Placements Manager (SCI

Career Spotlight: Placements Manager - Shape the Future of Pharmacy Professionals

For ambitious professionals seeking a impactful role at the nexus of education and industry, the opportunity to become a Placements Manager within the esteemed School of Pharmacy presents a compelling career path. This position is not merely a managerial role; it is a chance to be at the forefront of shaping the next generation of pharmacy professionals, contributing directly to their development and training.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Strategic Impact: You will be instrumental in overseeing placement and careers activities for both undergraduate and postgraduate pharmacy programmes. This includes guiding MPharm students through compulsory clinical placements and supporting their transition to Foundation training, as well as managing Year in Industry placements for MSci and MSc students. Your work will directly influence the practical readiness of future pharmacists.
• Collaborative Environment: This role thrives on collaboration. You will work closely with the dedicated Careers and Employability Service to ensure students receive bespoke support, such as access to work experience, careers fairs, and networking opportunities with employers and alumni. Furthermore, you'll engage with academic leads, senior management, and an established network of placement providers, fostering a rich ecosystem for student success.
• Proactive Development: A significant aspect of this role involves the proactive forecasting and sourcing of placements. This requires an innovative mindset and a passion for exploring new ideas, encouraging the development of new working methods within the team and for the benefit of students.
• Professional Growth: The position offers substantial opportunities for professional development. You will hone your skills in building and nurturing relationships with external stakeholders, managing and delivering projects with minimal supervision, and leveraging excellent communication, IT, planning, and negotiation skills. An analytical approach to problem-solving will be a significant asset.
• Attractive Benefits: Beyond the intrinsic rewards of the role, the School of Pharmacy offers a generous holiday entitlement and a comprehensive benefits package. This includes a contributory pension scheme and access to staff benefit options that can lead to significant savings on childcare, shopping, travel, and various other services.
• Flexible Working Options: Understanding the diverse needs of modern professionals, this permanent role is offered on a full-time basis (36.25 hours per week). However, applications are warmly welcomed from candidates seeking part-time arrangements (minimum 29 hours per week), with salary pro-rata for part-time hours.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Experience in Placements/Higher Education: While not strictly mandatory, a genuine understanding of student placements, the challenges within Higher Education, and the dynamics of the graduate employment market will be highly advantageous. This insight will allow you to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact.
• Relationship Building Prowess: The success of this role hinges on your ability to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, from academic staff to external industry partners. Your proven experience in this area will be a key differentiator.
• Self-Motivation and Autonomy: The description emphasizes the need for self-motivation and the ability to manage projects with minimal supervision. Candidates who thrive in environments where they can take ownership and drive initiatives forward will find this role particularly fulfilling.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: The dynamic nature of placement management requires a sharp, analytical mind capable of anticipating needs, identifying potential issues, and devising effective solutions.

This Placements Manager role offers a unique blend of strategic responsibility, collaborative engagement, and professional growth within a vibrant academic setting. If you are driven by a passion for nurturing talent and possess the requisite skills and experience, this could be the perfect stepping stone in your career, empowering you to make a tangible difference in the world of pharmacy.