About the Role:
At the University of Manchester, our legacy is built on a history of progression, and a pioneering spirit. As the birthplace of the first stored program computer, the first modern computer with a hardware floating point unit, the first transistor computer and the first computer to use virtual memory, the University of Manchester has always been a place where bold ideas in technology are nurtured, and innovation thrives. We will now be the first university in the world to provide equitable access to Microsoft 365 Copilot by making the tool available to 65,000 colleagues and students.
The role of Head - Digital Workplace has been created to ensure our staff and students have access to world-class digital tools that empower them to connect, create, and collaborate seamlessly. As our ways of working evolve, we need someone who can lead the transformation of our productivity platformsensuring they are intuitive, innovative and aligned with the needs of our diverse university community.
The Head Digital Workplace will also play a critical role in helping to deliver the University’s ambitious rollout of M365 Copilot to all its staff and students. The postholder will implement meaningful change by ensuring equitable access to AI capabilities; providing cutting-edge platforms that are secure and user-friendly; and championing user adoption, efficiency and digitally-driven innovations.
About the Role:
At the University of Manchester, the Head - Digital Workplace helps shape the way our diverse community connects and collaborates. You will oversee the entire lifecycle of our collaboration and productivity platformsfrom strategic planning to day-to-day operations. In this role, you’ll lead a dedicated team responsible for tools such as Microsoft 365 (including Teams, SharePoint, Exchange, Power Platform, and Purview), Zoom, Dropbox, and Jira/Confluence, as well as telephony services.
Your remit goes beyond traditional IT management: you will be an ambassador for innovation and change. Working closely with senior leadership, you’ll develop and execute long-term strategies that align our technological capabilities with the University’s ambitious goals (e.g. M365 Copilot rollout!). You’ll also be responsible for driving user adoption and engagement, ensuring that our platforms not only function smoothly but also empower our staff and students to work smarter and more collaboratively. This involves actively exploring emerging technologies to unlock new opportunities for efficiency and creativity.
On the operational side, you’ll manage budgets, monitor vendor performance, and ensure that service levels are maintained, all while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and creative problem-solving within your team. Your leadership will ensure that our collaboration services are resilient, user-focused, and poised to meet the evolving needs of our community.
About You:
We’re looking for someone who brings not just technical expertise, but also a passion for innovation and inclusivity. You have a strategic mind and an ability to see the big picture, yet you’re equally comfortable getting hands-on to address the details. Your experience managing collaboration platforms in complex environments has given you a keen sense of how technology can transform the way people work together.
You’re adept at engaging with stakeholders at all levels, translating complex technical concepts into meaningful outcomes that resonate with diverse audiences.
Above all, you are forward-thinking and resilient. You see the potential in emerging technologies and are eager to harness them to improve productivity and user experience. Whether your background is traditional or non-traditional, if you are driven by curiosity, committed to continuous learning, and ready to make a significant impact, you are exactly the kind of innovative, inclusive leader we need.
What We Would Love to See From you:
We know that every candidate’s journey is unique, and we’re looking for individuals who bring a passion for innovation and a collaborative mindset rather than a perfect checklist. Here are a few qualities and experiences that will help you thrive in this role:
* Experience with Collaboration Platforms: Whether you’ve managed or supported tools like Microsoft 365, Zoom, Dropbox, or Jira/Confluence in any capacity, a practical familiarity with cloud-based collaboration is key.
* Technical Curiosity: A foundational understanding of how these platforms work, with a willingness to learn and explore emerging technologieslike AI-powered tools such as Microsoft Copilotis highly valued.
* Strategic & Operational Insight: An ability to balance strategic planning with day-to-day operations, including basic experience with budgeting, vendor relationships, or IT service management.
* Collaborative Leadership: A track record (or potential) for fostering an inclusive team environment, where you can empower colleagues, encourage creativity, and drive user adoption.
* Commitment to Continuous Improvement: A passion for exploring new solutions and a mindset geared towards iterative progress in both technology and teamwork.
If these qualities resonate with youeven if your background doesn’t match every point exactlywe encourage you to apply. We’re excited to learn how your unique experiences and perspectives can enrich our community and help shape the future of digital collaboration at the University of Manchester.
We recognise that brilliance comes in many forms, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse team. If you’re excited about driving progress and making a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from youregardless of where your experience comes from. Let’s build something exceptional together.
Hays Technology have been retained by The University of Manchester to manage the recruitment of this role.
How to apply:
Should you wish to discuss the role in strict confidence, please contact Mark Hamilton at Hays Technology
Phone: +44 (0)7738 200 923
Email: Mark.Hamilton@hays.com
Applications should consist of:
* A full CV;
* A covering letter (maximum of three pages) outlining how you meet the points under the person specification;
* Please include details of two referees, though please note that we will not approach referees without your prior consent and only should you be shortlisted.
Completed applications should be made via