Academic Liaison Manager Opportunity
Are you a collaborative leader passionate about inclusive practices and empowering teams?
Do you excel in a dynamic, partnership-driven environment that prioritizes student success?
Are you ready to foster academic engagement, drive innovative library services, and forge impactful relationships?
If this resonates with you, now is an exciting time to join Library & Cultural Services at Manchester Metropolitan University. We are embarking on a transformative journey aligned with the ambitious “Road to 2030” strategy, which includes designing and building a landmark new facility. This is your opportunity to lead with authenticity, cultivate a culture of innovation, and harness the power of student voice and data-driven outcomes as Academic Liaison Manager.
About Us
With a history of over 200 years, Manchester Met is one of the UK’s largest and most popular universities. We are a progressive institution committed to outstanding research and exceptional education. More than just a university, we are a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive community of ambitious individuals who come together to foster connections and create meaningful change.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional minds work in harmony to inspire innovation and improve lives. Our 5,100 dedicated colleagues collaborate closely to drive positive impact on a regional, national, and global scale.
At the heart of Manchester Met, you will find a supportive environment designed to help you grow and thrive. Join us, and proudly be part of something bigger as we transform lives together.
About the Role
As Academic Liaison Manager, reporting to the Head of Academic Engagement and Teaching Services, you will lead a team of Academic Liaison Librarians and oversee the Student Partner programme. Your role will involve the creation of meaningful co-creation opportunities enabling students to shape our services.
Key responsibilities include:
- Building Strong Relationships: Proactively engaging with faculties, departments, and stakeholders to understand their teaching, learning, and research priorities.
- Driving Service Innovation: Ensuring collections, learning support, and academic liaison activities remain current, value-driven, and impactful.
- Data-Informed Leadership: Using student insights, analytics, and key performance metrics to drive service and collection development. A critical focus includes aligning services with university goals, such as improving NSS and TEF scores.
This role will provide you the opportunity to make a measurable difference in the university’s success, support student achievement, and contribute to wider institutional priorities.
About You
We are looking for an experienced, motivated leader who embodies our values and can demonstrate the following:
- Inclusive Leadership: A strong track record of inspiring and managing high-performing teams through supportive, inclusive practices.
- Relationship Building: Proven ability to navigate complex environments, foster collaboration, and build trusted partnerships.
- Innovation and Flexibility: Experience delivering service innovations and leveraging digital tools and emerging technologies (such as AI).
- Evidence-Based Decision-Making: Ability to analyze data, use insights to drive strategic decisions, and measure service impact.
- Commitment to Inclusion: Passionate about user-centered design, co-creation, and equitable practices that make a tangible difference.
- Strong Communication Skills: Confidence in influencing and adapting to change, while maintaining a clear, student-centered focus.
Further Information on the Role
For more details and the required selection criteria, please refer to the Job Description on our website by clicking the “Apply” button.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted via our recruitment portal. To apply:
- Click “Apply” and upload your CV.
- Complete the “Supporting Information” section by answering five key questions. Each response should provide a specific example from your experience (maximum of 500 words per response) using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Where possible, relate your examples to work in library or higher education contexts.
For an informal discussion or further information about this position, please contact Lesley English, Head of Academic Engagement and Teaching Services, at [email protected].
Closing Date for Applications: [Insert Closing Date]
Interview Date: Provisionally scheduled for 12 May 2026 (12/05/26).
A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity
Manchester Met is committed to fostering a culture of belonging that celebrates diversity and promotes equity. We value a workforce that reflects our diverse communities and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidates, LGBTQ individuals, and those with disabilities.
We proudly support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, to promote work-life balance. Should you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or throughout your employment, please let us know so that we can provide appropriate support.
As a Disability Confident Leader, we aim to promote the employment and development of people with disabilities. Under this scheme, where there is a high volume of applicants, disabled candidates meeting the essential criteria outlined in the Job Description will be prioritized for an interview.
Join Manchester Met, where you can unlock your potential, make a difference, and be part of a community that transforms lives.
Be Manchester Met Proud.