At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and strategy for a cutting-edge research institute focused on digital security.
- Company: Bath Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour, a leader in interdisciplinary research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and commitment to diversity.
- Other info: Join a diverse community dedicated to innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in digital security while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in higher education or research, strong financial management skills.
The predicted salary is between 47389 - 56535 £ per year.
The Bath Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour (IDSB) is seeking a dedicated Institute Operations Director to provide senior operational and strategic leadership for a leading interdisciplinary research institute. IDSB unites expertise across social, behavioural, computer, and data sciences to tackle the complex challenges of digital security. Working in partnership with academia, industry, government, and the public, we co‑design secure, inclusive, and effective digital systems with national and global impact.
As Operations Director, you will ensure the efficient running of the Institute and support the delivery of its strategic objectives. You will provide leadership across finance, governance, operations, and people management, translating strategy into action and enabling a high‑performing research environment. You will work closely with the Institute Directors and Deputy Directors and engage with senior University collaborators, external partners, and governance bodies responsible for oversight and strategic direction.
Key responsibilities- Lead delivery and monitoring of the Institute’s strategy, including benchmarks, reporting frameworks, and operational planning
- Ensure effective governance and compliance with University policies and external funding requirements
- Coordinate financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and prioritisation
- Support governance structures, including boards, committees, and advisory groups
- Guide and grow professional services staff, ensuring strong performance and team capability
- Coordinate operational systems, infrastructure, and physical resources, including Institute premises
- Produce high‑quality reports, briefings, and strategic documentation for internal and external audiences
- Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high‑performing Institute culture
You are an experienced operational leader with a proven background in higher education, research institutes, or similarly complex organisations. You are skilled at working across strategy, operations, and collaborating with partners, and you can transform plans into seamless results.
You will bring:
- Demonstrated leadership background in higher education or a research setting
- Strong financial management experience, including budget ownership and reporting
- Experience engaging with external collaborators (e.g., funders, government, industry)
- Excellent communication, influencing, and negotiation skills at senior level
- Ability to guide and grow multidisciplinary teams
- Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail in reporting and documentation
This role is offered on a full‑time (36.5 hours per week), permanent basis. Informal enquiries may be made to Professor Adam Joinson via email at aj266@bath.ac.uk; however please ensure that you submit your application through the university website.
We consider ourselves a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality, receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds and communities, particularly from under‑represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.
We’re very proud to be a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, an accredited Disability Confident Leader, an autism‑friendly university, committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff.
Please apply via the ‘Apply’ button above.
£47,389 to £56,535. Grade 8
Director of Operations (Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour) in Bath employer: University of Bath
The Bath Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour (IDSB) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that values diversity and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the institute provides opportunities for professional development within a high-performing research environment, all while making a significant impact on digital security at both national and global levels. Located in a vibrant university setting, IDSB fosters a supportive atmosphere where innovative ideas thrive, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations (Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour) in Bath
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the higher education and research sectors. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to chat with folks who might know about opportunities at the Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the Institute's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the mission of tackling digital security challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Operations Director role. Highlight your leadership skills and financial management expertise to make a strong impression.
✨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 Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations (Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour) in Bath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational leadership, especially in higher education or research settings. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of the Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour.
Showcase Your Financial Savvy:Since financial management is key for this role, don’t forget to include examples of your budgeting and reporting experience. We’re looking for someone who can handle finances like a pro, so let that shine through!
Highlight Collaboration Skills:This position involves working with various partners, so share instances where you’ve successfully engaged with external collaborators. We love seeing how you can build relationships and drive results through teamwork.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we want a polished application, don’t be afraid to let your personality come through. Show us your passion for digital security and how you can contribute to a collaborative and inclusive culture at the Institute. Remember to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bath
✨Know the Institute Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the Bath Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour. Understand their mission, recent projects, and how they collaborate with various sectors. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and align your experience with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Operations Director, it's crucial to articulate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in complex environments, particularly in higher education or research settings. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and inclusivity within multidisciplinary teams.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Given the emphasis on financial management in the role, be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. Bring specific examples of how you've managed finances in previous roles, and be prepared to talk about how you would approach financial challenges at the Institute.
✨Engage with Strategic Vision
The interviewers will want to see how you can translate strategy into action. Think about how you've previously developed and implemented operational plans that align with an organisation's strategic objectives. Be ready to discuss how you would monitor progress and adapt strategies as needed.
