Project Director

Project Director

The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) is one of the world’s leading educational research and development organisations. Originally established in Australia as an independent, not-for-profit, the organisation now has offices in India, Indonesia, UAE and the UK.  

ACER UK provides assessment services to schools, works with the Standards and Testing Agency (STA) to provide content for key stage tests, and delivers the Scottish National Standardised Assessments in partnership with SCHOLAR and Twig. Our staff members are highly experienced in educational assessment and reporting, survey design and psychometric analysis; the management and administration of large-scale research projects; and the organisation of seminars, conferences and professional development programmes.  

Due to the expansion of our team in the ACER UK office, a new opportunity exists for an experienced Project Director to lead and oversee the project management and delivery of large and complex projects for ACER’s UK office.   The successful incumbent will be expected to work at a strategic level overseeing the operational requirements of the project(s) with a specific focus on quality assurance, stakeholder engagement and contract management. 

The position will have overall responsibility for contracts and related legal matters pertaining to the project(s); to establish systems to manage all project tasks; to develop a communications plan for internal and external stakeholders and partners; to supervise ACER London staff assigned to projects; and to have responsibility for budget and finances of designated projects. In addition, working closely with the CEO, the Project Director will play a key leadership role in the execution of a strategic agenda, including a significant contribution to high level business planning and development.  

Our ideal candidate will have post-graduate qualifications in education, business management or related field, formal training in project management with demonstrated experience and success managing complex and/or large projects, especially large-scale educational assessment projects. Experience managing high profile government IT projects, with an ability to communicate and negotiate effectively at all levels, are also highly desirable. The successful candidate will require strong people management experience including the ability to lead a team, build harmony, develop staff, manage conflict, and engage others in major initiatives. Strong business acumen and business development skills, including experience in identifying potential tenders and proposal bids are also essential.  

The appointment is full-time fixed term for 3 years. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus 17% ACER contribution to pension.  ACER UK office is based in West Hampstead, London. 

Please note, to be eligible for this position applicants need to have the right to work in the UK.  

ACER is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We recognise the value of equity and diversity in the workplace and the significant advantages that a supportive and inclusive culture plays in helping our employees reach their full potential.  

For further details and to apply, please visit our website: https://www.acer.org/about-us/careers/current-opportunities  

Applications close 3pm Sunday 14 October 2018 (BST) / midnight (AEST)