Director of Technical Services

Technical Services - General (Technical Serv)

The University of Sunderland offers life-changing opportunities for 25,600 students across its campuses in Sunderland, London, Hong Kong, and through global partnerships with learning institutions in 15 countries. We're proud to be a top 50 UK University (Guardian University Guide 2024), with top-quality facilities, inclusive culture, and our vibrant, ever-changing city.

Join us in creating a future where technology empowers both students and employees to excel in their roles.

About the role

As our Director of Technical Services, you will collaborate closely with the Senior Leadership Team to develop and execute innovative IT strategies aligned with institutional objectives.

Your role will involve developing and implementing a forward-thinking technology strategy that harmonizes with the overarching University Strategic Plan. You will oversee the ongoing transformation of IT operations, ensuring efficiency, agility, and quality in service delivery. Furthermore, you'll drive the deployment of advanced technologies such as AI and automation to optimize processes and elevate the student experience.

About you

To excel in this role, you should have experience in a senior leadership role within IT, along with a track record of leading IT teams, deploying cutting-edge technologies at scale, and driving cultural change.

Expertise in managing key IT platforms, such as Microsoft, is essential, as well as excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Knowledge and understanding of General Data Protection Regulations and requirements are crucial, along with a strong understanding of cloud computing, AI, automation, and other emerging technologies.

Experience in implementing effective Information Governance arrangements and a strong understanding of academic technical provision and emerging advances would be advantageous. Additionally, familiarity with the higher education environment, nationally and internationally, and the major influences on institutional success is desirable.

What we can offer you 

Our university is not just a place of academic excellence, but also a community that embraces inclusivity and support. We value our staff and offer a rewarding package that goes beyond just salary, our generous annual leave and Christmas closure. At the University of Sunderland, we prioritise not only your professional growth but also your happiness and well-being.

For more information on both the role and the University, please take a look at our informative candidate pack.

Equality, diversity & inclusion 

We strongly believe that an inclusive university, where a diverse range of individuals feel valued and have equal opportunity to get into work and reach their potential, is good for our staff, students, university, and society.

Our work on equality, diversity and inclusivity has never been more important. We believe inclusivity is an essential value at the heart of what we do, and we want all our staff to be part of that journey with us. Our recent staff survey conducted in 2023 showed that 97% of our staff believed that we were committed to achieving an inclusive university.

How to apply

Please complete the online application and upload your CV before midnight on Sunday 19 May.

Interviews scheduled to take place at our City Campus on Monday 3 June.

To arrange an informal conversation with Ben Dale – Chief Financial Officer, please contact