Director of Operations and Business Development

Who we are

Newbattle Abbey College is Scotland’s life-changing adult education college, offering extensive support to adults returning to education and to younger learners at points of transition. It is one of Scotland’s smallest colleges, offering access to further and higher education in social sciences and humanities as well as rural skills. We receive core funding from the government, and the balance of our income is generated through funding and commercial activities, including events and residential programmes. Our partners include national agencies, colleges, universities, schools, local authorities, employers and the voluntary sector. We also have an international dimension and have partnerships with language schools who bring students from all over the world, and a long term partnership with Wisconsin University.

Why we have a vacancy

Due to the retirement of the current post-holder, the college is seeking to appoint a talented and enthusiastic Director of Operations and Business Development (DOBD) to lead the further development of the college’s commercial activity and corporate services.

What the role is

As one of the Senior Management Team, working closely with the Principal and Depute Principal, the DOBD plays a major part in achieving the college’s strategic objectives and in contributing to the leadership and development of the college. A good knowledge of a range of corporate functions is necessary, as the post holder will provide leadership across the college’s operational and professional services. This includes, finance, estates, catering, IT and HR. An ability to identify commercial opportunities is important, as this is a strong outward facing role, leading on and supporting our commercial and other strategic partnerships

What we can offer you

An opportunity to play a central role in the strategic leadership and direction of this unique college at an exciting time. Our new Strategic Plan 2023-2026 has just been published and you will play a major part in achieving our vision for the future. You will work in a beautiful 16^th century building set in 125 acres of ancient woodland and parkland, just a few miles from Edinburgh. We offer a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance and an excellent pension scheme.

What you can offer us

We are looking for a candidate who is able to embrace the college’s purpose, vision and values and who will thrive in a dynamic and unique environment. You will be highly adaptable and enjoy working in a small team to find creative solutions and achieve goals. Qualified to SCQF level 10 (Honours Degree level) and committed to personal and professional development, it would be an advantage to have a finance qualification, but not essential. However, we would want experience of financial planning, management and reporting. The ability to lead teams across the college and excellent communication skills are essential. Good decision making, organizational and problem solving skills are also necessary.