At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead initiatives to boost student participation and success across the university.
- Company: Join Keele University, known for its innovative education and vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, pension schemes, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student outcomes while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working practices and a commitment to diversity make this role even more appealing.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a fixed term opportunity to undertake the role of Head of Student Participation and Success. We are looking for an ambitious individual to ensure the effective delivery and monitoring of the University’s Access and Participation Plan 2025-29, including expenditure, reporting and evaluation.
The role sits within the Directorate of Student Services and Success and the post holder will work across the University to drive, shape and implement the University’s strategy to facilitating student success, impacting the continuation and attainment elements of the APP. They will also engage in development of continuous improvement and innovative approaches to pro-actively improve outcomes for students across all stages of the student lifecycle.
The Directorate of Student Services and Success consists of a range of specialist services that ensures students are safe, supported, and able to thrive within the academic environment.
The successful role holder will have experience of project management and delivery of complex projects, as well as the ability to positively engage all members of staff, encouraging teamwork and continuous improvement. They will also have experience of working across teams, departments and external agencies, and have a proven ability to communicate and influence at all levels.
The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available, including:
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Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
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Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave
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Excellent staff pension scheme
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Access to continued personal, professional and career development
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On site ‘outstanding’ nursery
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Discounted health & fitness facilities on site
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Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)
Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above.
The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible.
The University
Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 12,500 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at
Keele University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN charter, and values equality and diversity across our workforce. We strive to ensure that our workforce is representative of broader society, and therefore, we would actively welcome applications from all for this role.
Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.
To apply online for this vacancy and for full post details and copies of job descriptions, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.
Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the ‘View current vacancies’ link.
For informal enquiries may be addressed to Katie Laverty – Katie Laverty – . Applications to this address will not be accepted.
Closing Date: 24 February 2025
£47,874 to £56,921. Grade 8
Jobs.ac.uk
Head of Student Participation and Success employer: Keele University
Contact Detail:
Keele University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Student Participation and Success
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the University's Access and Participation Plan (APP) for 2025-29. Understanding its goals and strategies will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their objectives during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your project management skills by preparing examples of complex projects you've successfully delivered. Be ready to discuss how you engaged various stakeholders and drove teamwork to achieve positive outcomes.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your ability to communicate and influence at all levels by preparing anecdotes that showcase your experience in cross-departmental collaboration. This will be crucial in showing how you can work effectively within the Directorate of Student Services and Success.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Keele University's commitment to equality and diversity, particularly regarding the Athena SWAN charter. Being able to discuss how you can contribute to these values will set you apart as a candidate who aligns with the University's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Student Participation and Success
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Student Participation and Success. Understand the key responsibilities, required skills, and the impact this role has on student success.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your project management experience and any previous roles where you successfully delivered complex projects. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your ability to engage with staff and improve outcomes.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires strong communication and influencing skills, make sure to include examples in your application that illustrate how you've effectively communicated across teams and departments.
Align with University Values: Reflect on Keele University's commitment to equality and diversity in your application. Mention any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that align with these values, particularly those that support underrepresented groups.
How to prepare for a job interview at Keele University
✨Understand the Access and Participation Plan
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the University's Access and Participation Plan for 2025-29. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with its goals and how you can contribute to its effective delivery and monitoring.
✨Showcase Project Management Skills
Highlight your experience in managing complex projects. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your ability to deliver results, engage teams, and drive continuous improvement within a collaborative environment.
✨Emphasize Communication and Influence
Since the role requires engaging with various stakeholders, be ready to discuss your communication strategies. Share instances where you've successfully influenced decisions or fostered teamwork across departments.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Given the University's commitment to equality and diversity, express your understanding of these principles. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your dedication to creating an inclusive environment for all students.