Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards
Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards

Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards

Milton Keynes Full-Time 46735 - 55755 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead quality assurance processes and manage external reviews to enhance academic standards.
  • Company: Join the Open University, a leader in accessible education and innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, hybrid work options, and a supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on student experiences and outcomes while developing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in quality assurance and strong communication skills are essential; higher education experience is a plus.
  • Other info: Part-time role with a negotiable work pattern; applications encouraged from diverse backgrounds.

The predicted salary is between 46735 - 55755 £ per year.

The Senior Manager, Academic Quality and Standards is responsible for the leadership and management of key quality assurance and enhancement processes which together with the other Senior Managers in the team, ensure that the Open University meets its external and internal responsibilities in relation to academic quality and standards. The primary aim of this role is to manage external reviews, accreditations and reporting of quality assurance. There is scope to be involved in wider quality assurance processes depending on the post-holder’s experience and the needs of the team. The role is also responsible for the line management of colleagues responsible for the delivery of the associated activities.

This is a key leadership role within the Team. The Team supports the Pro-Vice Chancellor (PVC) Students’ institutional accountability for assurance and enhancement of academic quality and standards and alignment with external quality assessment frameworks, thereby improving student experience and student outcomes. The majority of the work of the Team is directly related to the leadership, management and oversight of University curriculum approval, monitoring and review processes, and external compliance with external quality assurance requirements. The Team also provides advice and guidance to colleagues across the University on quality-related matters, as well as managing the review of the validated and research degrees provision.

Key Responsibilities
  • Operational Leadership: Lead colleagues in preparing for, facilitating the management of, and responding to external quality reviews and accreditations of the University. Prepare for and facilitate the management of regular external reporting to external bodies. Regularly author and/or contribute to the drafting of key institutional reports relating to academic quality and standards for internal and external use. Leadership and management of colleagues within the Team who are responsible for delivery of quality assurance and enhancement processes, including the line management of colleagues responsible for the allocated activities. Manage the design, development and maintenance of documentation and guidance for quality assurance and enhancement processes, including online resources.
  • Process Improvement: Lead, manage and advise on the monitoring of, and continued development of institutional processes and policies for quality assurance and enhancement, to ensure compliance with external requirements. Contribute to relevant institutional projects that impact on the university’s quality and standards frameworks and practice. Engage in continuing professional development to remain up-to-date with respect to changes in the external quality and standards landscape.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Provide advice and guidance to colleagues across the University on quality-related matters. Promote co-ordination between units and integration of approach to quality management across the institution. To undertake any other duties which may reasonably be required.
  • Governance: Contribute to the work of University groups and committees responsible for quality assurance/ enhancement and standards as required. Provide project management to quality assurance groups/ committees/ projects, including preparation and presentation of formal reports and minutes.
Skills and ExperienceEssential:
  • Operational Leadership Expertise: Experience of managing quality and standards systems, policy and processes in complex settings, to meet the requirements of external frameworks. Demonstrable experience of working under pressure and prioritising conflicting demands to deliver to tight deadlines within resource constraints. Demonstrable organisational, planning and prioritisation skills. Proven ability to lead, develop and motivate individuals/ teams autonomously and with initiative.
  • Process Improvement Expertise: Demonstrable problem-solving skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment in proposing recommendations and implementing solutions. A commitment to the OU mission and values, and to the integration and delivery of equality, diversity and inclusion principles. A strong commitment to excellence in working with a diverse student population.
  • Stakeholder Engagement Expertise: Experience of leading stakeholders to implement institution-wide changes in complex settings. Demonstrable stakeholder management skills, with the ability to use tact and diplomacy when dealing with a diverse group of people at all levels, and the ability to influence and challenge at all levels so that results are achieved, including where line management responsibility is indirect.
  • Communication Skills: Demonstrable written and verbal communication skills suitable for communicating with senior internal and/ or external stakeholders. A first degree in any subject, or equivalent work experience.
Desirable:
  • Higher Education Experience: Experience of working in the Higher Education sector.
  • Knowledge and Experience of External Quality Assurance Compliance & Regulation: Experience of leading the application of external frameworks/ regulatory requirements in complex educational settings. For example, managing institutional compliance with the UK Quality Code for Higher Education, European Standards Guidelines, the Office for Students’ Ongoing Conditions of Registration, accrediting bodies, and Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies. Knowledge and/ or experience of academic quality and standards systems, policy and processes in the four Nations of the UK higher education sector.
  • Experience of Representing Institutions During External Scrutiny: Experience of preparing for and facilitating external review methodologies, for example: Quality Assurance Agency reviews, Ofsted inspections, or Office for Students’ investigations.
Essential Requirements

