Job Reference: PSX-029670
Salary: UoM Grade 8 £59,966 – £71,566 per annum (depending on experience), plus an additional £8,434 market supplement annually
Faculty/Organisational Unit: Professional Services
Location: Oxford Road
Employment Type: Fixed Term
Division/Team: Unit M
Hours: 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE)
Closing Date: 16/11/2025
Contract Duration: 60 months
School/Directorate: Unit M
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We are dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, especially those underrepresented in technology and leadership roles. If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but unsure whether you meet every requirement, please apply. We value potential as much as experience.
Lead the University into the AI Future
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping society—from the way we work and learn to how we uncover new knowledge and make decisions. The University of Manchester is boldly embracing AI as a transformative force across the organisation and beyond.
We’re no strangers to innovation. The University helped usher in the computer age by creating the world’s first stored-program computer, “The Baby,” in 1948. Alan Turing himself made critical contributions to foundational AI concepts right here, on campus. With 25 Nobel laureates and a city that laid the foundations of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester has always been a hub for innovation and impact.
Manchester 2035 is our ambitious strategy to gain global recognition for our research excellence, educational advancement, and civic contributions. AI is integral to this vision—revolutionising teaching and learning, reimagining research approaches, and transforming our operations.
AI is central to our mission of advancing knowledge, changing lives, and making an impact globally. We’re exploring its potential responsibly and strategically.
The Role: AI Innovation Strategist
We’re seeking an AI Innovation Strategist to help define and deliver the University’s AI strategy. In this role, you’ll work closely with the University Director of AI Innovation, translating visionary ambition into actionable initiatives and identifying opportunities where AI can make the greatest impact.
This is your chance to lead, design, and execute innovative AI solutions across education, research, and institutional operations for one of the UK’s leading research universities.
We’re looking for someone who can think strategically while driving practical outcomes—bridging emerging technologies with real-world institutional challenges.
Key Responsibilities
As part of a small, high-impact Skunkworks Innovation Team, reporting directly to the Director of AI Innovation, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the University’s AI future.
Here are some of the responsibilities you’ll have:
- Develop and manage an AI innovation roadmap aligned with institutional priorities.
- Scan emerging AI trends and apply them to challenges within higher education.
- Lead feasibility studies to test potential AI applications across teaching, learning, research, and operational areas.
- Act as a key contact for stakeholders, fostering collaboration across faculties, services, and external organisations.
- Support the Director in converting strategic visions into actionable, measurable plans.
- Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and decisions are made effectively.
- Build compelling business cases for scaling successful pilots, outlining benefits, costs, and change management requirements.
- Bring external perspectives into the University by engaging with tech innovators, sector leaders, and peers across industries.
This is a collaborative, flexible, and impact-driven environment where experimentation is encouraged, failure is a learning process, and progress is achieved collectively.
What You’ll Bring
This role goes beyond technical expertise—it requires strategic thinking, practical execution, and meaningful engagement with diverse audiences.
We’re looking for individuals who are: curious, forward-thinking, and adept at connecting ideas with people.
Essential Criteria:
- Strong expertise in AI technologies, applications, and potential within education.
- In-depth understanding of ethical, legal, and regulatory aspects of AI adoption.
- Proven track record of successfully delivering and scaling impactful AI projects.
- Exceptional communication skills, capable of simplifying complex concepts for a broad range of audiences.
- Advanced problem-solving and analytical capabilities for assessing risks and opportunities.
- Skilled project manager able to juggle multiple initiatives and meet deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability to engage and influence stakeholders across varied disciplines.
Desirable Criteria:
- Advanced degree in AI, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Familiarity with higher education environments and sector-specific challenges.
Why Join the University of Manchester?
Join a globally recognised institution with meaningful local and international impact. From advancing materials science to fostering responsible innovation, we are committed to improving lives through knowledge.
Our AI Innovation team collaborates with senior leaders, technologists, and educators to implement ethical, scalable, and people-first AI solutions across the University. Innovation is in our DNA, and we’re building a digital future while maintaining our focus on human-driven values.
What We Offer:
- Generous Leave: 29 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays and December closure days.
- Pension Scheme: Access to a comprehensive, generous pension package.
- Flexible Working: Including hybrid work arrangements.
- Staff Benefits: Discounts, wellbeing programmes, and professional development opportunities.
- Career Opportunity: Become a driving force in AI innovation at a forward-thinking university.
For more information about working for us: Explore Benefits.
Application and Interview Process
Shortlisting is anticipated on 17th November 2025, with interviews scheduled for 20th November 2025.
Queries or Informal Enquiries
If you have any questions about the role, please contact Michael Platt at [email protected]