Director of Commercial Candidate Information Pack
1
Welcome!
Dear Candidate, Thank you for your interest in this important role at Oxford Brookes University. I hope that the following details are of help to you. Oxford Brookes University is one of the UK’s leading modern higher education institutions. The University’s Strategic Plan, Strategy 2035, identifies four strategic pillars: Education and Enterprise, Research and Knowledge Exchange, Infrastructure and Services, and External. The strategy builds on the institution’s existing strengths and sets a framework for excellence and innovation to deliver further impact for the benefit of all of our communities in the context of an increasingly competitive environment. To help drive forward its strategic plan, the University is looking to appoint a Director of Commercial. Reporting into the Director of Estates and Campus Services, the deliverables are: • Increase commercial income by at least 10% in year 1 and 20% in year 2 from £30m to £33m to £36m, with net income (after direct costs) increased from £10m to £11m to £12m. • Deliver the recently approved commercial strategy and ensure effective delivery • Deliver phase 2 of the proposed Campus & Commercial Services restructure. Working with the Deputy Director - Estates to review the operational delivery and consider how it might be structured to provide the most effective and efficient operational delivery model (currently we have artificial barriers between campus and residential operations and between in-house and contracted teams). • Continue to optimise the client experience and minimise bureaucracy. • Speed up decision-making and empower managers by devolving responsibilities. I very much hope you decide to apply and I look forward to engaging with you as part of the recruitment process. Jerry Woods Director of Estates and Campus Services
Success at Oxford Brookes 2035 Strategy Our Students Our People and Culture Our Oxford Our Campuses Estates and Campus Services The Role Benefits of Working for Brookes How to Apply
4 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 17 1
3
2
Success at Oxford Brookes Oxford Brookes is one of the UK’s leading modern universities, known for its strength in teaching, innovative approaches to learning, and its focus on employability. The latest nationwide review of university research, the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), found that 97% of research at Oxford Brookes was ‘internationally recognised’ or higher. It also found that 70% of research was judged to be world leading or internationally excellent. The REF 2021 had an increased focus on ‘research impact’ - research that demonstrates wider benefits beyond academia, including how it brings tangible changes to society and life, and the public value it delivers.
• Among the world’s top universities in 19 individual subject areas (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023) • Oxford Brookes has a strong reputation for teaching - we came 5th for teaching quality in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings, 2023. • Ranked in the top 10 in South East England (Times/Sunday Times University Guide 2024) • The world’s first Fairtrade University (awarded Fairtrade status in October 2003). • In the Top 20 in the world for our Global MBA (QS Distance Online MBA Rankings, 2023).
We are working to deliver our 2035 strategy. In particular we are working towards developing: • an inclusive and diverse student and employee population • a student experience of unparalleled reputation and renown • a modern, inspirational setting to study and learn • a world-class, focused and selective research portfolio • an enviable international reputation and footprint • our role as a key regional influencer • outstanding partnerships, speaking to our connectedness • sector-leading infrastructure, services and IT • financial sustainability, generating surpluses for agreed reinvestment plans.
5
4
We have worked closely with our students, staff, local community and other stakeholders to create a new strategy for Oxford Brookes University for 2020/2021 and beyond. As part of this work we have articulated our bold and ambitious 2035 Vision Statement as an expression of the kind of institution we want to be in 2035 and the steps we will take in order to achieve this vision. 2035 Strategy
Our Vision Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. It is a modern, forward thinking institution rooted in and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. Through our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange we make the world a better and fairer place. We are internationally respected for our bold leadership and innovation in education; for helping organisations to develop sustainably; and for impactful research that is changing the world. We equip people with the skills, knowledge, mind-set, and attributes required to face new challenges and thrive in a complex, uncertain world. We inspire and drive collective progress through individual endeavour. Our inclusive and friendly community is our greatest asset. We embrace supportive challenge as a catalyst for change. Through the open exchange of knowledge and ideas, by prioritising the progression of equality, diversity and inclusion and seeking out the new, we shape tomorrow. Education and Enterprise Pillar Oxford Brookes is a student-centred University. Our overarching aim is to deliver an outstanding educational experience which enables each of our graduates to be skilled, confident and successful. This will be achieved within a collaborative and inclusive community of scholars and practitioners, working together to make an impact on society. Research and Innovation Pillar Our portfolio of research excellence builds on our distinctive disciplinary base, fosters interdisciplinary and collaborative working, and delivers transformational social, cultural and economic benefit for our communities both locally and globally.
We will strengthen our inclusive and connected research community, increase our collaborations with regional and global partners and enhance our capacity to drive forward sustainable innovation, knowledge exchange and enterprise. We will advance opportunities to lead and contribute to local, national and international initiatives using our expertise and facilities. People and Culture Pillar Our ambition is to create a vibrant, inclusive and supportive community distinguished by strong collaboration and communication between academic and professional practitioners, between academics from different disciplines and between academics and students. This in turn will foster a place where students, educators, researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs can flourish and excel. We are committed to continuously developing and supporting diversity, inclusivity and openness to foster a trust-based culture. Partnerships and Place Pillar In 2035, our place within the vibrant and globally-recognised innovation ecosystem that is Oxford, will be a source of distinction, attracting an inclusive and diverse community of students and staff from across the UK and the world. Our location and the opportunities it offers will underpin our position as one of the country’s leading modern, forward-thinking and supportive universities. View the full strategy here
7
6
Our People and Culture Oxford Brookes University employs 2,800 people. We recognise that our staff are key to our continuing success. We are committed to creating a vibrant and inclusive working environment which supports colleagues to flourish and enjoy what they do. We want colleagues to feel valued, empowered, challenged, stimulated, involved, appreciated and trusted. We provide comprehensive and progressive employment conditions, including flexible working, opportunities for staff development, and career progression, and a commitment to creating the conditions for a positive work experience, underpinned by our Guiding Principles. Community and involvement are important features of our culture. We encourage discussion, participation and open communication amongst colleagues at all levels of the institution with colleagues contributing to key decisions and senior staff appointments. We celebrate success including activities such as the Brookes People Awards, an event which recognises outstanding colleagues who exemplify our Guiding Principles. We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to ensuring that everyone in our community can flourish in a culture of respect and support, where we celebrate difference and thrive on each other’s success.
Our Values In the development and nurturing of intellectual and enterprising creativity, we make our highest contribution to society. Social responsibility demands that all aspects of our activity should be sustainable. Equality, inclusivity and the celebration of diversity must be the foundation for all we do. We will never be content with anything other than a wholehearted commitment to the quality of the student experience. We will continue to enhance the value - and the perception of value - of our social as well as educational mission. Our Guiding Principles These are defined as: Inclusivity We take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value, and provide equal opportunity to all.
Generosity of spirit We believe people flourish in a culture of respect and support, where we celebrate difference and thrive on each other’s success. Our students manifest a generosity of spirit as they progress in the world. Confidence We have confidence in our staff and students, and we know that we prepare our graduates well for a fulfilling and valuable life. Through their success, we continue to earn our outstanding reputation. Connectedness Our academic excellence is underpinned by a history of learning by doing. Our connections and our Oxford roots are fundamental to our students’ experiences and our successful future. Enterprising creativity We’re adaptable and flexible, and consider a fresh approach in everything we do - because we know our sustainability depends on a pioneering spirit.
Our Students There are approximately 17,500 students at Oxford Brookes University, 72% of these are undergraduates
Teaching Excellence At Oxford Brookes we are passionate about our students’ learning experience. Our lecturers have received 11 National Teaching Fellowships for outstanding teaching, amongst other awards. Our ambition is for Oxford Brookes to be a fully inclusive institution that reflects society at large, and provides a breadth of opportunities, an excellent student experience and successful outcomes for all our students irrespective of their background.
Staying ahead We aim to continue providing our students with a stimulating learning experience, including opportunities to develop skills both inside and outside their studies, with co- curricular projects to fuel their enthusiasm and hone their abilities.
with 28% being postgraduates. 81% are from the UK, with 19% from the EU and the rest of the world. Our students and graduates are known for their employability. They benefit from the strong links we have with businesses and employers both locally and internationally, from local schools and hospitals to organisations such as Oxfam, BMW, KPMG, Ferrari and Microsoft.
9
8
Our Oxford
Our Campuses Oxford Brookes University operates on three campuses in Oxford: Headington, Harcourt Hill and Wheatley, with a smaller campus in Swindon, focused on nursing education and operating department practice. Headington Campus comprises three sites. The Headington Hill site is set in mature parkland and home to Headington Hill Hall, a 19th century former manor house. A 15-minute walk away, the Marston Road site is a hub for healthcare teaching on the campus. The flagship £132m John Henry Brookes Building opened on the Gipsy Lane site in 2014. Winning a number of awards, it has transformed the experience of students and the wider University community. It houses the main central services at Headington, including the library, social study space, student support services, catering facilities and Brookes Union. The Business School relocated to refurbished premises at the end of 2017. Brand new teaching spaces and industry-standard science laboratories also opened in 2017, alongside landscaping of external spaces, and the new Sir Kenneth Wheare Hall. Harcourt Hill Campus is home to a range of humanities and sports teaching. The original Westminster College, founded in 1851, has had a home at Harcourt Hill since the 1950s and merged with Oxford Brookes University in 2000. The Westminster Hall student residence also sits on the campus, alongside sports facilities, including a swimming pool. Wheatley Campus became part of the then Oxford Polytechnic in 1975. Over recent years, the campus has seen
Oxford is a beautiful city with a rich cultural history. The city is famous for education and architecture, museums and green spaces. It has a population of 161,300 and is currently the 12th fastest growing city with one-third of the population aged 18-29. There are 4,750 businesses in Oxford providing 120,000 jobs. Key sectors of industry are health, education, research, technology, tourism, car manufacturing and publishing. Oxfordshire is amongst the top five technology innovation ecosystems in the world and home to over 1,500 high tech companies employing around 43,000 people. Oxford Brookes is proud of its home in Oxford and proud to make a significant economic, social and cultural contribution to the city; from contributing £1m per day to the UK economy, through our links with the high-skill regional economy to the expertise of our nurses and teachers in local hospitals and schools. We partner up to raise aspirations in schools, widen access to those under-represented in higher education and to provide high-level consultancy to small and medium sized enterprises. Tourism is a thriving economy in the city, generating more than £780m annually. In 2016 Oxford was the seventh most visited city in the UK for overnight visits. Oxford is only an hour from London by train and many placements and field trips make the most of this easy access. The University is well served by a regular coach service to central London and to Heathrow and Gatwick airports. More information about the city of Oxford and the surrounding area is available at www.experienceoxfordshire.org
investment in engineering spaces and in 2017 saw further investment in key student and staff areas, including the creation of a new gym. Swindon Campus opened the newly refurbished Joel Joffe building in August 2016, almost two decades after the University first had a presence in the town. The Joel Joffe building provides clinical skills labs in a modern teaching location. Our future plans At Oxford Brookes we are continually investing in our campuses. Over the next ten years we are spending £220m to create further inspiring spaces for our staff and students. The plan sets out a significant programme of refurbishment along with some new build, and will see some of our academic and professional services activity moving to a different campus. Two exciting schemes include: Headington Hill site Oxford Brookes has set out proposals to enhance STEM and creative industries activity on its Headington Hill site. Our vision is to create a facility that not only allows our students and researchers to flourish, but brings the Oxford Brookes community together, boosts local collaboration and helps meet the needs of industry. Clive Booth Student Village The University has been granted planning permission (November 2021) to redevelop part of Clive Booth Student Village. A separate planning application to enable improvements to the footpath that connects the site to our Headington Hill site was approved in January 2022.
11
10
Estates and Campus Services
The Role - Director of Commercial Date last reviewed:
activities and delivering value for money within a campus environment that must respond to the changing needs of the University community. Demonstrable leadership experience, and the ability to build, develop and motivate large teams to meet or exceed targets and deliver high levels of customer care, is essential. Overall purpose of post: To deliver excellent customer/ student experience and a strategic approach to income generation and business development. The Director of Commercial will be responsible for identifying and driving commercial activity to ensure income growth and diversification across the University, by building new business relationships and partnerships maximising profit generation from the University’s assets and delivering by inspiring great performance from their team. The post holder will work closely with the Director of Estates and Campus Services, Deputy Director - Estates, and ECS Divisional Heads to develop a customer-focused service provision using in- house and outsourced service providers. Lead and work collaboratively with colleagues from across the Directorate and at an institutional level to enhance operational processes and integration.
February 2024 Grade of post Post number: FT or % P/T:
Estates and Campus Services (ECS) is an intrinsic part of the University, and is key to supporting the overall student experience and, therefore, student learning and satisfaction. ECS staff play an important role in the lives of students and staff every day and the way we deliver services and present the built environment has a demonstrable impact on the way in which Oxford Brookes is perceived and remembered.
ECS is responsible for a broad range of diverse facilities and services that directly and indirectly enhance the student experience. Our aim is to provide an estate and services that are excellent, value for money, safe and sustainable. Through the delivery of an Estate Strategy, and the provision of quality and cost effective services, ECS will support the delivery of the University's world-class research, including knowledge transfer, consultancy and commercial activities.
SS3 15779
Full Time
Permanent Principal location of work: Headington but frequent travel to any University campus / property (located in Oxford and Swindon) Immediate line manager: Director of Estates and Campus Services Staff managed: Direct line management of a team of managers with commercial activity responsibility: • Assistant Director Commercial Services • Assistant Director Campus Services The teams employed directly or through the partnerships/ supplier arrangements exceed 400 people and experience of leadership within a complex/ matrix structure will be key to success in this role. Qualifications required for post: A degree or equivalent. A post-graduate or professional qualification in a business, facilities management or marketing discipline is desirable. Experience required for post: A proven and recent track record at senior management level of identifying new business opportunities, driving business and profit growth across a range of commercial
Roles reporting into the Director of Commercial post are: Director of Commercial
Assistant Director Commercial Services
Assistant Director Campus Services
13
12
Person Specification 1. Education/Training Essential: • Degree or equivalent knowledge
Main duties: • To increase commercial income and EBITDA in line with the University's 5 Year Financial Plans. Agree and monitor income and profit generation targets for commercial activity with departmental heads and provide monthly updates to the Directorate on performance targets. Provide necessary analytical data and timely reports on business development opportunities. • Implement the delivery of the new commercial strategy across the range of ECS activities to maximise profit and optimise resource usage whilst delivering value for money and service excellence in a wide ranging soft FM environment.In conjunction with Estates Finance and Procurement teams, negotiate and procure new and existing contracts where required. • Through robust and evidence-based analysis and in collaboration with other service Directors, identify new market opportunities and take the lead on constructing robust business cases and business models to secure new contracts and sustainable client relationships. • Contribute to the strategic and operational planning, development and management of the Directorate of Estates and Campus Services (ECS) as a key member of the Directorate and deputise for the Director, when required. Take executive lead responsibility for the identification, development and implementation of all Directorate joint ventures and partnerships. • Promote a culture of continuous improvement, customer- service focus and performance management, supported by agreed targets. Ensure service partners are delivering to their KPIs and are fully supported by the Directorate to ensure optimal delivery and cost effectiveness. • Chair Committees and participate in working groups across the University and Directorate as required. Represent the University at external meetings where required, which can involve the odd evening or weekend attendance. • Represent ECS as part of the Major Incident Team and the wider Business Continuity Process. Act as liaison point across the University and local agencies during a critical incident on and off campus.
• Proven experience of developing and managing contracts and service level agreements • Proven experience of developing and delivering commercial presentations to promote new business • Exemplary IT and proven business analytical skills Desirable: • Business development experience in a range of activities within the postholder’s responsibility and other activities undertaken by ECS. 4. Special Requirements Essential: • A driving licence and the ability to travel between sites internal and external to the University • Flexibility to work outside core hours occasionally • Experience of working with critical incidents that require university wide and local agency liaison and escalation on behalf of the University Desirable: • Hold a Personal Licence for the supply and sale of alcohol. Act as Designated Premises Supervisor for the various licensable areas of the university working and applicants will be able to work remotely for part of each week, provided that outputs and the ability to support staff on campus is achieved. Being on campus regularly will be required and will be subject to discussion at the time of appointment as to potential working patterns and arrangements 5. Other This role is suitable for hybrid
gained via substantial vocational and management experience.
