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- Tasks: Support students and staff with top-notch service and maintain accurate records.
- Company: Join SOAS University of London, a leader in global higher education focused on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
- Benefits: Enjoy 44 days of holiday, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team enhancing student experiences in a dynamic academic environment.
- Qualifications: Proactive, detail-oriented with excellent customer service skills; previous experience in higher education is a plus.
- Other info: Hybrid work model after initial training; apply by 29th June 2025.
The predicted salary is between 29300 - 35000 £ per year.
Department: Student and Academic Services
Contract Type: Permanent
Grade: 6
Salary: £35,318.57 - £41,687.57 per annum (inc. London Allowance)
Location: Bloomsbury, London
Hours: 35 per week
SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity.
About the Role
As a Student and Academic Support Officer (SASO), you'll be the go-to person for both students and staff, providing full and comprehensive support across various programmes in one or more of our Colleges. You'll ensure that all records are meticulously maintained and deliver top-notch customer service that aligns with our School's procedures and regulations.
About the Department
Academic Services is part of the vibrant Directorate of Student and Academic Services at SOAS. We're dedicated to delivering top-tier administrative support to both staff and students, ensuring a smooth and enriching academic journey for all. Within the Directorate, you'll find a variety of specialised teams that collaborate and work together to contribute to the holistic success of our students – these include: Access, Participation and Student Success, Careers, Registry, Student Experience, Engagement and Retention, Student Advice and Wellbeing.
About you
What you’ll be doing:
- Enhance the Student Experience: By delivering high-quality information, support, and customer service, you'll play a key role in making sure our students have the best possible experience.
- Maintain Excellence: You'll uphold our excellent service delivery standards, contributing to a supportive and efficient academic environment via face to face communication, liaising with colleagues in person and via live Microsoft Teams.
- Data Management: You’ll be using systems to accurately maintain data and identify creative improvements. Previous experience in a Higher Education setting is desirable, but not essential. What matters more is that you are a proactive detail-oriented administrator with excellent customer service skills.
- Managing Change: You’ll be working in a fast-paced environment that constantly adapts itself to improve the academic and student experience.
You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website.
What We Offer:
- Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 6 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
- Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
- Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future.
- Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
- Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
- Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
- Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.
How to Apply: Please complete the online application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement. Closing date: 29th June 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Interviews to be held (in person) w/c 14th July 2025.
*We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than stated should we receive a high number of applications.
Further information: Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. We are not able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK. New appointments will typically be made at the lowest point of the salary scale.
Work Pattern: 5 days on-campus for training/orientation and key activity. Hybrid to follow in agreement with line-manager.
If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS.
For information on how and why SOAS processes personal data about its job applicants, please read our Job Applicant Notice.
Student and Academic Support Officer employer: SOAS University of London
Contact Detail:
SOAS University of London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student and Academic Support Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with SOAS University of London's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to student responsiveness and research intensity will help you align your approach during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Student and Academic Support Officers if possible. They can provide insights into the role and share tips on how to excel in the position, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your customer service experience in detail. Since the role emphasises high-quality support, think of specific examples where you've successfully enhanced a customer or student experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on trends in higher education, especially those affecting student services. Being knowledgeable about current challenges and innovations can set you apart as a proactive candidate who is ready to contribute.
We think you need these skills to ace Student and Academic Support Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of a Student and Academic Support Officer. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these requirements.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is crucial. Clearly articulate your motivation for applying, relevant experiences, and how you can enhance the student experience at SOAS. Use specific examples to demonstrate your customer service skills and attention to detail.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you lack direct experience in higher education, emphasise transferable skills from previous roles. Focus on your administrative capabilities, data management skills, and any experience in fast-paced environments.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and supporting statement. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-structured and easy to read. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at SOAS University of London
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Student and Academic Support Officer. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the role, particularly in enhancing the student experience and maintaining data management.
✨Showcase Customer Service Skills
Since this role involves providing top-notch customer service, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully assisted students or colleagues. Highlight your proactive approach and detail-oriented nature during the interview.
✨Prepare for Change Management Questions
The job requires adaptability in a fast-paced environment. Be ready to discuss how you've managed change in previous roles, including any challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a dynamic setting.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
During the interview, don't hesitate to ask questions about the department and its initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the work environment aligns with your values and career goals.
