University of Cambridge
Deputy Departmental Administrator (Fixed Term) - Internal Applicants Only
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Based within the School of Biological Sciences
The Department of Biochemistry is a globally recognized hub for research and education, drawing talent from across the world. We are seeking a Deputy Departmental Administrator to support the Departmental Administrator and General Manager in the strategic and operational management of the Department, ensuring the effective delivery of professional services that underpin world-leading research, teaching, and academic activity.
The role provides leadership across key administrative functions including finance, human resources, research grant administration, governance, facilities, and operational planning, helping to ensure compliance with the University's policies and external regulatory requirements.
Working closely with academic and professional services colleagues, the postholder contributes to departmental planning, service development, and continuous improvement initiatives. The role has direct management responsibility for administrative staff and oversight of departmental operational budgets, projects, and resources, acting as a key point of contact for complex administrative matters and deputising for the Departmental Administrator and General Manager as required.
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Specific Duties And Responsibilities Include
Deputising and leadership
- Deputise for the Departmental Administrator and General Manager during periods of absence, representing the Department at internal and external meetings and ensuring continuity of operations.
Strategic planning and reporting
- Coordinate the preparation of departmental operational plans, annual reports, performance metrics and management information to support strategic decision-making.
Stakeholder and relationship management
- Develop effective working relationships with central University services, external partners, funding bodies and other departments to facilitate the achievement of departmental objectives.
Change management
- Lead and coordinate departmental change initiatives, including process reviews, systems implementation and service improvement projects.
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The post is offered to internal candidates only on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 9 months in the first instance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
For informal enquiries, please contact Anna O'Mahony via ao419@cam.ac.uk
For queries regarding the application process, please contact the Biochemistry HR Team via: personnel@bioc.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference PH50187 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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