Manager, Academic & Administrative Services

Simon Fraser University; England; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university in the United Kingdom is seeking a Manager, Academic and Administrative Services. This role requires providing leadership in planning and executing academic and administrative activities, managing financial operations, and driving process improvements. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with five years of relevant experience in management roles. Benefits include a hybrid work program, generous vacation, and a pension plan.

Benefits

4 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)

Hybrid-work program for eligible positions

Employer-paid defined benefit pension plan

On-campus tuition waiver for employees and family members

Off-campus tuition reimbursements

Qualifications

• Five years of related experience in financial administration and operational management.
• Expertise in strategic planning and project management.
• Ability to lead change and foster collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in planning and executing academic and administrative activities.
• Manage the School's financial operations, including budgets and forecasts.
• Conduct complex analyses to support strategic decision-making.

Skills

Advanced financial management

Personnel management

Time management

Supervisory skills

Initiative and priority setting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or relevant discipline

Job description

Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

The School of Interactive Arts & Technology (SIAT) is an interdisciplinary, research-focused school bringing together technologists, artists, designers, and theorists in innovative collaboration. SIAT’s administrative team provides essential support for the School’s academic, research and community initiatives. We play a critical role in enabling faculty and leadership to focus on strategic planning and decision-making by managing day-to-day administrative and technical tasks. Our culture is built on collaboration, inclusivity, and autonomy, fostering a supportive environment where team members are valued, encouraged to share ideas, and empowered to grow both personally and professionally.

About the Role

The Manager, Academic and Administrative Services provides leadership in planning and executing the department’s academic and administrative activities. The role ensures the unit operates efficiently and effectively by developing strategies, implementing plans to achieve objectives, and driving ongoing process improvements. The Manager oversees the School’s financial operations, including operating budgets and forecasts, and collaborates closely with senior administration on departmental initiatives. The role also conducts complex analyses to inform and support strategic decision‑making.

Our ideal candidate is a highly organized, skilled professional with strong interpersonal and communication abilities. They will have experience managing a team and be committed to fostering collaboration, cultivating a positive team environment, and supporting staff well‑being. The candidate must be able to manage multiple and shifting priorities while exercising sound judgement.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, or a relevant discipline and five years of related experience in financial administration, operational management, strategic planning, project management, personnel management, faculty affairs and curriculum development, planning and coordination.

• Advanced financial, personnel, and time management skills.
• In‑depth knowledge of employment practices, with the ability to interpret and apply collective agreements.
• Demonstrated leadership, supervisory, and mentoring skills.
• Proven ability to set priorities, take initiative, and meet deadlines.
• Capacity to lead change and foster a positive, collaborative work environment.

What We Offer

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work‑life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

• 4 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)*
• Hybrid‑work program for eligible positions
• Employer‑paid defined benefit pension plan
• On‑campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
• Off‑campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
• And more!

*Prorated for part‑time employees

Additional Information

Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.

SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact [e-mail].