Head of Academic Partnerships

At BIMM University, we are more than just an educational institution; we are a vibrant community dedicated to nurturing creativity and empowering students to reach their full potential. With campuses across the UK, Ireland, and Germany, we offer a diverse range of courses in modern music, performing arts, filmmaking and creative technology. Our commitment to excellence in creative arts education sets us apart, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to succeed in their chosen fields.

As Head of Academic Partnerships, you will lead the university's educational partnerships. This role is crucial in ensuring quality assurance and regulatory compliance (QARC) across our partner institutions, including higher education providers, accreditation bodies, and awarding organisations. As the operational expert in this area, you will collaborate with faculties, partner institutions, and external bodies to maintain academic standards, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and enhance the student experience at our partner institutions. You will also play a key role in developing and managing new and existing partnerships to align with BIMM University’s strategic objectives.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead and Develop: Manage and develop the Partnership Office and its staff, fostering a culture of excellence in academic partnerships.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance: Oversee governance requirements to maintain compliance with relevant regulatory bodies and ensure the consistent implementation of BIMM University’s QARC policies at partner institutions.
• Accreditation Oversight: Ensure alignment with accreditation requirements for externally approved provisions, such as Trinity College Examination Board.
• Student Experience: Ensure that academic standards are upheld and that students at partner institutions receive a high-quality educational experience.
• Regulatory Reporting: Manage regulatory return requirements for partner institutions, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the key contact for educational partners, both in the UK and internationally, fostering strong, collaborative relationships.
• Policy Implementation: Oversee and ensure the consistent application of policies and procedures underpinning regulatory and legislative requirements. Escalate any concerns to the Director of Academic Services.
• Strategic Partnership Development: Support the development of new academic partnerships, ensuring alignment with the university’s strategic goals and the processes outlined in the Partnership Handbook.
• Data and Reporting: Ensure effective data collection, monitoring, and reporting on critical partnership activities and outcomes.
• Committee and Governance Representation: Attend and contribute to committees and formal meetings requiring input from the Partnerships Office.
• Deputy Responsibilities: Step in for the Director of Academic Services as required.

What You’ll Bring:

• A degree-level qualification (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• Proven line management experience leading diverse teams.
• Strong experience in managing QARC systems, maintaining academic standards, and enhancing the student experience.
• Working knowledge of UK and transnational education frameworks, including professional, regulatory, and statutory bodies.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a strong commitment to maintaining high standards.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to negotiate, persuade, and build strong relationships.
• A collaborative and solutions-focused approach to problem-solving.
• Proven ability to analyse and present data to inform decision-making.
• Experience of governance requirements in partnership arrangements, student record systems, and working in international contexts.

Why BIMM University: We are a values-led organisation, meaning our core values underpin all that we do: Believe in Everyone. Challenge the Norm. Grow Together. Do the Right Thing. Own It.

In addition to joining a committed and dedicated team, you will have access to:

• 25 days holiday per year (FTE)
• SMART pension
• A comprehensive benefits package

We continually strive to create a culture of inclusivity so that we truly represent our diverse communities. We particularly welcome applications from people of colour who are underrepresented in our organisation. We are committed to promoting the safety and welfare of our students; therefore, all successful applicants are required to complete a basic DBS disclosure. Depending on the role, you may be required to complete an enhanced check/enhanced check with barred list if required by statute and internal policy.

How To Apply: Interested in this opportunity? Click apply and you will be redirected to our careers website to complete your application.