Business Manager FURTHER PARTICULARS
Business Manager
2
Contents 1. Welcome from the Director of Estates
2. The University of Birmingham – a bold and influential university • Excellence in education • Campus developments • Global outlook • Exceptional research • Cultural assets • The city of Birmingham
3. Estates Office 4. Job description • Summary of role • Main Duties / Responsibilities 5. What is it like to work in the Estates Office
6. Appointment process and how to apply
Business Manager
3
1.Welcome from the Director of Estates
People are at the heart of what we are and do at the University of Birmingham. Within the Estates Office, we are looking to further strengthen our team across a range of roles and teams. We are looking to recruit people whose achieve- ments and skills will contribute to our success and who share our values of col- laboration, respect, inclusion, sustainability and professionalism. We welcome diversity and are committed to ensuring everyone is part of an enjoyable and rewarding culture in which they can do their best work. As a team, we aim to deliver a world class university experience for the benefit of all students, staff, academics and visitors. We are proud of the role we play in the success of the University, the enjoyment that students, staff and academics get during their time here and ensuring that visitors leave us with the best possi- ble impression of the University. We operate up to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all through the year in order to keep the University running efficiently and effectively, and in recent months have managed to sustain a safe and compliant campus during lockdown and an intensive period of campus re-opening I believe that the enclosed information will offer you a glimpse into the transfor- mation we have undertaken at the University of Birmingham, as well as our future plans, and upon reading this information I hope you feel excited and inspired. Thank you for your interest in joining the Estates Office. If you support our values and feel you can bring something to the team, then I encourage you to apply. If you are successful, I very much look forward to meeting with you soon.
With warm regards, Trevor Payne Director of Estates
Business Manager
4
2. The University of Birmingham - a bold and influential university
With more than 8,000 staff and 34,000 students, the University of Birmingham was the first civic university in the UK. Our heritage as the original ‘redbrick’ is combined with one of the most compelling and ambitious agendas in higher education. We have a clear vision for the future, ambitious leadership, world-class academic strengths, and a secure financial base. Being named The Times and Sunday Times University of the Year 2013–2014 recognised a transformative time in our history, characterised by innovative initiatives such as our much-emulated unconditional offers strategy for exceptional students and our highly successful ‘Birmingham Fellows’ programme for early-career academics. Birmingham is a leading member of the Russell Group and a founder member of the Universitas 21 global network of research universities of which our Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir David Eastwood, is the current Chair. We launched our 2021 Strategic Framework, Making Important Things Happen. This provides the framework for another period of development and transforma- tion as we seek to capitalise on our academic range and financial strength as well as the opportunities that emerge in the fast-changing global HE environ- ment. Excellence in education The league table rises we have secured in recent years have led to us becoming an increasingly popular destination for the best and brightest students. Our student population has increased by over 4,000 since 2009/10, and we now have over 20,000 undergraduate and 14,000 postgraduate students. Nearly 5,000 of these are from overseas, making ours the second largest international postgraduate population in the UK. Our student satisfaction levels have risen significantly to 88% for overall satisfaction, placing us as one of the best universities of our type. Our highly successful work to support our students in securing graduate-level employment after their studies with us was recognised in 2015 when we were awarded The Times and The Sunday Times University of the Year for Graduate Employment. At 86.7%, our rate of graduate employability is the fourth highest in the UK, and a result of the much-copied Birmingham model for employability. Campus developments Our annual turnover has grown to more than £748 million, and we make use of our financial strength to invest in the intellectual and physical future of the University. Over the past three years, some £680 million has been invested in the Birmingham campus, including a major sports centre and outstanding new student accommodation. Our state-of-the-art Student Services Hub opened in October 2015 and includes facilities for our Careers Network, Student Services and Registry, as well as a suite of one-to-one consultation rooms and a 250-seat lecture theatre. The Hub is based at the heart of campus in the Aston Webb Building and sits between the stunning Elgar Concert Hall and the magnificent Great Hall, venue for our graduations. Our new £59 million technology-rich main library opened in 2016 and provides outstanding facilities for a new generation of students and researchers. The new library houses an increased number of study spaces, flexible training rooms, and A/V listening and video editing booths. Our new £55 million sports centre, opened in 2017, will include the city’s first 50-metre swimming pool – an asset not only for our students and staff but for the wider community.
Business Manager
5
We are currently finalising the next phase of our estates strategy, which will see a further £300 million invested into projects such as the new Collaborative Teaching Laboratory, which brings together practical teaching activities across a broad range of science and engineering disciplines, with a new state-of-the-art facility which opened in 2018. This means we will not only have best-in-class teaching lab facilities for our students, but a transformed curriculum. This, and many other developments, will enrich the student experience, and continue to strengthen our intellectual environment. Global outlook Rated 76th in the most recent QS World University Rankings, the University has a significant international presence. As well as a large international student community undertaking courses at Birmingham, our vibrant Study Abroad programmes attract students from around the world to spend time in Birmingham. We have made a significant investment to support partnership development with leading universities and key public and private organisations in Brazil. This has created joint research fellowships, visiting scholars, and a large, vibrant community of Brazilian PhD students on campus. Exceptional research The University is one of the UK’s most successful institutions in terms of attracting research funding. We have a portfolio of 2,613 live projects with an award value to the University of £574 million. Our research record speaks for itself. REF2014 showed that more than 80% of all research carried out at Birmingham is rated as internationally excellent or world-leading, as well as showing that 87% of our research activity has a global impact, demonstrating our continued academic success across a broad range of areas. Supported by a major gift from a philanthropist, the University has developed a unique institute for forest research (BIFOR) which will investigate the effect of rapid climate change on tree canopy development and pathogens. Our substantive links with industry include receiving a £60 million investment from Rolls-Royce and HEFCE for the world-leading High Temperature Research Centre. In 2014, the University secured one of the four national quantum technology hubs, an £80 million initiative which focuses on technology transfer from fundamental science to application. In 2015, the government announced a £60 million investment into the Midlands Energy Research Accelerator, which is led by the University in partnership with other Midlands universities to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the global economy by transforming research and development in three critical areas of energy: Thermal, Integrated Systems and Geo-Energy. Cultural assets The University’s many cultural assets take in the Shakespeare Institute at Stratford-upon-Avon, which has direct working links with the Royal Shakespeare Company and enhances the educational opportunities available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students; the Ironbridge Institute in Shropshire, and the Barber Institute of Fine Arts – our own art gallery that houses works by many of the greatest artists in the western tradition. The Edgbaston campus also includes Winterbourne House and Garden, a unique Edwardian heritage attraction that is home to more than 6,000 plant species from around the world. Our cultural profile was significantly enhanced with the opening of The Bramall music building in 2013, funded through generous benefactions. This houses the Elgar Concert Hall, named after our first Professor of Music, Sir Edward Elgar, and is a striking venue that complements our global reputation in music, attracting some of the most talented musicians from across the world to study here.
Business Manager
6
The city of Birmingham Birmingham is the UK’s second biggest city and a major European centre. It is a city of historical interest and contemporary vision and has a rich and diverse community that creates a vibrant, multicultural and exciting place to live and work. It is home to the internationally renowned Birmingham Royal Ballet and one of the world’s greatest concert venues, the Symphony Hall. The City Museum and Art Gallery houses the world’s finest collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings, alongside a major collection of old masters, modern and contemporary pictures. The stunning New Street station redevelopment opened in 2015; this provides links to the University’s own dedicated railway station, and will be at the centre of the proposed high-speed rail network. London is 80 minutes away by shuttle service, with trains every 20 minutes. The remarkable Grand Central shopping and restaurant complex sits above the station, and is just a short walk from the iconic Bullring, one of the largest dedicated shopping facilities in Europe. Sports and recreation are also well served; the city offers international test cricket, high-level football, international championship golf and top-class rugby. As a multicultural city, Birmingham is also renowned for the breadth of its cuisine and has more Michelin starred restaurants than any other English city outside London. Birmingham is within an hour’s drive of Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds. From Birmingham Airport, more than 50 different airlines operate scheduled services to 100 destinations worldwide. 3. Estates Office The University estate consists of two main sites (Edgbaston & Selly Oak), along with properties at Stratford on Avon, Ansty, Coniston, Ironbridge, Dubai and our High Temperature Research Centre. Those sites accommodate the majority of the core academic and residential facilities that support the work of the University. The facilities extend to approximately half-a-million square meters of floors space in over 200 buildings, and over 300 acres of grounds and sports fields. The Estates Office is responsible for developing, maintaining and operating those facilities to support the changing needs of our staff, students and partners - and for enhancing the quality of the environment for work and study.
