Associate Director of Digital Solutions and Services

Associate Director of Digital Solutions & Services (DS&S)

University of Derby

We are delighted to be supporting the University of Derby in recruiting a key member of the technology senior leadership team. The role is an insightful, strategic leader to join as Associate Director of Digital Solutions & Services. With the full cloud migration complete and a suite of robust SaaS solutions in place, this is an exciting opportunity to lead the University’s next phase of digital evolution.

Reporting to the Chief Digital Officer, you will oversee the architecture, applications, and data services, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future technology landscape. Including supporting continuous development of teams that manage exciting new implementations such as MuleSoft integration & the data management/ELT platform, including ongoing collaboration with top industry players; CISCO, Azure, and Microsoft.

What Sets Derby Apart:

• Full cloud migration completed - building on an advanced digital infrastructure.
• All SaaS products - fully supported, supplier-backed solutions.
• Cultural strength - highly regarded department fully backed by the COO.
• Momentum in place –Technology department shaped for future deliveries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive strategic initiatives, such as fully utilizing our new MuleSoft platform and expanding the data services team.
• Lead applications, architecture, and data management across the University, ensuring technology aligns with business objectives.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders, including academic staff and senior leadership, and ensure technology’s full integration in strategic decision-making.
• Mentor and develop a strong management team to further elevate department performance.

What We’re Looking For:

• Someone who’s comfortable challenging senior leaders when needed, but with the wisdom and emotional intelligence to know when to compromise.
• A strategic technology leader who focuses on genuine impact.
• Expertise in enterprise level cloud solutions (Azure)
• Experience building strong management teams and a proven ability to align technology with business goals.
• Thoughtful leadership, confident to promote a vision for IT to a broad audience.

Why Join Us?

• Work in a department respected across the University, with strong leadership support.
• Shape the future of digital solutions, with major projects already funded and in progress.
• Competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement, and access to a contributory pension scheme.

This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the University’s future digital landscape, while also enjoying a supportive, forward-looking work environment. If you’re ready to lead with both vision and practical wisdom, we’d love to hear from you.