• Professional accreditation in relevant area, or working
towards membership of relevant professional accreditation.
Desirable: • MBA or equivalent post-graduate commercial management or marketing professional qualification 2. Relevant Experience Essential: • Proven recent senior level experience of significant business and commercial development and driving growth in a large multidisciplinary environment Desirable: • Experience of working in an HE establishment with a commercial and/or soft FM focus 3. Relevant Skills/Aptitudes Essential: • Building and motivating a diverse team and building a supportive, inclusive culture, where high performance is achieved through teamwork and valuing the contribution of all • Strong business acumen including proven recent experience of marketing and developing new income streams • Able to work with a high degree of autonomy • Proven experience of successfully delivering change/re-organisation • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to communicate effectively with all stakeholders at all levels
15
14
Benefits of working at Brookes Oxford Brookes offers a wide range of benefits to enhance the staff experience. Annual Leave (including bank holidays and concessionary days) wall (Headington Campus), swimming pool (Harcourt Hill Campus) and a brand new gym (Wheatley Campus). Green spaces for recreation: All
campuses have landscaped gardens and quiet areas for recreation: and there are maps of ‘health walks’ (these are short routes through attractive surroundings close to all three campuses). Occupational Health Service: The University is committed to the health and welfare of its staff. The Occupational Health Service provides work-based support for illness and disability, and can refer staff for confidential counselling if necessary. Employee Assistance Programme: Offering round-the-clock advice and support as well as counselling on a wide range of topics such as finance, legal and health and wellbeing. Eye test and spectacle reimbursement: All staff who use VDU’s are entitled to a subsidised eye test while they work at Brookes and contribution to the cost of spectacles. Maternity, Adoption and Family Leave: We offer generous maternity leave with qualifying staff entitled to 63 weeks leave (both paid and unpaid). We offer the same leave for Adoption and Shared Parental Leave. Flexible and hybrid working: We support work-life balance for all staff, including career breaks, job sharing, flexible hours, etc. Library: All staff are welcome to use our libraries. Staff may borrow up to 30 books or other items from our lending stock. There is full access to both print and online resources including e-books, e-journals and databases.
• Senior Staff and Professors - 43 days • Additional Annual Leave: Staff may purchase up to five additional days leave per year (pro rata for part-time staff) via a deduction from salary spread throughout the leave year. Pension: We offer the Local Government Pension Scheme for professional services staff and the Teachers’ Pension Scheme for most academic staff. Staff who join Brookes and are in active membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) can continue membership of this scheme. Travel to Work: Car parking at Brookes is limited and daily charges apply. To support your journey to work and as part of our sustainability agenda, Brookes links with Cyclescheme to provide a cost-effective way of purchasing a bicycle. There are showers for cyclists (and walkers) at all three main campuses, and cycle training courses can be arranged for new or nervous cyclists. We also have a car share website and offer season ticket loans. Catering facilities: There are varied catering options on all campuses. Nursery: The Brookes nursery, located at Headington, is rated by Ofsted as Good, and caters for children aged four months to five years. Onsite dentist: Studental is an NHS dentist situated on the Headington Campus and can be used by staff. Brookes Sports: Extensive sports facilities for staff including fitness suites and classes, Oxfordshire’s premier climbing
17
16
How to Apply
Oxford Brookes University has engaged The Management Recruitment Group for the executive search process for this position, in addition to the public advertisement. Should you wish to discuss the role in strict confidence, please contact the University’s appointed recruitment partner James Gregory at The Management Recruitment Group on: James Gregory james.gregory@mrgglobal.com Applications should consist of a CV and covering letter. Closing date for applications is Sunday 10th March 2024. You are invited to complete an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form and this is available from our advising consultants at the Management Recruitment Group. Applications are welcomed from suitably qualified applicants whatever their background, especially candidates from BAME backgrounds as we are currently under-represented in our workforce at this level. Following the closing date, applications will be reviewed and The Management Recruitment Group will undertake preliminary meetings with selected candidates.
JOHN HENRY BROOKES BUILDING Oxford Brookes University
1
18
Page 1 Page 2-3 Page 4-5 Page 6-7 Page 8-9 Page 10-11 Page 12-13 Page 14-15 Page 16-17 Page 18Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs