Associate director - digital solutions & innovation

As part of an exciting digital transformation, the University of Surrey is seeking a Head Digital Solutions & Innovation.

You will lead and manage a multi-disciplinary IT Development, innovation and support function which continues to evolve and meet the University’s technology needs, working to transform our applications, data, AI and related technologies to support our strategic Digital & Data plan.

We value, empower and support every member of staff to get the best out of your unique talents, so you'll be rewarded with a generous salary, 32 days holiday PLUS Bank Holidays, pension contribution of 14.5%, and a unique and vibrant working environment.

Role & Responsibilities

You will be responsible for the University’s academic and business applications, data, integration services, AI solutions, Microsoft applications and bespoke developments, ensuring high availability, resilience, and excellent user experience across all digital services.

The role will operate as a senior and visible leader and will manage the University’s live applications and data services, promoting and developing operational excellence and service ownership and technology leadership in every aspect of the service.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, maintenance, improvement and optimisation of academic and business applications, data, integration services, AI solutions, Microsoft Solutions and bespoke developments, ensuring that they are reliable, efficient, secure and meet the business need.
• Manage IT and digital development activities, across academic and business applications, data lifecycle, integration services, Microsoft ecosystem and artificial intelligence.
• Ensure adherence to service levels and development KPIs, evolving the service to meet business needs.
• Lead service improvement initiatives in line with Information Technology Infrastructure Library and related best practices.
• Manage supplier relationships and proactively monitor service levels, ensuring good vendor management and deriving value for money.

The IT team at Surrey are plugged in to the whole University, and our digital transformation work underpins the University’s strategy. IT is growing our digital transformation capability, improving student experience, and helping increase our research impact.

It’s a vibrant and exciting time to join a great and well-respected team at the heart of the University’s strategic plans.

What’s in it for you?

We think Surrey is an amazing place to work, and we are carefully crafting a dynamic, flexible, and fun place to work and thrive.

Our campus is a beautiful, leafy environment with carefully designed gardens, vibrant green playing fields, and a picturesque lake. With the buzz of student life and superb working facilities, the University is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research in an inspiring, innovative and diverse environment.

Alongside our gorgeous campus setting, collegiate on‑site atmosphere and plentiful development opportunities, we also offer:

• Competitive Salary
• Market leading Pension
• Up to 40 DAYS Holiday: 25 Days annual leave + 7 University Days + Bank Holidays
• Travel & Family benefits including subsidised rail fare, cycle to work scheme and on‑site childcare
• Access to on‑site leisure facilities at discounted rates

For more information or to be considered for the role, please apply via the University of Surrey Website.

The University is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore, we particularly encourage applications from under‑represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.