## Opportunity Review: Lead Change Management at the University of East London
This review provides a comprehensive overview of a compelling opportunity within the University of East London (UEL), focusing on key advantages and considerations for prospective candidates looking to advance their careers in change management.
The University of East London, with its rich history dating back to 1898, is embarking on an exciting new chapter focused on "Industry 5.0 careers-first education." This strategic direction emphasizes preparing students for the jobs of the future and fostering innovation. UEL is deeply committed to cultivating a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable talent pipeline, making it a forward-thinking institution at the forefront of educational evolution.
This specific role sits within the newly established Strategic Development and Delivery Directorate, a crucial team responsible for partnering with stakeholders across the university to achieve UEL's vision. This dynamic directorate comprises four key portfolios: Insights & Decision Support, Strategy & Performance, Portfolio & Benefits, and Change & Improvement. Your contribution will be instrumental in shaping effective decision-making, enhancing the staff and student experience, and driving lasting positive transformations.
Key Advantages for Candidates:
- Pioneering a New Function: This is a unique opportunity to develop and lead a team of Change Managers and establish a comprehensive change management framework and toolkit from its inception within a newly formed directorate.
- Shaping Institutional Change Capability: You will play a pivotal role in growing the university's change capability at all levels, empowering leaders, managers, and staff to successfully navigate and embed transformation initiatives.
- Leveraging Expert Resources: UEL provides access to a Prosci site license, offering valuable resources to support your work and UEL's progression in change maturity.
- Building a Community of Practice: The role involves developing a community of change agents, fostering collaboration and embedding change for the benefit of the entire UEL community.
- Strategic Impact: Your work will directly contribute to the university's vision and strategic goals, offering a significant opportunity for career advancement and professional growth.
- Commitment to Continuous Improvement: UEL is a community that is "constantly moving forward, never satisfied with the status quo," indicating an environment that values innovation and progress.
- Robust Benefits Package: UEL offers a genuinely competitive salary (starting from £53,040 per annum inclusive of London Weighting, dependent on experience) and an excellent benefits package, underscoring their investment in their employees.
- Inclusive and Diverse Workplace: UEL is a proud advocate for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, evidenced by their Stonewall membership and Athena Swan awards, and is actively working to close the diversity pay gap.
Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Leadership and Team Development: This role requires strong leadership skills to build, mentor, and guide a team of Change Managers. Your ability to develop others will be as crucial as your technical change management expertise.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Influence: Success will hinge on your exceptional communication and influencing skills, enabling you to build robust relationships and gain buy-in across all levels of the organization, even outside your direct reporting lines.
- Driving Process Improvement: A proven track record in delivering process improvement activities using data and evidence to identify root causes and implement solutions is essential.
- Coaching and Support: You will be expected to develop and deliver process improvement coaching and support to colleagues and senior leaders, requiring a strong coaching aptitude.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in process mapping and online collaboration tools is a requirement, alongside a formal education including an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) and a LEAN/Six Sigma qualification (or equivalent).
- Adaptability and Resilience: The role demands a resilient and adaptable professional who can navigate the complexities of organizational change and drive meaningful outcomes.
- Proactive Application: Given the potential for early closure due to high application volume, interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly.
This role at the University of East London presents a significant opportunity for a seasoned change management professional to make a tangible impact and lead transformative initiatives within a forward-thinking educational institution. If you are driven by innovation, committed to fostering positive change, and eager to contribute to a diverse and inclusive environment, this position offers a compelling pathway for your career progression.