At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of digital tools for seamless collaboration and innovation.
- Company: Join the University of Manchester, a pioneer in technology and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 29 days leave, flexible working, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking team committed to continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by empowering staff and students with cutting-edge digital tools.
- Qualifications: Experience with collaboration platforms and a passion for innovation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About The University of Manchester
At the University of Manchester, our legacy is built on a history of progression and a pioneering spirit. As the birthplace of the first stored program computer, the first modern computer with a hardware floating point unit, the first transistor computer and the first computer to use virtual memory, the University of Manchester has always been a place where bold ideas in technology are nurtured, and innovation thrives. We will now be the first university in the world to provide equitable access to Microsoft 365 Copilot by making the tool available to 65,000 colleagues and students.
The role of Head - Digital Workplace has been created to ensure our staff and students have access to world-class digital tools that empower them to connect, create, and collaborate seamlessly. As our ways of working evolve, we need someone who can lead the transformation of our productivity platforms—ensuring they are intuitive, innovative and aligned with the needs of our diverse university community.
The Head - Digital Workplace will also play a critical role in helping to deliver the University's ambitious rollout of M365 Copilot to all its staff and students. The postholder will implement meaningful change by ensuring equitable access to AI capabilities; providing cutting-edge platforms that are secure and user-friendly; and championing user adoption, efficiency and digitally-driven innovations.
About the Role
You will oversee the entire lifecycle of our collaboration and productivity platforms—from strategic planning to day-to-day operations. In this role, you'll lead a dedicated team responsible for tools such as Microsoft 365 (including Teams, SharePoint, Exchange, Power Platform, and Purview), Zoom, Dropbox, and Jira/Confluence, as well as telephony services.
Your remit goes beyond traditional IT management: you will be an ambassador for innovation and change. Working closely with senior leadership, you'll develop and execute long-term strategies that align our technological capabilities with the University's ambitious goals (e.g. M365 Copilot rollout!). You'll also be responsible for driving user adoption and engagement, ensuring that our platforms not only function smoothly but also empower our staff and students to work smarter and more collaboratively. This involves actively exploring emerging technologies to unlock new opportunities for efficiency and creativity.
On the operational side, you'll manage budgets, monitor vendor performance, and ensure that service levels are maintained, all while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and creative problem-solving within your team. Your leadership will ensure that our collaboration services are resilient, user-focused, and poised to meet the evolving needs of our community.
Person specification
We're looking for someone who brings not just technical expertise, but also a passion for innovation and inclusivity. You have a strategic mind and an ability to see the big picture, yet you're equally comfortable getting hands-on to address the details. Your experience managing collaboration platforms in complex environments has given you a keen sense of how technology can transform the way people work together.
You're adept at engaging with stakeholders at all levels, translating complex technical concepts into meaningful outcomes that resonate with diverse audiences. Above all, you are forward-thinking and resilient. You see the potential in emerging technologies and are eager to harness them to improve productivity and user experience. Whether your background is traditional or non-traditional, if you are driven by curiosity, committed to continuous learning, and ready to make a significant impact, you are exactly the kind of innovative, inclusive leader we need.
What We Would Love to See From you:
- Experience with Collaboration Platforms: Whether you've managed or supported tools like Microsoft 365, Zoom, Dropbox, or Jira/Confluence in any capacity, a practical familiarity with cloud-based collaboration is key.
- Technical Curiosity: A foundational understanding of how these platforms work, with a willingness to learn and explore emerging technologies—like AI-powered tools such as Microsoft Copilot—is highly valued.
- Strategic & Operational Insight: An ability to balance strategic planning with day-to-day operations, including basic experience with budgeting, vendor relationships, or IT service management.
- Collaborative Leadership: A track record (or potential) for fostering an inclusive team environment, where you can empower colleagues, encourage creativity, and drive user adoption.
- Commitment to Continuous Improvement: A passion for exploring new solutions and a mindset geared towards iterative progress in both technology and teamwork.
Salary / Package
This is a grade 8 leadership position offering a competitive salary (depending on experience), along with 29 days annual leave (plus 4 closure days over Christmas and 8 bank holidays), flexible working (office based at least two days a week) and an attractive pension scheme (up to 21%).
The closing date for applications is on 27/02/2026. First stage interviews are expected to take place week commencing 09/03/2026, with formal interviews from w/c 16/03/2026.
Hays Technology have been retained by The University of Manchester to manage the recruitment of this role. For all enquiries, please contact Mark Hamilton at Hays Technology.
Head of Digital Workplace in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to innovation and inclusivity in the digital workplace. With a focus on empowering staff and students through cutting-edge technology like Microsoft 365 Copilot, the university fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages continuous learning and professional growth. Employees benefit from a competitive salary, generous leave entitlements, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive environment that champions creativity and user engagement.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Digital Workplace in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or even alumni from the University of Manchester. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the role that you won't find in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the latest trends in digital workplace technology. Show us that you're not just familiar with tools like Microsoft 365, but that you're also excited about how they can transform collaboration at the university.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Digital Workplace. We want to hear how you've driven user adoption and innovation in past roles—make it personal and relatable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our team at the University of Manchester.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Digital Workplace in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Innovation:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for technology and innovation shine through. We want to see how you can bring fresh ideas to the table and help us transform our digital workplace.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your experience with collaboration platforms like Microsoft 365, Zoom, or Jira/Confluence. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've used these tools to drive user engagement and improve productivity.
Be Strategic and Operational:Balance your application by showcasing both your strategic thinking and operational skills. We need someone who can plan for the future while also managing day-to-day operations effectively.
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 ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the University of Manchester.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the collaboration platforms mentioned in the job description, like Microsoft 365, Zoom, and Jira/Confluence. Brush up on their features and how they can enhance productivity. Being able to discuss specific tools and their impact on user experience will show your technical curiosity and strategic insight.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your collaborative leadership skills. Think about times when you’ve empowered a team or driven user adoption of new technologies. This role is all about fostering an inclusive environment, so be ready to discuss how you encourage creativity and continuous improvement within your team.
✨Align with Their Vision
Research the University of Manchester’s goals, especially regarding the rollout of M365 Copilot. Be prepared to articulate how your vision for the digital workplace aligns with their ambitions. Showing that you understand their mission and can contribute to it will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve engaged with various stakeholders in previous roles. Prepare to discuss how you translate complex technical concepts into meaningful outcomes for diverse audiences. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and ensure that everyone is on board with new initiatives.
