Are you a visionary leader with a strong strategic and people-focused approach, able to set direction and transform strategy into meaningful outcomes? Do you champion collective leadership and inclusive practices, bringing creativity and optimism to inspire and energize teams?
This is an exciting opportunity to join Library and Cultural Services as we embark on a bold reinvention of our role and offerings, including the design and construction of a landmark new building supporting the University’s Road to 2030 strategy.
To deliver this transformation, we are looking for an inspiring leader who can drive change and innovation across a wide range of responsibilities. If you can craft a dynamic vision, lead with authenticity and purpose, and foster motivation and engagement within your team, this is your opportunity to take on the role of Associate Director Education and Research. You will play a pivotal part in embedding a culture of innovation aligned with the University’s priorities.
About Us
Manchester Metropolitan University has been driving progress for over 200 years. As one of the UK’s largest and most well-regarded universities, we are committed to delivering globally impactful research and outstanding education. We are more than just a university — we are a vibrant, diverse community where ambitious people unite to make meaningful connections. With world-class facilities and exceptional talent, we improve lives through innovation. We welcome committed, skilled, and passionate individuals who share our vision and values.
Our community of over 5,100 colleagues collaborates daily to drive positive change regionally, nationally, and globally. Joining Manchester Met means building a meaningful career in a supportive environment designed to unlock potential and achieve results we can all be proud of. Together, let’s make a difference.
About the Role
As a key member of the Executive Team, you will provide strategic leadership and management of Library and Cultural Services alongside the Director. You will oversee two major areas of impact, confidently addressing opportunities and challenges with strategic insight:
- Transformative Education and Student Success
You will shape the Library’s strategic contributions to teaching, learning, and co-curricular support throughout the student journey. This includes embedding Library expertise into curriculum design and delivery, pioneering information literacy and digital fluency education, and driving innovative, technology-enhanced services aligned with modern pedagogical techniques.
- Open Research
You will lead the strategic development of open research services, including open access publishing, repository services, digital preservation, research data management, and public engagement with research. As a visible advocate for open research, you will ensure systems and processes meet funder, regulatory, and assessment requirements.
Additionally, you will play a central role in redefining the student and Library experience through the Library Transformation Programme. Building trusted partnerships across the University and beyond, you will engage stakeholders to influence strategy, enhance visibility, and strengthen the reputation of Library and Cultural Services.
About You
We’re seeking a dynamic and inclusive leader who can help us achieve our ambitious vision. You will be a highly motivated and innovative individual with a genuine passion for student success and impactful research. Collaborative and user-focused in your design approach, you will empower teams and create a culture of innovation and achievement.
Key attributes and experiences we’re looking for:
- Proven senior leadership experience in a complex and diverse library or information environment.
- Expertise in pedagogy and digitally enhanced learning, paired with strong knowledge of innovative approaches to academic library services.
- Comprehensive understanding of open research initiatives and their opportunities or challenges.
- Demonstrated success in developing strategy and delivering measurable outcomes, with a deep knowledge of the UK higher education landscape and its drivers.
- Exceptional influencing and relationship-building skills, supporting the cultivation of alliances and effective navigation of complex situations.
- Experience leading transformative programmes and projects with clear impact, supported by strong analytical and future-focused planning.
Further Information and Application Details
To learn more about the role or address any questions, contact Rachel Beckett, Director of Library and Cultural Services, at [email protected].
Applications are submitted via our recruitment portal and should include a complete CV and a detailed application letter outlining your interest in the role and your suitability based on the essential criteria.
Application Timeline: Interviews will take place in Manchester on Tuesday, 14 April 2026.
Inclusion and Support
At Manchester Met, we are committed to fostering an equitable and inclusive culture. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including global communities and underrepresented groups such as Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic individuals, disabled people, and LGBTQ professionals.
We offer flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and custom schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.
Manchester Met actively promotes inclusivity through mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities for all staff, particularly underrepresented groups.
As a Disability Confident Leader, we aim to guarantee an interview for disabled candidates who meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description.
Join Us
Build a purposeful career with Manchester Met — a university dedicated to driving meaningful change. Bring your ideas, passion, and expertise, and together, let’s transform lives