Modern Workplace Applications Manager

We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. For 90 years we have shaped brighter futures through education, arts, culture, language, and creativity. Working with people in over 200 countries and territories, we are on the ground in more than 100 countries. We connect. We inspire. The Role The COTS and Business Apps Service Manager supports the COTS and Business Apps Lead in delivering the service lifecycle roadmap and Applications Strategy for British Council applications, working closely with service providers and business stakeholders. The role oversees day-to-day service lifecycle activities, acts as the link between suppliers and the business, and ensures applications operate securely and efficiently within the Microsoft ecosystem. It is also accountable for integrating third-party SaaS solutions into the centralised Azure/Cloud enterprise architecture, ensuring alignment with identity, security, governance, policy and data protection requirements. The role sits within the Digital and Technology Directorate, specifically the Operations division, which is responsible for secure, performant enterprise platforms, applications, connectivity and modern workplace services. Working through external suppliers and ITIL-based processes, the Service Manager will support the transition, delivery and continuous improvement of technology services while leveraging Microsoft Cloud, Entra ID, Intune and Microsoft 365 to provide secure, scalable and integrated enterprise solutions aligned with British Council business priorities. Main responsibilities The Service Manager will support the Principal for COTS and Business Applications in managing third-party suppliers, ensuring agreed service levels, policies, standards and continuous improvement objectives are achieved. The role will support the development and delivery of service lifecycle roadmaps, manage the COTS portfolio and licensing reconciliation, validate business and technical application requests, and act as a key stakeholder contact. It will also drive the onboarding and lifecycle of third-party SaaS applications, ensuring integration with Microsoft Entra ID, SSO, automated provisioning and Intune, while maintaining compliance with British Council policies, UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018 and ISO 27001 requirements. The role will provide consultancy, analysis and problem-solving support across applications and suppliers, including vendor risk and compliance assessments, AI vendor due diligence and readiness for AI-enabled capabilities such as Microsoft 365 Copilot. It will support high-priority incident resolution, assess business and procurement impacts of changes, ensure supplier contract and standards compliance, and work with D&T and business stakeholders to strengthen service reliability and governance. The role will also oversee Video Conferencing services and solutions. Role specific skills * IT Service Management / ITIL Process delivery * Supplier Management * Project management * Supplier governance and performance management * Understanding AI service-level expectations * Ability to identify opportunities for automation, productivity improvement, and cost optimization. * Strong understanding of Microsoft Entra ID as it relates to Microsoft Cloud services, Enterprise Applications, App Registrations, SAML/OIDC, and conditional access policies. * Knowledge of modern device management and application deployment mechanisms via Microsoft Intune. * Understanding of enterprise information protection, data residency requirements, and DLP strategies within cloud applications. Role specific knowledge and experience Minimum/essential * Experience of Managing Supplier Service Delivery * Experience of managing COTS and Business Applications services in an outsourced, international, complex environment * Supplier governance and performance management * Ability to identify opportunities for automation, productivity improvement, and cost optimization. * Experience conducting organizational compliance, risk assurance, and sub-processor reviews for 3rd-party SaaS vendors within strict public-sector or global frameworks. * Proven track record managing complex global software licensing renewals and large-scale user deployments across decentralized business units. Desirable * Budget management Language Requirements * The British Council systems and global processes operate in English. Written and verbal proficiency in English is required. Education Minimum / Essential * Degree qualified or equivalent experience. Desirable * An advanced degree such as a Master's in Business Administration or Information Technology is advantageous field such as business, administration, or service management Professional Qualification and Certification Minimum / Essential * Qualification or high level of demonstrable capability with relevant COTS and Business Applications. * Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals Desirable * ITIL V4 Expert * PRINCE 2 Practitioner * AgileSHIFT * Microsoft Identity and Access Administrator (SC-300) OR Information Protection and Compliance Administrator (SC-400) * Software Asset Management (SAM) or specific vendor management certifications. * Microsoft Certified: Azure Virtual Desktop Specialty * Understanding of Containerised Application Packaging, Cloud-Native Application Deployment , And Grounded Application Pattern (RAG) British Council | Pay Band 8 Location: Noida, India Department: Digital and Technology Contract: Indefinite term Apply by: Tuesday, October 06th 2026 (11:59 PM) Interview Date, TBD Please note that candidates must have the pre-existing, legal right to work in India at the time application. Mobility / relocation / visa sponsoring support will not be provided. British Council supports working in new ways such as hybrid working, subject to full approval by line management and conditional upon our ability to provide the appropriate level of service. This may not be appropriate for all roles but can be explored at interview. A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community as we believe that a diverse workforce gives added depth to our work. The British Council is a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme helps challenge attitudes, increase understanding of disability and ensure staff are drawn from the widest possible pool of talent. We guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum role requirements. We welcome discussions about specific requirements or adjustments to enable participation and engagement in our work and activities. Safeguarding Statement The British Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults who we work with. We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19, UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989. Appointment to positions where there is direct involvement with vulnerable groups will be dependent on thorough checks being completed in line with legal requirements and with the British Council’s Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children. If you experience any difficulties with submitting your application, please email askhr@britishcouncil.org