Head of Transformation and Change

Job Type

Full Time Permanent

Salary

£56,921 - £65,814 per annum

Location

Waterside Campus

About the job

Interview date: Friday 07 March 2025

Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for driving innovation and transformation? The University of Northampton is seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Transformation and Change to lead our ambitious transformation portfolio.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Vice Chancellor, this pivotal post will oversee the Transformation and Change Office, driving a diverse range of programmes and projects aimed at modernising and enhancing the University's operational efficiency, academic offering, and strategic capabilities.

As the Head of Transformation and Change, you will:

• Lead the planning, execution and delivery of key transformation programmes
• Work collaboratively with the University Leadership Team, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to align initiatives with strategic objectives
• Establish and manage governance frameworks to ensure effective risk management and accountability
• Foster a culture of innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement across the University
• Manage and develop a multidisciplinary team, championing professional growth and wellbeing

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports both UON and our students, as well as your personal needs. We recognise that this approach may differ across various areas of the university and from one individual to another. Smarter Working offers increased flexibility, allowing you to work in a way that provides greater freedom and autonomy, if that suits you. However, it’s important to note that smarter working needs to align with both the needs of the organisation and your manager, as well as the individual. For this post, while smarter working is available, the expectation is that you will be on-site for at least 2-3 days a week.

About you

You’ll bring strategic leadership experience in managing complex transformation portfolios and a proven track record of delivering impactful change. You’ll have exceptional communication skills, enabling you to engage and inspire diverse stakeholders while navigating resistance to change. Your excellent financial and risk management expertise will ensure successful outcomes across all transformation initiatives.

Extensive experience leading large-scale transformation programmes, ideally in higher education is essential.  Knowledge of digital transformation and technology integration in education is desirable. 

If you are ready to shape the future of the University of Northampton, we’d love to hear from you.

Join Us:
This is a fantastic opportunity to lead meaningful change within a forward-thinking institution. Be part of our journey as we create a more innovative and efficient future for our University community.

Qualifications

Essential;

• A relevant postgraduate degree (e.g., MBA, MSc in Project Management) or equivalent experience
• Professional qualification in programme or project management (e.g., APM, PRINCE2, PMP)

Department

The Transformation Office is a newly created department at the University of Northampton, established to drive a comprehensive portfolio of programmes and projects that will modernise and enhance the University's operational efficiency, academic offerings, and strategic capabilities.

As a key part of the University's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, the Transformation Office will play a vital role in delivering initiatives aligned with the University's long-term strategic goals.

This is an exciting time to join the University as the Head of Transformation & Change, a pivotal post that will shape and build the foundations of this new department. You will be instrumental in establishing the Transformation Office, creating its framework, culture, and processes to ensure it becomes a centre of excellence for programme and change delivery.

This is a unique opportunity to lead transformative change at a critical moment in the University's journey, ensuring the success of this newly established department and the wider impact of its work.

About us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right to work

All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process.

The University is open to considering Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, provided that the eligibility criteria of the points-based immigration system are met.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON
Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

UON’s Major Commitments:

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON