Head of Institute of Place Management

• Manchester
• Grade 10 (£56,021 – £64,914)
• Permanent

Head of Institute of Place Management (IPM) Professional Membership Network

If you are a senior professional with a strong interest in place management and leadership and a proven track record of influencing relevant political agendas, policy and practice, we would love to hear from you.

The IPM at Manchester Metropolitan University has a long-established record in place management; over the past thirty years our researchers have developed the knowledge that has influenced the practice of thousands of practitioners in their quest to make better places. We have had a significant impact on policy too, having secured multi-million-pound grants and projects, including the High Streets Task Force, a five-year initiative run by the IPM for Government, to revitalise England’s high streets.

Our vision is to be the global leader in place management research and education which enhances the quality, sustainability, and vibrancy of urban and rural places through the co-creation and transfer of knowledge with a global network of scholars, policymakers and practitioners.

To support and enable that vision, we have created a new role which presents an exciting opportunity to provide strategic leadership of the new IPM Professional Membership Network, which will support and enable the development and impact of place-based research at the University.

About the role

This is a critical role at a pivotal moment, as the University looks to build on the huge success of the IPM and the legacy of the High Streets Task Force, which has clearly demonstrated how Manchester Met’s research and education in place management has a fundamental role to play in making better places.

Working closely with senior place-based academics in the department of Marketing, International Business and Tourism (MIBT), you will lead and inspire a high-profile professional network of place leaders (from government, public, community and private sectors – including senior leaders up to Chief Executive level or equivalent) ensuring knowledge generated is informed by the needs of research users, gets transferred effectively to the professional network, and is impactful in making better places.

By proactively horizon-scanning and applying strategic judgment to identify suitable opportunities for the Network to undertake, you will drive forward the vision and deliver significant impact, balancing University priorities with those of external stakeholders.

Supported by the IPM Professional Membership Network Engagement Officer, you will lead and manage a smooth and effective transition from the IPM Professional Membership Body to the new Network. Working within a new governance framework, you will develop and lead an offer that ensures the Network achieves its core purpose and is sustainable, with continued membership and engagement from existing key external stakeholders, as well as attracting new members.

For the right candidate, this will be a fantastic chance to play a high-profile role in helping the University build on its success to date and cement its position as an international leader in place management to a global network of policymakers and practitioners.

About you

You will need to be a passionate and credible figurehead to a high-profile network of place leaders whilst, at the same time, be confident in articulating and advocating for the purpose and priorities of place-based research at the University.

You will need to bring significant senior professional experience or demonstrable ability to lead a national or international professional or policy network, along with proven experience of influencing political agendas and policy relevant to place management and leadership.

You will be used to balancing the needs of stakeholders with the purpose/vision of an organisation to ensure that visions are translated into actions and are achieved. You will be an advocate of good governance. You will be a team player with excellent leadership and communication skills, as well as an attention to detail, to ensure effective delivery of projects and activities. You will be passionate about service quality and comfortable working in an outcome-orientated environment, with KPIs.

You will have demonstrable experience in developing national (or international) narratives, based on evidence, that change or challenge perceptions or perspectives; and be confident promoting these through public speaking and media work. You will be comfortable leading and managing cross-institutional teams and have a strong track record of building successful, outcomes-based relationships and networks which generate income.

About Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University has been proudly driving progress for more than two centuries. As one of the UK’s largest and most popular universities, we’re a force for good, dedicated to delivering outstanding research and excellent education.

Much more than a university, we are a place where ambitious people unite as a community and make meaningful connections. Where world-class facilities combine with exceptional minds to improve lives through innovation. We welcome those who are committed, talented, and hardworking. People who believe in our values and are as driven as we are to achieve shared goals, together as one.

Once you’re here, you’ll have the autonomy to build a role with purpose, within an environment designed to unlock your full potential. To join us in our commitment to making a difference and discover more than a job, a career with true meaning, where your work can be forever bold and life-changing – for you and others – every single day.

Who to talk to: If you want an informal chat about the role then please contact Professor Cathy Parker c.parker@mmu.ac.uk; or Alex Byars, Director of Business Engagement and Partnerships, a.byars@mmu.ac.uk

Manchester Metropolitan University is committed to creating an intentionally inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We understand the importance of having a diverse workforce and the benefits it can bring to ensuring diversity of thought and innovation in everything we do. We, therefore, encourage applications from our local and international communities, in particular people from ethnic minority groups, disabled people and people who identify as LGBTQIA+.

Closing date: 22 September 2024

Click here to apply online