Business and Operations Manager in Cambridge: 696153

Q: What are the key responsibilities of the Business and Operations Manager at INI?

The role involves managing financial organisation, HR responsibility , planning of programmes and events, grant applications, and leading administrative staff. You will work closely with the Director and Deputy Director to ensure smooth institute operations.

Q: Is experience in higher education required for this administration job?

While not mandatory, experience of HE administration is ideal. The role requires strong communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with academic visitors and stakeholders. See administration jobs in higher education for similar opportunities.

Business and Operations Manager

About us

The INI is a renowned national and international visitor research centre running long-term programmes on selected themes, with applications in a wide range of societal, scientific and technological areas. It attracts over 3,000 leading scientists per year, both from the UK and from overseas, to interact on research over extended periods. The Institute has seen a significant period of change and development since the pandemic, with new funding streams and initiatives, which makes this an exciting opportunity for the successful candidate.

The role

As our Business and Operations Manager, you will be responsible for managing the Institute in terms of financial organisation, HR responsibility, planning of programmes and events, and grant applications. You will work closely with the Institute Director and Deputy Director, to ensure the smooth running of the Institute, and lead the administrative staff to provide high quality support for the delivery of the research programmes and associated events.

What you will need

To thrive in this role, you should have significant administration and line management experience, coupled with detailed knowledge of finance and HR procedures, and experience of implementing new strategies. Excellent oral and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills are vital, including the ability to liaise confidently with staff, academic visitors, and other stakeholders at all levels. You will be educated to at least a first degree level (or equivalent), ideally with experience of HE administration.

In return, you will receive an extensive reward/benefit package including:

41 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
Excellent benefits including a generous pension scheme, discount portal, cycle to work scheme, access to the University accommodation service, employee assistance programme, family-friendly policies along with many more
Potential for hybrid working
Extensive Personal & Professional Development opportunities and University training courses

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are needed for the Business and Operations Manager role?

Candidates should hold at least a first degree (or equivalent) and ideally possess higher education administration experience. Significant administration and line management experience, plus detailed knowledge of finance and HR procedures, are essential.

📋What are the key responsibilities of the Business and Operations Manager at INI?

The role involves managing financial organisation, HR responsibility, planning of programmes and events, grant applications, and leading administrative staff. You will work closely with the Director and Deputy Director to ensure smooth institute operations.

💼What benefits are offered for the Business and Operations Manager position?

Benefits include 41 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, discount portal, cycle to work scheme, employee assistance programme, family-friendly policies, potential hybrid working, and extensive professional development opportunities.

🏛️Is experience in higher education required for this administration job?

While not mandatory, experience of HE administration is ideal. The role requires strong communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with academic visitors and stakeholders. See administration jobs in higher education for similar opportunities.

📝How do I apply for the Business and Operations Manager role in Cambridge?

Applications should be submitted before the deadline of 28 June 2026. Prepare a CV and cover letter highlighting your administration, finance, and HR expertise. Check higher-ed admin jobs for application tips.

Business and Operations Manager

University of Cambridge

Cambridge, United Kingdom