Business Manager
7
4. Job description
Overview Under the guidance of the Director of Estates, the Estates Business Services Manager will provide senior secretariat support to coordinate activities to ensure the appropriate governance and co-ordination of Business Services within the Estates Directorate. Role Responsibilities • The post holder will have responsibility for drafting papers as directed by, and on behalf of, the Director and Deputy Director of Estates. • This will include the provision of appropriate briefing notes for meetings and public engagements. • The post holder will provide professional guidance and assistance to all Estates staff responsible for writing business cases, in order to ensure a consistent and agreed format is maintained for submissions representing the Estates Directorate. • In addition, the individual will have line management responsibility for the Estates Administration team. • The post holder will engage with other teams in Estates and IT Services, as well as with other University Departments including Professional Services, Finance, Procurement, Colleges & Schools to co-ordinate and plan the deliverables for the programmes of work. • They will ensure that project scopes are agreed and all documentation facilitates effective end to end planning. • Coordinate and develop key business cases to secure University Executive Board approval of capital programmes and projects, by providing succinct papers within template formats that present qualitative and quantitative data that enable timely decision making. • Plan and coordinate the production of all papers for review by Project Boards and Committees in line with the University Committee structure and cycle, ensuring stakeholder consultation and sponsor approval of all docu- mentation. • The Estates Business Services Manager will support, guide, train and develop the Project Officers to ensure robust governance and that meeting agenda’s, minutes and action notes are accurately provided. • Work collaboratively to develop effective lines of communication and strong working relationships, to build trust and confidence with the University Stakeholders. • Build productive working relationships with the senior management of the University, and demonstrate professional leadership in the development and implementation of best practice process concerning Estates business services and project management and the provision of information to support executive and non-executive decision making. • Coordinate all Governance work with Capital and project programmes including understanding both project and portfolio pipelines of work. • Produce overall forecasts for resources and managing demand for work and support. Ensure delivery is planned in the most effective manner to make the most efficient use of admin support & resource. • Develop and work within the standards, strategies and procedures across the Estates project delivery life cycle such as stakeholder management, project communications, resource planning, budget management and project planning and ensure that the practices are adopted within the team – as set out in the Capital Procedures manual. • Provide effective and appropriate training to project stakeholders, to ensure the implementation and maintenance of all approved project governance and standards.
Business Manager
8
Role Responsibilities • Maintain an overall coordinated programme for ongoing Estates projects and business improvements. • Ensure project team members meet their objectives and manage performance where necessary. • Conduct annual appraisals with line management responsibilities; identify development needs on an individual and team basis and facilitate the necessary development activities to meet those needs. • Work collaboratively with colleagues within Estates services, professional services, academic Colleges & schools to deliver continuous improvement to existing services and to deliver new quality systems. • Be responsible for the co-ordination (not production, unless specifically requested) of clear project documentation (e.g. project definitions, RAID logs, project plans, and project budgets). • Keep up to date with relevant developments external and internal to the University and assess their implications for Estates As a senior leader within Estates and a member of the Core Team, the postholder will be responsible for service improvement development and performance, portfolio and programme management, stakeholder engagement and communication, staff development and social value. The role requires strong programme management and governance experience, with the ability to build relationships. influence change and work across boundaries with a broad range • Working closely with Director of Estates, Core Team and Heads of Depart- ment to develop and realise the Estates strategy across all aspects of the department’s activities; • Robust portfolio and financial management to underpin the effective delivery and governance of the University’s capital programme; • Ongoing change management leadership across the department to improve performance, including the simplification of processes and procedures, as well as staff development; • Informing and influencing relationships with stakeholders, staff and the com- munity through communications, engagement and social value strategies; • Demonstrating intellectual confidence, as well as personal and professional resilience in support of the University of Birmingham. of internal and external stakeholders. Particular responsibilities include:
Business Manager
8
Strategy and Performance • To support the Director and Deputy Director of Estates in the development and realisation of future strategy, campus master planning and strategic projects by: • Understanding and promoting the University’s Strategic Framework and other University strategies and policies, developing solutions to address the impact upon Estates; • Understanding the external environment for construction and Estates services and its impact upon the University’s Estates strategy; • Leading on the planning, development and oversight of the Estates Strategy, working in partnership with Core Team and Heads of Department to ensure effective implementation; • Ensuring the alignment of Estates reporting, communication, service standards and staff performance to the delivery of the overarching strategy; • Monitoring key Estates data and trends, giving early insight into challenges and opportunities related to the successful delivery of the strategy and overarching Estates performance; • Providing leadership and direction to key departmental projects and partnerships, managing external relationships and contributing to successful delivery; • Implementing effective, timely processes to secure internal approval and funding for projects, working across Colleges, Professional Services and Estates; • Collaborating with Research Support, Business Engagement and DARO to identify and respond to external funding opportunities, supporting Project Managers as required. • Work in partnership with Finance to ensure robust financial controls are in place to manage project finance and the overall cashflow and performance of the Estates Revenue and Capital programme; • Ensuring effective governance is in place across Project Boards, CPMG, University Executive Board and Council, in conjunction with the Executive Office, and implementing the new Gateway approval process to improve capital project decision making and accountability; • Reviewing and/or preparing clear, concise papers and business cases on behalf of the Director for a wide range of purposes and stakeholders, including CPMG, UEB and Council; • Supporting the implementation and communication of post occupancy/post project reviews and ‘lessons learned’ exercises, ensuring relevant changes are made; • Implementing formal and informal risk management procedures that provide a clear strategic understanding of risk but also allow for rapid resolution of issues as required;
Business Manager
8
Support to the Director of Estates • To provide strategic and governance advice, support and guidance to the Director and Deputy Director of Estates on a wide range of issues, including: • Deputising for specific issues and undertaking other duties in the department, as and where appropriate; • Leading by example in setting the highest possible standards, demonstrating the qualities of the Estates values, and clearing articulating departmental strategy; • Being an engaged member of the Estates Core Team, promoting the collective rather than the individual perspective, demonstrating accountability for key decisions, and promoting the shared vision for the success of the department; • Providing leadership and being a trusted source of knowledge across the University for project governance and strategy; • Making effective judgements in the best interests of the University and Estates department; • Supporting the ongoing development of the department through formal and informal coaching and mentoring of key staff; • Building co-operation between the different parts of the department, Professional Services and the Colleges, spotting opportunities consistent with the Estates strategy; • Acting as an external ambassador for the University, representing the institution to key and influential external audiences and stakeholders; • Representing Estates on projects and committees as required which may be indirectly related to the strategy and governance; • Promoting an excellent staff, student and visitor experience, and championing exceptional research
Business Manager
9
Person Specification • Proven ability of working with initiative, taking decisions and thinking creatively and laterally, exercising independent judgement and professional discretion. • Knowledge and experience of managing complex matters, navigating uncertainty, prioritising workloads, and delivering on time and on budget; • Experience of building effective, trusting partnerships, working across organisational boundaries to lead and motivate formal and informal teams; • Excellent communication skills (written and oral) and the ability to represent the University internally and externally with confidence, diplomacy and authority; • Knowledge and experience of governance and strategic planning, with the ability to synthesise data and outline concepts into clear plans and recommendations; • Outstanding planning and project management skills, including experience of financial and risk management; • Proven record of formulating innovative solutions and practical implementations to deliver strategic objectives; • Experience in the planning and delivery of major capital projects; • Experience at a senior and strategic level within a University or similarly complex organisation; • Proven track record in leading change and creating a culture of continuous improvement; • Intellectually confident, credible, and experienced in leading and managing significant resources; • An open manner with a clear and straightforward management style which will build trust and respect among colleagues at all levels throughout the University; • The appropriate style, stature and interpersonal and communication skills to work collegially and establish credibility across the Estates Office, Professional Services, members of University Executive Board and the Registrar’s Leadership Group; • The ability personally to write clear and persuasive Board papers and business plans and to use fact-based evidence as part of influencing skills; • An intelligent, flexible and proportionate approach to implementing regulation and a preparedness to take ownership in this area.
Business Manager
9
Qualifications Knowledge and Experience Essential • Educated to degree level or equivalent technical professional qualifications or equivalent experience. • Strong knowledge of Governance and Project Implementation. • Experience of working with senior managers at the highest institutional level. • Experience of supporting Senior Management or Board level committees.
Desirable • PRINCE2 Foundation Certificate or MSP practitioner or equivalent Project management qualification.