Flexible working: We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working arrangement. Please reach out to us to discuss what works best for you. This is a part time position of 18.5 hours with a negotiable work pattern. Work location: It is anticipated that a hybrid working pattern can be adopted for this role, where you can work from home and the office. However, as this role is contractually aligned to our Milton Keynes office it is expected that some attendance in the office will be required when necessary and in response to business needs. We’d expect this to be approximately once a month. As we operate across the four nations we are interested in applicants who have experience of managing quality assurance/ are located in devolved higher education settings (Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland).

To apply for this role please submit the following as separate documents; CV Supporting statement, up to 1,250 words, you should set out in your statement why you’re interested in this role and provide examples of where your skills and experience meet the required competencies for this role as detailed in the job and person specification. Early closing date: We may close this job advert earlier than the published closing date where a satisfactory number of applications are received. We would therefore encourage early applications.

The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion which is reflected in our mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. We aim to foster a diverse and inclusive environment so that all in our OU community can reach their potential. We recognise that different people bring different perspectives, ideas, knowledge, and culture, and that this difference brings great strength. We strive to recruit, retain and develop the careers of a diverse pool of students and staff, and particularly encourage applications from all underrepresented groups. We also aspire to make The Open University a supportive workplace for all through our policies, services and staff networks.

Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards employer: The Open University UK

The Open University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity, staff can thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to the enhancement of academic quality and standards. Located in Milton Keynes, the role of Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards provides unique opportunities to engage with a diverse student population and influence institutional practices, making it a rewarding place to work.
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Contact Detail:

The Open University UK Recruiting Team

Careers@open.ac.uk

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the UK Quality Code for Higher Education and other relevant external frameworks. Understanding these standards will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to academic quality and compliance.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the higher education sector, especially those involved in quality assurance. Engaging with them can provide insights into current challenges and best practices, which you can discuss during your interview.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to showcase your leadership experience by thinking of specific examples where you've successfully managed teams or projects related to quality assurance. Highlighting your ability to lead under pressure will be crucial.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on recent changes in educational policies and quality assurance regulations. Being knowledgeable about current trends will show your proactive approach and dedication to maintaining high academic standards.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards

Operational Leadership Expertise
Quality Assurance Management
Policy Development
Process Improvement
Stakeholder Engagement
Project Management
Written and Verbal Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Organisational Skills
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Team Leadership and Development
Knowledge of External Quality Assurance Frameworks
Experience in Higher Education Sector
Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Experience with External Reviews and Accreditations

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.

Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is crucial. Use it to explain why you're interested in this role and provide specific examples of your skills and experiences that meet the competencies required. Keep it concise but impactful, aiming for clarity and relevance.

Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on experiences that demonstrate your operational leadership, process improvement, and stakeholder engagement expertise. Use quantifiable achievements where possible to illustrate your impact in previous roles.

Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and supporting statement. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-structured and easy to read. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.

How to prepare for a job interview at The Open University UK

✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

Before the interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the responsibilities and expectations of the Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards role. Familiarise yourself with the key quality assurance processes and external frameworks relevant to the position.

✨Prepare Examples of Leadership

Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've successfully led teams or managed quality assurance processes. Highlight your ability to motivate and develop colleagues, as this is crucial for the leadership aspect of the role.

✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities by discussing past challenges you've faced in quality assurance settings. Be specific about how you approached these issues and the outcomes of your actions.

✨Engage with Stakeholder Management

Since stakeholder engagement is key in this role, think of examples where you've effectively communicated and collaborated with diverse groups. Be prepared to explain how you navigated complex situations and influenced outcomes.

Senior Manager, Academic Quality & Standards
The Open University UK
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