At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital transformation and operational excellence in IT services and AI.
- Company: Top modern university in London, renowned for research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, extensive benefits package, and discounts at over 200 retailers.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of technology services and enhance student experiences.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in IT, service management, and AI adoption.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
Who we are: Rated a top three modern University in London, we provide an engaging portfolio of apprenticeships, short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. We also have an excellent research profile and were jointly recognised as the best modern university in the country for research, and the highest-ranked modern university in London in REF2021.
The Role: Transform digital services. Build operational excellence. Enable responsible AI. The University of Roehampton is embarking on an ambitious programme of digital, data and technology transformation underpinned by a new Digital Strategy. We are seeking an exceptional leader to join us as Director of IT Services & AI, a newly created senior role that will play a critical part in shaping and delivering the future of technology services across the University.
Reporting to the Chief Information Officer, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for IT services, ensuring that our digital estate is secure, reliable, customer-focused and aligned with the University's academic and corporate ambitions. You will lead the full breadth of IT delivery across the University — including infrastructure, enterprise applications, service management, supplier performance and operational resilience — while driving continuous improvement and the safe adoption of AI-enabled capabilities.
This is an opportunity for an experienced technology leader to build high-performing teams, embed strong governance and operational discipline, and deliver measurable improvements to service quality, user experience and organisational efficiency. You will play a central role in developing a modern service organisation that combines operational excellence with innovation.
We are looking for someone with:
- Significant leadership experience within a complex IT or digital services environment.
- A strong track record in service management, operational improvement and organisational leadership.
- Experience managing suppliers, budgets, performance frameworks and technology risk.
- The ability to drive the safe and effective adoption of AI and automation within operational services.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to influence at senior levels.
At Roehampton, you will help shape a modern digital university, supporting outstanding student experience, research and organisational effectiveness while building the foundations for the next generation of AI-enabled services. Join us and help deliver a digital future that is trusted, resilient and innovative.
If you have any specific questions on the role, please contact Ian Dickens, CIO. The University is committed to promoting diversity and equality of opportunity and aims to create a culture and environment where students and staff are treated fairly. The University is an equal opportunities and ‘disability confident’ employer.
Staff have access to our highly competitive RoePlus benefits package ranging from sector leading family related leave, discounts at over 200 high street shops and brands, discounted IT hardware and software and a University’s Retirement Savings Group Pension Plan, a defined contribution scheme.
The closing date for completed applications is: Monday 21st September 2026. It is expected that interviews will be held on Wednesday 14th October 2026 (In Person).
Grade RS03 Senior Scale, Competitive Salary.
Director of IT Services & AI, Full time employer: University of Roehampton
The University of Roehampton is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises diversity and equality. Located in the picturesque setting of south-west London, staff enjoy access to excellent facilities and a generous benefits package, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development. As a Visiting Lecturer, you will be part of a supportive team that values innovative teaching methods and student engagement, making it a rewarding environment for those passionate about education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of IT Services & AI, Full time
✨Join the IT Consultancy Buzz
Get involved in local or virtual IT consultancy meetups and forums. This is where we can rub shoulders with industry professionals, get insights into what University of Roehampton values, and even spot unadvertised opportunities. Don't miss out on these chances to make a name for ourselves in the IT world!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a personal project or case study relevant to the challenges University of Roehampton might face. Use platforms like GitHub or Medium to share your findings. This not only demonstrates our consulting skills but shows a proactive attitude, making us stand out from the crowd when applying for that full-time gig.
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Follow and engage with the relevant thought leaders and influencers in IT consultancy on LinkedIn. Share insightful content and join discussions to gain visibility. A well-placed comment or shared article could catch the attention of someone at University of Roehampton!
✨Direct Apply to University of Roehampton
Let's not forget to apply directly through the University of Roehampton website! Tailor your application to showcase our understanding of their consulting style and how we can contribute to their projects. A personalised approach can make a huge difference in landing that full-time position!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of IT Services & AI, Full time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In IT consulting, it's all about problem-solving, so make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills and any relevant projects you've tackled. Mention specific technologies or methodologies you've used to resolve issues or improve processes; this shows you can think critically and deliver results, which is vital for us at University of Roehampton.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Certifications like ITIL, PMP, or even specific tech stack qualifications can really make you stand out. Make sure to include these in your CV, as they not only demonstrate your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at University of Roehampton. Share stories about your experiences in IT consulting, and how they shaped your desire to join our team. Mention why you’re excited about this particular role, and how you see yourself contributing to our projects.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We're all busy, so make sure your application is easy to read. Use bullet points for key achievements, and don’t overload us with jargon. A clean, professional layout goes a long way. Remember, the clearer your application, the more likely we are to invite you in for an interview!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Roehampton
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Skills
For an IT consulting role, be ready to demonstrate your technical prowess. You might face questions on systems integration, cloud technologies, or even troubleshooting specific software. If you have experience with tools like AWS, Azure, or even specific programming languages, make sure you can talk about them fluently.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Approach
IT consulting is all about solving problems for clients. Think about how you can illustrate your approach to a past challenge using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It's a great way to show how you tackle complex issues and come up with effective solutions.
✨Know the Business Impact of IT Solutions
When discussing your experiences, focus not just on the tech solutions you implemented, but also on their business impact. Employers want to see that you can connect IT with organisational goals. Prep examples that highlight how your tech contributions improved efficiency or reduced costs for past clients or projects.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since IT consulting often involves teamwork and client interactions, expect behavioural questions that assess your interpersonal skills. Be prepared with examples that demonstrate your adaptability, communication skills, and how you handle client feedback. Before the interview, think of situations where you worked closely with clients to create effective IT strategies or changes.
