Diversity and Inclusion Specialist - #1796005

Diversity & Inclusion Specialist

Location: Manchester (Hybrid - 2x days a week in the office)

Salary: £43,650 - £51,692

12 month FTC

This isn't a 'tick-the-box' D&I role.
This is about making real, measurable, lasting change.

AQA has bold ambitions when it comes to diversity and inclusion. We've already got the board's backing, an organisation-wide strategy and a clear roadmap for the next few years. What we need now is someone who can help turn those ambitions into action.

This role reports to the D&I Lead and plays a central part in building a culture where inclusion isn't just talked about - it's embedded.

You'll design and deliver learning experiences that shift mindsets. You'll support behaviour change across the organisation. And you'll help turn theory into reality, across our people practices, leadership engagement, and network support.

If you've worked in a D&I learning or change-focused role before, especially within a large or complex organisation, and you're looking for a place where your work will have real strategic impact - we should talk.

What you'll be doing:

• Designing and delivering learning initiatives that help people understand D&I - and act on it.
• Advising on inclusive policies and people practices across AQA.
• Supporting our newly formed colleague networks and helping them grow into strong communities.
• Working with senior leaders and managers to drive behavioural change.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to accelerate the D&I strategy.
• Helping shape and track our progress with data and insight that drives accountability.

What you'll need to bring:

• Experience supporting D&I work in a similar environment.
• Strong learning and development capability, ideally D&I-focused.
• A practical understanding of how to embed behaviour change.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills - you can bring people with you.
• An eye for data, insights and trends that tell a clear story and shape decisions.
• A collaborative approach that's about people, not just processes.

What's in it for you?

• A flexible working environment, with a 35-hour week and real respect for work-life balance.
• 25 days' annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 30 days with service - plus a Christmas office closure on top.
• Access to a highly competitive enhanced contributory pension (you pay 7%, we pay 11.5%).
• A commitment to inclusion that goes beyond lip service - this role exists for a reason.

AQA is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where all colleagues have equal opportunities to thrive. This isn't just the right thing to do - it's essential to how we serve teachers and students across the country. We've set ambitious goals, and now we need someone like you to help us meet them.

How do I apply?

Read the full job description and upload your most recent CV by following the link provided. Please apply by Wednesday 16th July.

First stage interviews will be held by MS Teams w/c 21st July. Second stage interviews will be F2F at our Manchester office w/c 28th July.

AQA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and supported to thrive.

#PRO22