Product Manager (M

Product Manager Opportunity at Birmingham City University: Chart Your Career Path in Higher Education

Birmingham City University (BCU) presents an exciting opportunity for a highly organized and analytical professional to step into the role of Product Manager within its Recruitment Operations and Insight function. This full-time, permanent position offers a competitive starting salary of £44,131, with potential for growth to £51,182 per annum, making it an attractive prospect for career progression in the dynamic higher education sector.

As the Product Manager, you will be at the forefront of shaping BCU's academic offerings. This pivotal role involves overseeing the university's comprehensive portfolio review and management activities. You'll be instrumental in coordinating efforts related to the broader product landscape, including the meticulous management and monitoring of existing courses, the evaluation of proposed new programs, and direct contributions to fee setting and the university's scholarship strategy.

This role demands a collaborative spirit, requiring close partnerships with colleagues across Marketing, Recruitment, and Communications, as well as the academic Schools. The objective is to foster a shared understanding of portfolio processes, enable informed decision-making, and ensure the timely and effective implementation of any course changes.

Key Responsibilities and Advantages for Candidates:

• Strategic Portfolio Management: You will lead and manage the university's portfolio review processes, offering expert advice and guidance to stakeholders. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your strategic thinking and leadership skills in a critical area of university operations.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: The role emphasizes informing fee-setting processes and contributing to the institutional scholarship strategy. This requires strong analytical skills and the ability to leverage market insight and institutional data, offering a chance to hone your analytical prowess and directly impact financial and recruitment strategies.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Building strong working relationships with academic units and professional service departments is central to success. This aspect of the role provides invaluable experience in stakeholder management and navigating complex organizational structures, which is highly transferable across industries.
• Process Development and Governance: You will be responsible for developing and maintaining processes for accurate record-keeping and will play a role in the university's course approval governance groups. This experience in process optimization and understanding governance frameworks is a significant career asset.
• Career Development: The defined salary progression within the role signifies a commitment to employee growth and recognition of developing expertise. Furthermore, the opportunity to work within a leading educational institution provides a stimulating and impactful work environment.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Higher Education Focus: While experience in product or course portfolio management is ideal, specific experience within higher education or a related field will be particularly advantageous. Candidates looking to build a career in this sector will find this role a strong stepping stone.
• Analytical and Research Skills: A strong foundation in data analysis and market research is crucial for success. If you thrive on uncovering insights and using data to inform strategic decisions, this role will allow you to excel.
• Governance and Regulatory Understanding: Knowledge of the regulatory framework for higher education course provision and approval processes is a significant plus. This role offers a chance to deepen your understanding of these critical aspects of the sector.
• Project Management Proficiency: The ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively is essential. This role will challenge and develop your project management capabilities.
• Employment Structure: It's important to note that candidates will typically be employed through BCU Support Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary. However, those with prior Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) membership who wish to continue within it will be employed directly by Birmingham City University.

This Product Manager position at Birmingham City University is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to influence the future of education and develop a rewarding career in a vibrant and supportive environment. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for education and a knack for analysis, this role could be the perfect catalyst for your next career move.