Job Reference: PSX-029672
Salary: UoM Grade 7 £47,389 – £58,225 per annum (depending on experience)
Faculty/Organisational Unit: Professional Services
Location: Oxford Road
Employment Type: Fixed Term
Division/Team: Unit M
Hours Per Week: 35 hours / 1.0 FTE
Closing Date: 28/09/2025
Contract Duration: 60 months
School/Directorate: Unit M
Our Commitment to Inclusion
At the University of Manchester, we are committed to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. We celebrate diversity and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, particularly those underrepresented in technology and leadership roles. If you’re passionate about this opportunity but aren’t certain you meet every single requirement, we still urge you to apply—we value potential and growth just as much as experience.
Lead the University into the AI Future
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping society—how we work, learn, research, and make decisions. At the University of Manchester, we see this as a unique opportunity to embrace AI, responsibly and ambitiously transforming the organisation.
We’ve been trailblazers before, and now we’re doing it again.
From developing the world’s first stored-program computer, “The Baby,” in 1948 to Alan Turing’s foundational work in AI, the University of Manchester has continuously been at the cutting edge of innovation. With 25 Nobel laureates and a city steeped in revolutionary history, we’re a place where innovation isn’t just celebrated—it’s transformative.
Our Manchester 2035 strategy envisions global recognition for the University’s research, education, and civic contribution. AI is central to this vision, offering the potential to revolutionise education, reimagine research, and enhance operational effectiveness.
Though the AI journey at Manchester has only just begun, its potential to reshape university life across teaching, research, and professional services is immeasurable. Crucial to this transformation is ensuring every individual in our community is equipped with the skills, confidence, and curiosity to ethically and effectively harness AI’s power.
That’s where you come in. We’re searching for an AI Skills Lead to empower people across the University with the knowledge and tools to use AI in meaningful, inclusive, and impactful ways.
About the Role: AI Skills Lead
As the AI Skills Lead, you’ll spearhead the University’s learning strategy for AI and data literacy. Collaborating widely across faculties and functions, your goal is to ensure every student and colleague gains the capability to understand, engage with, and use AI effectively.
This is your chance to play a pivotal role in shaping how one of the UK’s leading universities leverages AI to drive innovation, enhance learning, and transform operations.
Working at the intersection of strategy, technology, and people, you’ll help the University unlock AI’s full potential.
What You’ll Do
You’ll form part of a small, high-impact Skunkworks innovation team, reporting directly to the Director of AI Innovation and driving the University’s AI-focused skills agenda. While this is a new and evolving role, key responsibilities include:
- Designing and implementing a comprehensive, University-wide strategy for AI and data literacy, balancing immediate needs with long-term goals.
- Collaborating with academic, operational, and research teams to understand their learning objectives and embed AI capabilities into their work.
- Supporting colleagues in integrating AI into teaching, research, and professional tasks.
- Developing or sourcing inclusive, engaging, and accessible learning resources tailored to diverse audiences.
- Fostering a culture of curiosity and experimentation, encouraging teams to test, explore, and share successful approaches.
- Keeping up to date with AI advancements and identifying opportunities for their application within the higher education sector.
- Building partnerships with stakeholders, innovators, and peers across higher education and beyond.
Our team operates with flexibility, collaboration, and a strong emphasis on real-world impact—a space where creativity is welcomed, failure is treated as a valuable step forward, and progress is made together.
What We’re Looking For
We’re not searching for a traditional ‘training manager.’ This role calls for someone who thinks strategically, inspires action, and builds strong relationships across diverse groups. Your mindset is just as important as your skillset—we want someone who is curious, collaborative, and visionary.
Key Attributes:
- Deep understanding of AI technologies and their applications in real-world contexts.
- Proven experience designing and delivering large-scale learning strategies, particularly in digital or AI-related domains.
- Ability to build stakeholder alignment and drive cross-institutional initiatives.
- Strong communication skills, capable of translating complex concepts into engaging, accessible content.
- Experience leading learning and development initiatives in varied and diverse environments.
- A consultative approach, with the ability to identify learning needs and co-create impactful solutions.
- Knowledge of the ethical, legal, and social implications of AI adoption.
- Strong project leadership capabilities equipped with stakeholder management expertise.
Desirable Qualities:
- Experience working in a higher education setting.
- Understanding of AI regulation, data governance, and sustainable technology practices.
- Relevant qualifications (e.g., MSc in a related discipline, CIPD, TAP certification, or equivalent experience).
Why Manchester?
The University of Manchester combines global influence with local impact, pioneering research and innovation in fields such as materials science, medicine, and responsible technology.
Our AI Innovation Team partners with senior leaders, technologists, and educators to embed smart, scalable, and ethical AI across all aspects of university life. We value learning through action and prioritise a people-first approach to digital innovation.
In addition to shaping the future of AI at one of the UK’s most forward-looking universities, you’ll benefit from:
- Generous Leave: 29 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and a University closure period in December.
- Competitive Benefits Package: Including a pension scheme, wellbeing support, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Flexible Working: Hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
- Collaborative Culture: A workplace that celebrates diversity, supports ambition, and encourages creative experimentation.
Learn more about our full range of benefits here: Benefits of Working at Manchester.
Key Dates
- Shortlisting: To take place during the week of 29th September.
- Interviews: Scheduled for 13th October 2025.
If you have any questions or would like to make an informal enquiry, please contact Michael Platt at [email protected].
Let’s shape the future of AI—together