time to join Ascentis as we continue our journey of growth across the UK and overseas.
We are market leading in the education sector and the specialist areas we operate within, maintaining the #1 provision for ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) in the UK as well as being a leading Access Validating Agency. We are based in Lancaster but we have a national reach, with a significant customer base in London. We have secured two major achievements, winning the Innovation of the Year and Awarding Organisation of the Year at the 2024 Federation of Awarding Bodies awards.
Ascentis is made up of brilliant people, unique in terms of background, personality, characteristics, experience and skill. We value our people for the differences they bring to the table and believe this diversity is powerful. We are an equal opportunities employer, and we are determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race, or is disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.
About the Role
As a key contributor to Ascentis Awarding Organisation’s mission of delivering high-quality qualifications, you will lead the development and lifecycle management of qualifications and assessments with precision, innovation, and strategic foresight.
Responsibilities
- Research, manage, and deliver qualification and assessment products with meticulous attention to detail, balancing multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Develop qualifications, assessments, and support resources that meet the highest standards of quality and compliance with internal policies and external regulatory frameworks. All outputs must be audit-ready and withstand scrutiny from centres, learners, employers, and regulators.
- Conduct regular reviews of qualifications and assessments, implementing enhancements where needed. Oversee the full lifecycle from concept to retirement, ensuring relevance and impact.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Ascentis’ portfolio, regulatory changes, sector trends, and policy developments to inform strategic decisions and product innovation.
- Work closely with Subject Matter Experts to design innovative, high-quality products.
- Ensure all development aligns with Ascentis and regulatory guidance, fostering excellence and creativity.
- Contribute to cross-functional initiatives to ensure seamless implementation and ongoing success of qualifications across departments.
Requirements
- Degree or equivalent professional qualification, or significant professional experience in the awarding / regulatory sector and excellent track record
- Knowledge and experience of assessment design and development, and principles of good assessment practice
- Excellent project management skills
- Demonstrable commitment to a high standard of customer service
- Ability to achieve agreed targets and to work to deadlines
- High attention to detail and ability to work independently and cross-team collaboration.
If you have the following attributes, then we’d be even more impressed:
- Background in ESOL qualifications and understanding of associated regulatory requirements.
- Proven track record in developing qualifications, assessments or products for the international markets.
- Skilled in creating Ofqual-regulated qualifications and associated assessment materials.
Further information
- Closing date: Tuesday 3rd March 2026
- Proposed interview dates: Week Commencing 9th March 2026
- This job may meet the eligibility requirements to qualify for visa sponsorship.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus 8 public holidays, birthday day off, closure days gifted during the Christmas period, increased annual leave with long service and an Annual Leave Purchase Scheme (up to a maximum of 43 days)
- Competitive pension benefits, including a salary sacrifice scheme
- Access to Informal Flexibility, allowing you to flex your working times and location where viable
- Incremental service benefits as a family-friendly employer, including enhanced Maternity, Neonatal, Paternity, Shared Parental, Adoption Leave and Pay, Sick Pay, Life Insurance, and Paid Compassionate Leave
- Access to state-of-the-art office and break facilities, such as bean-to-cup coffee machine, vending machine, pool table, Xbox, outdoor seating, dressing room (with access to hair dryers, straighteners, airers, shower facilities), Harry Potter reading room, employee library and more
- Free parking, paid electricity charging points, locked bike storage shed
- Tailored learning and development opportunities
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Home and Tech Scheme
- Discounted gym membership at 3-1-5 Health Club
- 24-hour employee helpline and a proactive focus on wellbeing
- Aviva DigiCare+ health app with access to virtual GP appointments, annual health check and more
- Reward and recognition scheme, regular team building and communication activities
Do you like the sound of Ascentis, but think your skills might suit another role? We also have other vacancies available. Take a look at our website for more! www.ascentis.co.uk/jobs
Product Development Manager (Qualifications and Assessment) x 2 positions in Lancaster employer: The Ascentis Group
Contact Detail:
The Ascentis Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Development Manager (Qualifications and Assessment) x 2 positions in Lancaster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work at Ascentis. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Ascentis' recent achievements and projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested in our mission and how you can contribute to our growth!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t be afraid to let your passion for education show!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates there, so keep checking back!
We think you need these skills to ace Product Development Manager (Qualifications and Assessment) x 2 positions in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Product Development Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in assessment design and project management, and show us how you align with our mission at Ascentis.
Showcase Your Passion: We love seeing genuine enthusiasm! In your application, let us know why you're excited about working in the education sector and how you can contribute to our innovative projects. Your passion can really set you apart!
Be Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is key for this role. Ensure your application is free from typos and errors, and that it clearly demonstrates your meticulous approach to work. We want to see that you can deliver high-quality outputs right from the start.
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. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the position there!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Ascentis Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Ascentis' mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their qualifications and assessment products, especially in ESOL. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their needs.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed projects in the past. Highlight your ability to balance multiple priorities and meet deadlines, as this role requires meticulous attention to detail and effective time management.
✨Engage with Subject Matter Experts
Prepare to talk about your experience working with Subject Matter Experts. Discuss how you’ve collaborated to develop innovative and high-quality products, as this is crucial for the role. Bring examples that demonstrate your teamwork and communication skills.
✨Stay Current with Trends
Make sure you're up-to-date with the latest trends in the education sector and any regulatory changes. Being able to discuss these topics during your interview will show that you’re proactive and committed to continuous improvement in qualifications and assessments.
