Digital Accessibility Manager

You will provide strategic, managerial and technical leadership in digital accessibility to all areas of the University of Birmingham. Leading on the implementation of the University’s Digital Accessibility Policy, you will ensure compliance with the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) (No. 2) Accessibility Regulations 2018 (the “PSBAR") and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (the "WCAG").

You will guide and help the University executive and administration to focus on the regulatory requirements for accessibility and to understand the impact of non-compliance. Interacting effectively at very senior levels within the University.

Other responsibilities include:

* Keeping current with emerging developments within the digital accessibility industry and legislation requirements
* Strategic oversight of accessibility testing
* Monitoring the levels of digital accessibility throughout the University and implement procedures and/or changes for improvement where needed
* Monitoring satisfaction levels of students and staff with impairments and disabilities to understand where accessibility improvements are needed
* Advocates for the quality and effectiveness of accessibility to disabled people of digital solutions at the University

Main Duties

* Working with the University community to identify and shape the strategic direction, operational plans, and key deliverables to improve Digital Accessibility. This will require you to use your expert judgement to make key decisions or to predict future trends and technologies which may impact the University.
* Builds long-term, strategic relationships with senior stakeholders. Acts as a single point of contact concerning matters of accessibility and PSBAR compliance and directs to subject matter experts. Negotiates at senior level on accessibility technical and commercial issues.
* Takes responsibility for the definition, approach, facilitation and satisfactory completion of accessibility projects when required. Motivating and managing large and diverse project teams, acting as the expert authority for the team to refer to.
* Evaluates accessibility factors and risks (political, legislative, technological, economic, social) that impact on operational processes and strategic direction. Monitors legal activity over accessibility in the UK and warns of any perceived rise in the potential threat of regulatory and court action due to non-compliance with legal requirements.
* Provides Digital Accessibility consultancy and advice to project teams and service owners to support them in delivering and improving their services to comply with legislation and best meet user needs.
* Coaches and develops others in growing their Digital Accessibility skills and understanding. Promoting knowledge and sharing of best practice.
* Measures and monitors the levels of digital accessibility throughout the University digital ecosystem.
* Chairs Digital Accessibility Steering Group meetings, providing project expertise, influencing and facilitating different opinions to reach consensus.
* Provides measurement and advice on suppliers meeting their contractual accessibility obligations. Informs negotiations with suppliers on improvements expected.
* Develops an in-depth understanding of the different areas of the University, including teaching, research and administrative areas to understand how accessibility applies in each. Works collaboratively to identify improvement opportunities and managing through influence to drive change.
* Develops and implements a culture (including policies and procedures) that promotes Equality and values diversity and inclusion.
* Any other duties commensurate with the grade.