Planning and Development Manager in Manchester

About The Directorate

Academic Services is one of Manchester Metropolitan University's largest Professional Services Directorates, bringing together a diverse range of specialist services that support students, colleagues and the University’s strategic ambitions. The Directorate encompasses a wide range of departments with responsibilities including enrolment, assessment, graduation, counselling, welfare and disability support, library and cultural services, technical teaching and research and careers and employability services. Working in partnership with Faculties and Professional Services colleagues across the University, Academic Services delivers services that are fundamental to the student experience, from enrolment through to graduation and beyond, while also playing a key role in supporting the University’s education and research priorities. Academic Services is committed to delivering excellent, user-centred services that are collaborative, innovative and responsive. We continually seek opportunities to improve services, strengthen partnerships across the University and create an environment in which our people can develop and thrive.

About The Team

The Academic Registrar’s Office Projects and Planning team provides strategic leadership, governance and operational coordination across Academic Services. The team plays a pivotal role in delivering major projects across the Directorate and the University, drives strategic planning activities, and oversees key areas of University compliance. The Planning and Development Manager will provide project management for important initiatives, develop solutions to complex problems, and help to co-ordinate Directorate wide activity. This is a fantastic opportunity to join and work with a team who is passionate about making a positive impact for our students and staff. The team operates a hybrid working model, with a minimum expectation of three days per week on campus.

About The Role

We’re seeking an experienced and proactive Planning and Development Manager to lead and coordinate a diverse portfolio of projects, oversee Directorate-wide activities, and provide high-quality support for working groups and stakeholder engagement initiatives. Working collaboratively with colleagues across Academic Services and the wider University community, you will play a key role in the operational management and coordination of important compliance areas, including the Prevent duty, freedom of speech requirements, and student casework. This is a varied, challenging and highly rewarding position, offering the opportunity to work closely with Directors and senior leaders from across the University. You will manage competing priorities, support the delivery of strategic objectives, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and organisational excellence. The role requires sound judgement, discretion and resilience, as you will be responsible for handling and resolving a broad range of matters that are often confidential, sensitive and time-critical. Well suited to a motivated and self-starting individual, this position offers an excellent opportunity to gain valuable insight and experience within a central University department while making a meaningful contribution to its success.

About You

This is a diverse, challenging and rewarding role that requires exceptional organisational and project management skills. You will be resourceful, self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to manage a varied workload and balance competing priorities effectively. Building and maintaining strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders will be central to your success, and you will consistently demonstrate a positive, professional and collaborative approach while representing the Academic Registrar’s Office and the University. You will possess excellent written and verbal communication skills and be confident engaging with colleagues at all levels, including senior leaders across the University. Adaptable and responsive, you will demonstrate a proactive and conscientious approach to your work, with the ability to respond effectively to urgent and evolving priorities. We are looking for an individual who is committed to continuous improvement, with a keen eye for identifying opportunities to enhance business processes and ways of working. Equally important is a collaborative mindset and a willingness to contribute positively to a supportive, team-focused environment.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to play a central role in one of Manchester Metropolitan University’s most strategically important Professional Services Directorates. You will work alongside senior leaders across Academic Services, helping to drive projects and initiatives that make a tangible difference to colleagues, students and the wider University community. If you enjoy working with people, enabling change and improving services, we’d love to hear from you.