About the Directorate
At IT&D, we play a key role in shaping the University of the future by co-developing innovative ways of working, boosting productivity, reducing complexity, fostering innovation, and delivering insights that drive continuous improvement. Supporting the University’s strategic objectives in teaching and research on both national and global levels, we embrace a digital-first approach in a modern, evolving university environment. Collaborating closely with academic and Professional Services colleagues, we strive to deliver digital services that put innovation and progress at the forefront.
About the Department
Our department builds, procures, configures, and enhances enterprise-scale software and services to address unique challenges and support mission-critical functions throughout the university. This enables us to achieve our strategic goals. Our focus is on ensuring all systems and data are highly secure, resilient, and available. We pride ourselves on delivering best-in-class products and services while working collaboratively with other teams within IT&D and the wider University.
About the Team
The Quality team plays a critical role in maintaining high standards across our processes by ensuring that every release is delivered securely and to the highest quality, adhering to strict governance protocols. We oversee the entire release and test management lifecycle—from validation of requirements through to release—enabling consistent, high-quality delivery for our teams.
About the Role
The Senior Release Manager will report directly to the Head of Quality and will be pivotal in implementing best practices while continually seeking opportunities to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the release management function.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the release schedule and roadmap using tools such as Jira
- Implement and promote best practice initiatives
- Collaborate regularly with colleagues and senior managers within IT&D to ensure alignment across departments
- Manage all aspects of the release process, along with the associated methods, tools, and applications
- Mentor and provide support to less experienced team members
- Take a lead role in explaining and communicating complex ideas to various stakeholders
- Attend, participate in, and occasionally lead departmental ceremonies and meetings
- Identify, assess, and manage risks across release processes
Key Skills & Experience
Essential:
- A degree, professional qualification, or relevant prior experience as a Release Manager
- Demonstrable experience in a release management role
- Previous work in an Agile environment
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong organisation and prioritisation capabilities
- Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously and working with diverse stakeholder groups
Desirable:
- Familiarity with Higher Education or public-sector environments
- ITIL 4 certification
- Proficiency with tools like Jira or similar platforms
- Lean Six Sigma or BPMN certification
- Awareness of data protection regulations such as GDPR
To explore this exciting opportunity further and learn more about the benefits we offer, please refer to the additional details provided in the Job Description and Candidate Pack.
Assessment Process
To apply, please submit your CV and a tailored covering letter via the application portal, detailing your suitability for the role.
Interviews are anticipated to take place during the week commencing 4th March.
For informal inquiries about this position, please contact Hannah Dix at [email protected].
If you share our vision and would like to be part of an ambitious and forward-thinking team, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
Inclusivity at Manchester Met
At Manchester Metropolitan University, we embrace diversity and cultivate an inclusive culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We value the unique perspectives and ideas brought by people from all backgrounds and actively encourage applications from candidates of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic origins, as well as disabled and LGBTQ individuals.
We offer various flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working and bespoke schedules, which you can discuss with your line manager. Should you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, we are committed to offering appropriate support to ensure your success.
Our inclusivity efforts extend to initiatives such as mentoring programs, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities tailored to support underrepresented groups.
Disability Confident Scheme
As a Disability Confident Leader, Manchester Met is committed to offering interviews to disabled individuals who meet the essential criteria listed in the job description for this role.
We look forward to welcoming you to our team!