Head of Resources China

We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. For over 90 years we have shaped brighter futures through education, arts, culture, language, and creativity.

We work with people in over 150 countries and reach over 700 million people.

We connect. We inspire.

Pay Band: 8
Contract Duration: 2 years
Location: Beijing, China
Right to work: As we cannot sponsor work passes, applicants must already have the right to live and work in the country where this role is based, without requiring work permit or visa sponsorship.
Closing Date: Sunday, 8 November 2026 - 23:59 China time (GMT+08)

Role Purpose & Context 
We are seeking a Head of Resources to lead the development and delivery of an efficient, flexible and cost-effective platform supporting our business, programmes and operations across multiple locations in China.
The role will provide strategic leadership to Resources and Office IT teams across four offices. Working closely with programme and business leaders, the postholder will align team structures and priorities with organisational objectives, promote a service-focused culture, and drive performance, innovation and continuous improvement.
The role will oversee premises, facilities, office IT, office and people services, ensuring safe, inclusive and inspiring environments for staff, customers and visitors. Responsibilities include asset and space management, facilities strategy, service delivery, supplier and contractor oversight, and compliance with British Council policies and local regulations.
The Head of Resources will also lead business continuity and crisis preparedness in coordination with the British Embassy and Consulates General, while identifying and managing operational and premises-related risks.
In addition, the role will plan and manage budgets covering premises, running costs, office IT and UK-appointed staff, oversee procurement and contracting, and deliver measurable efficiencies and cost savings across the operation.

Language Requirements
The British Council systems and global processes operate in English. 
Written and verbal proficiency in English is required.
Written and verbal proficiency in Mandarin is also required.

Education 
Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience.

Role specific experience and skills
Minimum/essential
Experience of leading on operations/resources management in a large international organisation 
Experience of managing a large team
Experience of working in a complex regulatory environment. 
Desirable
Experience leading on organisational change programmes to deliver more efficient and cost-effective processes.

Benefits: 
•  22 days of Annual Leave 
•  13th Month Salary 
•  Non-consolidated bonus 
•  Comprehensive health and insurance package – includes accidental insurance, life insurance, and supplementary medical coverage 
•  Social insurance & housing fund - Coverage under national social insurance and housing fund 
•  Professional development - Ongoing learning and career growth opportunities to support your development.

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 we 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 and 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 [email protected]