The University of Manchester Library is one of only five National Research Libraries and the third largest academic library in the UK. Our vast and rich collections (both print and increasingly digital) help us to deliver a world-class library and information service for the University of Manchester. While our primary objective is to meet the learning, teaching and research needs of University members, we are also fully committed to widening access to our services to individual researchers, local schools and others in the regional community.
The Subscriptions team plays a vital role in ensuring seamless access to a wide range of digital and print resources that support research, teaching, and learning. The team is responsible for managing the acquisition, renewal, and licensing of journals, databases, and other subscription-based content. Working closely with library colleagues, publishers, and consortia, the team ensures cost-effective procurement and negotiates favourable terms to maximize value for the University community.
Overall purpose of the job:
* To provide data-driven insights and reporting that directly support the effective management and strategic allocation of the Library’s content budget, ensuring value for money and alignment with institutional priorities
* To liaise with Collection Strategies colleagues and be responsible for the gathering and analysis of their growing management information needs.
* To lead on the design and development of business intelligence reports and dashboards and to provide high quality management information services, statistical analysis and data visualisation services
* To provide an efficient and effective analysis service to the Collection Strategies Directorate and to report and make recommendations for use by the University of Manchester Library services
* To interrogate and query new datasets as required and analyse them to provide complex statistical analyses to inform policies and practices
* To lead on the analysis of the data management needs of the Subscriptions Team and be responsible for the design and maintenance of appropriate databases that will automate much of the work of the team.
The ideal candidate will be a highly analytical and adaptable professional with a strong background in data analysis, statistical reporting, and business intelligence. They will take lead responsibility for the design, development, and delivery of high-quality management information services within the Subscriptions Team, using tools such as Power BI, Microsoft Office applications, and various database systems. Proficiency in querying and interrogating complex datasets, along with the ability to present findings clearly through visual, written, and spoken formats, is essential.
They will demonstrate excellent problem-solving skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work independently under pressure to meet tight deadlines. Strong communication and collaboration skills are vital, as the role involves working closely with colleagues across the Collection Strategies Directorate and representing the Library in national and international forums.
The candidate must be comfortable leading on statistical analysis, managing performance data, and supporting strategic decision-making through evidence-based insights. A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as experience working in a higher education or academic library environment, will be highly valued.
The benefits
* Market-leading pension scheme
* Excellent starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
* Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
* Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
* Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
Hours & Place of Work
Normal working hours are 35 hours per week. The Library operates within a hybrid working framework and this role has been categorised as ‘Hybrid’, which requires regular campus-based work but offers the flexibility for some remote working. The role will include a mixture of on-campus and remote working with a requirement to work on campus two days per week.
Our University is positive about flexible working you can find out more here.
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. As we are committed to the principles of the Race Equality Charter Mark, we would particularly welcome applications from people who have Black, Asian or Ethnic minority heritage or backgrounds, who are currently under-represented at this level. All appointments will be made on merit.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies. Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria. You should demonstrate how you meet each of the criteria required in the person specification by giving specific examples in the “additional information” section of the online application form.
We welcome enquiries about the vacancy and encourage you to get in touch if you would like an informal chat about the role.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Helen Monagle
Email: helen.monagle@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.