Shape the future: join us as an Interim Product Strategy Lead at NFER

Are you an experienced product strategist with a passion for developing innovative solutions in education? We're seeking an Interim Product Strategy Lead to provide focused leadership of NFER's response to the Curriculum and Assessment Review and implementation of the new curriculum in schools. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of our assessment products, working across the organisation to identify opportunities, develop recommendations and drive strategic decision-making

Salary: Full-time equivalent salary £73,000 to £82,000 per annum pro rata.
Annual Leave: Enjoy 42 days off each year: 30 days' annual leave, 4 paid closure days and 8 bank holidays.
Pension Contributions: 10% employer contributions
Family Support: Enhanced maternity/parental leave and paid compassionate leave
Flexible Working: Hybrid setup with 1- 2 day a month in our office at The Mere, Upton, with easy access to Windsor, Maidenhead, Reading, the Elizabeth Line and the M4. Full-time, 35 hours per week

JOB DESCIPTION
As the Interim Product Strategy Lead, you will play a key role in leading NFER's response to the Curriculum and Assessment Review and the implementation of the new curriculum in schools. Working closely with the Director of Communications and colleagues across the organisation, you will drive the strategic response to curriculum change, lead the project to identify the way forward and make recommendations for NFER's future product offer. You will help ensure our assessment portfolio continues to meet the needs of schools while supporting the Foundation's mission.

Key responsibilities:
• Lead the project and oversee delivery across workstreams.
• Manage project plans, risks and reporting to the Senior Management Team.
• Develop and evaluate product options and recommendations.
• Prepare business cases for future product development opportunities.
• Work collaboratively across NFER to support strategic decision-making.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential skills and experience:
• Strong knowledge of product strategy and product development, ideally gained in the education and schools’ sector.
• Understanding of project management.
• Experience of scoping new product opportunities and preparing business cases for their development.
• Track record of working with product developments of both physical and digital products and services.
• Experience of leading diverse teams and securing input from across an organisation.
• Ability to translate customer and market drivers into clear product features and benefits.
• Highly collaborative, able to work across an organisation and bring colleagues together around a shared goal.
• Able to work at pace, applying sound judgement and remaining focused on delivery.
Other roles you may have experience of include: Product Strategy Manager, Product Development Manager or Product Lead.

WHY NFER?
At NFER, we are recognised globally for providing trusted research, resources and insights that drive meaningful change. By joining us, you’ll contribute to a mission that prioritises impact over profit, working in an environment where collaboration, flexibility, and inclusion are valued.
What we offer:
• A supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
• Opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance from day 1.
• The chance to make a real difference in the education sector.

APPLICATION PROCESS
We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and encourage you to apply early. Shortlisting will commence from 20 November 2026.
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. If you require any adjustments, alternative document formats or accommodations at any stage, please do not hesitate to contact us at HR@nfer.ac.uk.
If you’re ready to bring your skills and passion to a role that makes a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and start your journey with NFER.