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- Tasks: Lead operations and strategy for a cutting-edge research institute focused on digital security.
- Company: The Bath Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour, a leader in interdisciplinary research.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension schemes, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Full-time role with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- 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 75000 - 100000 £ 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.
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 prioritization
- 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
About You
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
Additional information
This role is offered on a full-time (36.5 hours per week), permanent basis.
Benefits
- Free counselling services through Health Assured
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym
- Staff discounts on postgraduate tuition fees
- Staff discount on language courses
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days for work-life balance
- A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities including Apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning and more
- Free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- Local discounts and more
- A family-friendly workplace
- An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
- Relocation allowance
- Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with immigration expenses
We are signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant and are committed to equality and diversity, including a commitment to Safer Recruitment. We welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Director of Operations (Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour) employer: University of Bath
Contact Detail:
University of Bath Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations (Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour)
✨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 places like the Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Institute’s mission and recent projects. Think about how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in operational leadership and financial management. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your achievements in governance, operations, and team management. This can really set you apart when discussing your fit for the role.
✨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, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations (Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour)
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 your experiences in engaging with external collaborators. We love seeing how you’ve built relationships and worked across different teams to achieve results.
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 IDSB. 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, focusing on collaboration and performance. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a tangible impact.
✨Master Financial Management Insights
Given the emphasis on financial management in the role, be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. Bring along examples of how you've navigated financial challenges and ensured compliance with policies, showcasing your strategic thinking.
✨Prepare for Strategic Conversations
Expect questions about how you would translate strategy into action. Think about how you can engage with external collaborators and governance bodies effectively. Prepare to discuss your approach to operational planning and how you would monitor the Institute’s strategy.