Associate Director, Strategy

Ambition Institute is energized about the strategic opportunities ahead. For almost 15 years, we and our predecessor charities have been delivering high-quality professional development programs to educators serving disadvantaged communities. We are now working with more teachers and school leaders than ever before, annually delivering programmes to over 50,000 educators nationwide.

About the role

As Associate Director of Strategy, you will be responsible for leading and implementing complex strategic projects across the organization, playing a vital role in organizational decision-making. Strategy projects will include evaluating new external delivery opportunities, influencing sector policy and practice projects, and internal strategy development and implementation. You will contribute to briefing papers for senior leaders and develop papers for our Executive Committee.

Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Execution:

• Develop and execute strategic plans to enhance the organization's market position and overall effectiveness.
• Lead strategic projects, ensuring successful implementation and measurable impact.
• Identify new opportunities for growth, partnerships, and innovation.

Market & Competitive Analysis:

• Conduct in-depth market research to understand industry trends, competitor strategies, and customer insights.
• Provide data-driven recommendations to senior leadership based on analysis and forecasting.

Stakeholder Engagement & Leadership:

• Collaborate with executives, department heads, and cross-functional teams to align strategies with business objectives.
• Serve as a thought leader, presenting strategic insights and recommendations to senior management.
• Build relationships with external stakeholders, including industry partners, government bodies, and investors.

Operational Efficiency & Performance Monitoring:

• Establish performance metrics and KPIs to measure the success of strategic initiatives.
• Identify areas for process improvement and operational efficiency.
• Provide regular reporting and insights to senior leadership on progress and impact.

Innovation & Business Development:

• Identify and evaluate new business opportunities, partnerships, and market expansion strategies.
• Drive innovation by exploring new technologies, business models, and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Business, Economics, Strategy, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (typically 7-10+ years) in strategy development, consulting, and corporate strategy roles.
• Strong analytical skills with expertise in market research, data analysis, and financial modeling.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and make data-driven decisions.
• Experience in managing high-impact projects and cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of industry-specific trends, regulations, and challenges (depending on the sector).

Conditions of Employment

• You must have the right to work in the UK.

Working Locations

• Hybrid model, working in the Birmingham office and remotely.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. The interview will be held on 31st March and 1st April 2025.
• We are committed to the safeguarding of children and the most vulnerable in our society. Equality and diversity matter to us. If you think you'd be suited to one of our roles, we'd love to hear from you regardless of age, disability status, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexuality.