The University of Leicester is seeking an experienced Operations Director for the National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO), to lead and direct the development and operation of all professional and support services in NCEO nationally, ensuring that the services support the activities of NCEO effectively. This includes strategic planning, financial management, risk management, and operational delivery. Acting as a key member of the NCEO Executive Board, you will collaborate with academic and administrative leaders to shape the vision and strategies of the Centre. Working alongside the Executive Director, you will be responsible for overall good governance processes within NCEO, ensuring that the NCEO business and operational functions are working in line with its agreed strategy and policy at all times and that NCEO able to provide assurance of its processes to the satisfaction of stakeholders and the NCEO national partners. You’ll manage a team of 10-15 staff and oversee resources supporting over 100 researchers across the UK. This role involves close engagement with government bodies, international space agencies, and funding organisations to foster innovation and maintain NCEO’s reputation as a trusted research institute in Earth Observation. For more information, please see the job summary form. About you You are a proven leader with experience in organisational strategy, operational delivery, and managing complex projects. Your ability to translate strategic goals into measurable outcomes is matched by your financial acumen and governance expertise. A degree or significant experience in science, business, or a relevant field is essential, alongside a history of building partnerships with stakeholders and leading diverse teams. Your communication skills enable you to inspire, motivate, and manage change effectively. Experience in Earth Observation or related research sectors and familiarity with funding agencies will be advantageous. Additional information Informal enquiries regarding this opportunity are welcome, and should be made to Professor John Remedios, Director of NCEO on [email protected]. We anticipate that interviews will take place during week commencing 03 February 2025. The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world. As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive. We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.