At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital transformation and operational improvement at the University of Bradford.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking university committed to student success and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and the chance to shape the future of education.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with strong support networks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on how a university operates and delivers services.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading digital and operational transformation.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
This role forms part of the deliberate strengthening of the University’s Executive Team to deliver Strategy 2035, bringing in additional leadership capacity across student success, growth, digital transformation, operational effectiveness and organisational capability.
The University of Bradford is entering a significant phase of transformation and is seeking a commercially minded, technology-driven Chief Digital and Operations Officer to help redesign how the institution operates, delivers and performs. Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, the CDOO is a pivotal executive role responsible for leading enterprise-wide digital transformation, operational improvement and service redesign.
You will drive Strategic Priority 4: A University that Works Better, modernising systems, simplifying processes and embedding a more agile, data-informed and performance-focused operating model. This is a large-scale transformation brief. You will lead the evolution of core platforms, digital infrastructure and data capability, ensuring that technology investment directly supports institutional performance, user experience and long-term sustainability.
You will also play a key role in introducing automation, AI and emerging technologies to improve efficiency, insight and service delivery. Beyond technology, the role is fundamentally about how the University operates. You will reshape operating models, improve cross-institutional alignment and build the delivery discipline required to turn strategy into measurable outcomes. This includes leading major transformation programmes, strengthening planning and prioritisation, and ensuring that services are designed around user needs.
As a member of the Executive Team, you will contribute to the leadership of the whole institution, working across academic and professional boundaries to ensure that digital and operational capabilities underpin growth, student success, and organisational performance.
We welcome candidates from a higher education background and from other complex, customer-focused sectors such as healthcare, financial services, retail, technology or government. You will bring a strong track record of leading digital and operational transformation at scale, with clear evidence of improving performance, efficiency and user experience. You will be comfortable operating in complex, regulated environments and influencing across a broad stakeholder landscape.
Above all, you will be a delivery-focused leader who combines strategic thinking with execution, able to cut through complexity, build momentum and ensure that transformation results in tangible, sustained improvement. This is an opportunity to shape the future operating model of a purpose-driven institution, applying digital, data and innovation to create a more effective, responsive and future-ready university.
At the University of Bradford we accept people for who they are regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sex, marital status, ethnicity, faith, sexual orientation or socio-economic background and whether you’re pregnant or on maternity leave. In line with the University’s commitment to equality charters including Athena Swan, Race Equality Charter, Disability Confident and Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme, we welcome applications from people identifying with these characteristics. The University has a number of staff networks which provide peer support and safe spaces for staff who hold these and other identities.
Chief Digital and Operations Officer in Bradford employer: University of Bradford
The University of Bradford is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the university provides numerous opportunities for professional growth and development, ensuring that employees can thrive in their careers while contributing to meaningful change in higher education. Located on a vibrant campus, staff benefit from a supportive culture that values every individual's contribution towards achieving the ambitious goals outlined in Strategy 2035.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Digital and Operations Officer in Bradford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the higher education sector or related fields. Attend events, webinars, and workshops to meet people who can help you get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a personal website or LinkedIn profile that highlights your achievements in digital transformation and operational improvement. Make it easy for potential employers to see what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the University of Bradford's current initiatives and challenges. Tailor your responses to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around Strategy 2035.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Digital and Operations Officer in Bradford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in digital transformation and operational improvement. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at the University of Bradford.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've led successful projects or initiatives. We love seeing tangible results that demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for a delivery-focused leader who can connect with others, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and what drives you.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bradford
✨Know Your Digital Transformation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in digital transformation and operational improvement. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led similar initiatives in the past, focusing on measurable outcomes and user experience.
✨Understand the University’s Strategy 2035
Familiarise yourself with the University of Bradford's Strategy 2035. Think about how your skills and experiences align with their goals, especially around student success and organisational capability. This will show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Questions
Expect questions about how you would engage with various stakeholders across the institution. Have examples ready that demonstrate your ability to influence and collaborate effectively in complex environments.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach, particularly in driving change and building cross-institutional alignment. Highlight your experience in leading teams through transformation and how you ensure everyone is on board with the vision.
