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- Tasks: Lead operations and manage a diverse team in a dynamic academic environment.
- Company: Join the University of Cambridge's vibrant Department of Zoology.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on teaching and research while driving change.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior management within higher education and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a friendly and inclusive department.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Department of Zoology is looking for an experienced manager to join us as our Business and Operations Manager. This role covers a broad range of operational responsibilities and contributes strategically to the smooth and successful running of the Department, in support of our mission of excellence in teaching and research. The postholder will be based on-site in the department located in Cambridge and will manage professional services staff and advise senior academic colleagues on strategy, planning and policy options.
Responsibilities
- Directly manage 5 reports and have responsibility for all professional services staff (c.50) who provide services in HR, finance, research and teaching support, buildings and facilities, committees, communications, compliance and other operational areas.
- Advise the Head of Department and other senior academic staff on strategy, planning and policy issues and options.
- Collaborate closely with other Departments in the School of the Biological Sciences and with colleagues in the University central administration.
- Support the ongoing major programme of change in the management and operations of the organisation and ensure the Department adopts and benefits from these changes.
About the Department and Role
The Department comprises around 250 people including University academics, principal investigators, postgraduate students, a vibrant post-doc community and a committed team of professional service staff. Zoology is a thriving Department united by a fascination with the living world. Our mission is to understand how life evolves, how it functions, and how we can conserve it for the future. We disseminate this new knowledge through local, national and global networks of influence to confront the greatest challenges of our time: restoring and protecting biodiversity, enhancing food security and improving human health. We have a reputation as a friendly and supportive Department. We are based in the historic city centre of Cambridge on the New Museums Site, adjacent to the Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI), with whom we share the David Attenborough Building. The University Museum of Zoology is embedded within the Department.
Person Specification / Qualifications
You will have sustained experience operating at a senior level in a complex and devolved organisation, ideally within higher education administration. Proven skills in staff management, team leadership, problem-solving, change management, planning, resource management, contributing to strategy, and the ability to work effectively with staff, students and external stakeholders. Ability to operate flexibly across a wide-ranging role with a wide variety of tasks and stakeholders, including senior professors and professional services staff.
Applications and Selection
This is an exciting time to join the Department and University in a professional services role, as we embark on a major programme of change. The role holder will be responsible for ensuring the Department adopts these changes and benefits from them in due course. Your application, along with a covering letter, should clearly set out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the skills and experience required for the role) along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted based upon these criteria. The University of Cambridge is committed to supporting our staff to thrive both professionally and personally. Interviews are expected during the week beginning 16 March 2026. Flexible working requests will be considered. It is intended that the successful candidate will undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check), a health assessment and a security check prior to employment. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our University.
How to Apply
Click the "Apply" button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Paulina Lasocka or Anastasia Nezhentseva at hr@zoo.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference PF48722 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Business and Operations Manager in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business and Operations Manager in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of the Department of Zoology on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the team culture and what they really value in a Business and Operations Manager.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in higher education administration. We want to show that we’re not just familiar with the role, but also passionate about the mission of the department and how we can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with us. Focus on articulating our experience in staff management and change management, as these are key areas for the role. The more comfortable we are, the better we’ll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team at the University of Cambridge. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Business and Operations Manager in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the Business and Operations Manager role. We want to see your personality shine through while keeping it professional!
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your skills in staff management, problem-solving, and change management. We love seeing real-life scenarios where you've made a difference, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where appropriate to make it easy for us to read. Remember, we’re looking for clarity in your communication style, so make every word count!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application. Plus, if you have any questions, you can reach out directly to our HR team for support.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the Department of Zoology's mission and current projects. Familiarise yourself with their strategic goals, especially around biodiversity and conservation, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with their objectives.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare specific examples that highlight your experience in managing teams and leading change. Think about times when you've successfully navigated complex organisational challenges and how you can apply those skills to support the Department's ongoing programme of change.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to discuss how you would collaborate with various stakeholders, including senior academic staff and professional services teams. Highlight your communication skills and provide examples of how you've effectively worked with diverse groups in the past.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a few insightful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the Department. Consider asking about their vision for the future or how they measure success in this position.
