Join to apply for the Director of Quality & Planning role at International Baccalaureate
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Location: International Baccalaureate Global Centre, Cardiff or Washington DC
Hybrid working opportunity
About the Job
The Director of Quality & Planning reports to the Chief Assessment & Operations Officer and is responsible for leading and managing three functions within the Assessment and Operations Office: Planning & Analysis, Quality, and Continuous Improvement & Implementation.
As a strategic partner within the Assessment and Operations Office Leadership Team, the Director plays a crucial role in driving operational excellence, identifying and delivering efficiencies across Assessment & Operations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
Responsibilities
* Develop and execute the strategic vision for Planning & Analysis, Quality, and Continuous Improvement & Implementation functions.
* Align departmental goals with the overall objectives of the Assessment and Operations Office and the organization.
* Drive innovation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across the Assessment and Operations Office.
* Overall accountability for capacity planning, resource efficiency, and forecasting to ensure optimal operational performance.
* Accountable for data analysis efforts to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
* Ensure robust business continuity planning and reporting mechanisms are established and maintained.
* Foster a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the team.
* Direct root cause analysis and quality assurance activities to maintain high standards of operational excellence.
* Champion continuous improvement initiatives and process optimization, driving efficiency and effectiveness across the Assessment and Operations Office.
* Overall accountability for compliance with industry regulations and organizational policies, mitigating risks wherever possible.
* Manage relationships with outsourced partners to ensure quality and efficiency.
* Lead Assessment and Operations focused transformations and change management initiatives, exploring and implementing innovative solutions to enhance operations and quality.
* Lead the adoption of new technologies, processes, and methodologies within the Assessment and Operations Office.
* Ensure effective communication and training during the implementation of change initiatives.
* Recruit, develop, and mentor a high‑performing team.
* Set performance objectives, conduct regular reviews and 1:1s, and provide feedback to team members.
* Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment that encourages innovation and continuous improvement.
* Collaborate with other departments and senior leadership to ensure alignment and support for Assessment and Operations initiatives.
* Act as a key point of contact for operational issues, providing expert advice and solutions.
* Represent the Assessment and Operations Office in cross‑functional projects and initiatives, advocating for operational excellence.
Qualifications
* An MBA or a Degree in a relevant field.
* Substantial experience in a similar role within an assessment delivery organization.
* Deep understanding and experience of strategic planning and execution.
* Excellent knowledge of best practices in operational efficiency.
* Expertise in quality assurance, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.
* Expert knowledge with change management principles and the adoption of new technologies and processes.
* Knowledge of change management software and tools (e.g., Prosci, ADKAR).
* Comprehensive knowledge of industry regulations and organizational policies.
* Extensive experience in leading data analysis efforts to drive operational improvements.
* Proficiency in data analysis tools and software (e.g., Excel, SQL, Tableau, Power BI).
* Demonstrated ability collaborating with senior leadership.
* Expertise in project management methodologies and tools (e.g., PMP, Agile).
* Demonstrated strong leadership capabilities with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
* Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, for effective stakeholder engagement and team management.
* Exceptional problem‑solving abilities to identify and address operational inefficiencies.
* Flexibility and adaptability to manage change and drive innovation.
Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, we offer an attractive range of regional benefits.
For UK employees:
* 10% employer pension contribution with a 3% employee contribution
* Annual pay review with bonus eligibility
* Enhanced family‑friendly benefits
* 30 Days annual leave, plus public holidays
* Life assurance 4x annual salary
* Flexible working hours (core hours are 10am‑12pm and 2pm‑3pm), 37.5 hours per week
* Paid volunteering leave (one day per calendar year)
* Flexible benefits allowance equivalent to 1.5% of Annual Salary to spend on benefits or as addition to salary
* Excellent continuous professional development
* Health and Wellness Schemes
* Disability Confident Employer
* Cycle to Work Scheme
* Discounts on a range of products, including days out and Gym Memberships
* Cash back opportunities available from a wide range of retailers
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Free onsite parking
For US employees:
* 10% employer pension contribution with a 3% employee contribution
* Annual pay review with bonus eligibility
* Enhanced family‑friendly benefits
* 30 Days annual leave, plus public holidays
* Life assurance 4x annual salary
* Paid volunteering leave
* Excellent continuous professional development
Applications will be accepted until 11.55pm BST, 05 December 2025
We are committed to building a working environment that values respect, diversity, and compassion. The International Baccalaureate is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified applicants.
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