Strategic Planning And Insight Manager

Closing Date: 9th February 2024 - 12:00 noon Interview date: Mid-February 2024 Flexible and remote working is an option but must be able to attend Milton Keynes ad hoc as required. Change your career, change lives The Open University is the UK’s largest university, a world leader in flexible part-time education combining a mission to widen access to higher education with research excellence, transforming lives through education. The Business Development Unit (BDU) is committed to the delivery of innovative and profitable learning solutions, for students, businesses, and partners in the UK and globally. The BDU is a key contributor to the Open University’s (OU) strategy for extending reach to more diverse groups of learners through a range of channels, learning opportunities and partnerships that enable innovation and income diversification. The Unit plays a key role in delivering growth in existing markets and establishing the University in new markets, including apprenticeships. The role The Open University is recruiting a Strategic Planning and Insight Manager. The Strategic Planning and Insight Manager will sit within the Business Management portfolio at the heart of the Business Development Unit (BDU). Working closely with the Head of Strategic Planning and Insight, the post holder will play a key role in supporting development of the BDU’s strategy and plans to reach more and diverse groups of learners, employers and partners, to deliver income growth and extend the Open University’s reach. Skills and experience Proven ability to develop complex and compelling business plans, proposals and investment cases. An ability to analyse complex information quickly and accurately for communicating simple narratives effectively to multiple internal and external audiences, through reports, papers and briefs. Experience of complex stakeholder engagement, building relationships, influencing and negotiating at multiple levels, in a challenging and dynamic environment. Proven ability to think strategically and proactively identify and resolve complex problems and issues. Demonstrate the following qualities: creative and resourceful self-starter with business vision and acumen supported by excellent Planning and prioritising capabilities, and the ability to cope with multiple demands effectively in a fast-paced and changing environment. Experience of developing strategic insights that support navigation of opportunities and business decisions. Capacity for leading and managing projects– no formal qualifications or specific prior experience is required, but candidates should be able to demonstrate excellent project management skills or experience.