Skills and Abilities Essential • Experience in preparing committee papers, presentations and briefings and able to present • Qualitative and quantitative information succinctly to enable effective decision making. • Ability to identify and manage process improvements and coordinate effective change initiatives. • Ability to manage competing end-user demands and time critical schedules, prioritising simultaneous issues and rapidly evaluate alternate action plans. • Analytical skills and the ability to use them effectively in an information systems environment, identifying wider implications and strategic goals. • An ability to operate in a complex, fast-moving, deadline driven environment. • Knowledge and understanding of the principles of Estates and Facilities Management, procurement, service management and supplier management. • Substantial experience of managing projects within a complex business environment. • Experience, in PMO. Ability to produce clear reports, plans and presentations to all levels of staff • Experience of managing and influencing change and compliance in a fast moving situation. • Substantial experience in providing senior secretariat skills. Desirable • Understanding of the Higher Education sector and its corporate processes; Finance, • HR, Student Systems and Research Management Systems. • Excellent planning skills and the ability to take initiative. • Microsoft Project, Word and Excel. • Experience of budgetary review/management and financial reporting. • Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills. • Professional and discrete approach to reflect organisational level at which role holder must operate Personal Qualities • Ability to communicate clearly in speech and in writing and translate complex technical concepts for end users of all levels of technical competence. • Resilient and robust with the ability to prioritise in a fast paced and fluid environment to ensure business delivery. • Highly organised. • Able to work well and to a high standard under pressure and to deadlines. • Ability to work constructively and collaboratively with colleagues • Ability to work effectively in a team environment, sharing knowledge and skills and developing productive working relationships. • An ability to manage time effectively and plan and supervise the work of others to achieve goals.
Business Manager
9
5. What is it like to work in the Estates Office?
Benefits All staff at the University of Birmingham are able to access a wide range of benefits, including a progressive pay structure, three different types of pension for different staff groups, and a generous 40 days off a year, made up of 25 days annual holiday, 7 closed days and 8 bank holidays. (For part-time staff, holidays are calculated pro rata). To help you achieve a better balance between your family and work responsibilities, we run a flexible working scheme with options including part-time work, job sharing, term-time only working, flexi-time and compressed hours, as well as discounts on childcare and three on site day nurseries. We also offer generous maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption leave, as well as 13 weeks parental leave for those with children under five. Staff can also access personal and professional development courses, as well as a mentoring and coaching scheme, and leadership training programmes for managers. There are a range of employee schemes and discounts available, including private medical and dental schemes, retail of- fers, and a range of sustainable travel discounts, including a generous cycle to work scheme. To support staff so they are happy and healthy, we also have Citizens Advice onsite and offer a range of confidential services via our Employee Advice and Support Services, including an advice and listening service, disability and additional needs service, harassment advis- ers and mediation. At the University of Birmingham, you join a welcoming and diverse community with people from over 150 countries. Our campus is constantly evolving with exceptional facilities, plenty of space to study and beautiful grounds to relax, all within touching distance of Birmingham’s vibrant city centre Renumeration The post offers a salary level that will enable the University to attract ambitious and talented individuals. In addition to salary, the University offers a generous benefits package including: • USS pension scheme • Access to our sporting facilities • Excellent transport links including the University station • 40 days holiday including additional closed days • Relocation package available • Other benefits including childcare vouchers, bus and rail season tickets and a cycle purchase scheme.
Feedback from our staff
“I’ve seen the campus transform in recent years, and the work really inspired me because I saw the teamwork in action and the positive impact this makes to others. On a personal level, I pride myself on being professional, respectful and I firmly believe in taking a collaborative and sustainable approach to work, so when I saw a position within the Estates Office I knew I had to apply. I love working as part of a team to achieve a common goal, and I know my background in the private sector has prepared me for this role.” Matt Beveridge - Estates Innovation Manager “Since joining the Estates Team I’ve been welcomed into a group with a crucial role in the running of University life. It’s an exciting time to be part of the Team and I’ve had the opportunity to get to know colleagues through a number of initiatives to enhance the group even further. A role within Estates has provided a great platform on which to engage and build relationships with the wider University, across academia, with students and with the Professional Services groups.” Lydia Dutton - Sustainability Manager “Working in the Estates Mechanical Team, no two days are ever the same. Covering a vast array of Mechanical and Plumbing issues combined with working with a great team of people makes working for Estates both an interesting and enjoyable job.” Carl Meacham - Mechanical Tradesperson
6. Appointment process and how to apply For a confidential discussion please contact our retained recruitment advisor Michael Hewlett of The Management Recruitment Group on; Michael.Hewlett@mrgpeople.co.uk or on 020 3962 9900. Applications should consist of a comprehensive CV and covering letter outlining key matching experience. Interviews at the University will be held on Thursday 3rd June 2021.
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14Made with FlippingBook Annual report