At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead student representation and drive impactful change in higher education.
- Company: Oxford Brookes Students’ Union, a vibrant charity for students.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Champion student voices and influence decisions that shape their education.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and understanding of student life trends.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to amplifying student voices.
The predicted salary is between 46323 - 51600 ÂŁ per year.
Salary: ÂŁ46,323
Location: Oxford, Headington - we ask staff to spend at least 60% of their time on-site
Contract: Full time. Fixed-term contract (24 months)
This role is offered on a fixed-term basis for 24 months. Subject to funding, there may be the potential for the role to become permanent in the future.
Are you ready to champion student voice and drive meaningful change across higher education? Oxford Brookes Students’ Union is seeking a strategic, values-led Head of Academic Representation to lead their academic voice, representation and influence work, ensuring students are at the heart of decision‑making and institutional change at Oxford Brookes University.
About Oxford Brookes SU
Oxford Brookes Students’ Union is an independent education charity led by, and for, students. The Students’ Union is central to the University experience and works to support all aspects of student life for the 26,000 plus students studying at Oxford Brookes University. Located in a bustling city, the Students’ Union is an ambitious and diverse organisation, committed to supporting every student at Oxford Brookes University in achieving personal success. Oxford Brookes Students’ Union sits at the heart of a thriving student community, with activities and initiatives inspired by students themselves. The Students’ Union is committed to promoting the interests and welfare of its members, representing their needs, and offering opportunities for personal development through a wide range of social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities. At the heart of everything the Union does, is a commitment to amplifying student voice and ensuring students can meaningfully influence the decisions that affect their education.
About the Role
Oxford Brookes Students’ Union is excited to be recruiting a Head of Academic Representation, a senior leader who will drive forward education, policy and influence work. Operating at senior manager level and as a member of the Union’s Senior Leadership Team, this role will lead the student representation system, oversee academic policy and influence activity, and support elected officers to deliver high‑impact, evidence‑led campaigns. The role will work closely with academic and professional services colleagues across the University, developing trusted partnerships at faculty and school level, embedding student voice into academic processes, and positioning the Union as an expert in student experience and academic representation.
The ideal candidate will be both strategic and delivery‑focused, confident in leading teams, influencing senior stakeholders and using insight and data to drive change. The successful candidate will not necessarily come from the Higher Education sector but will be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of the trends, challenges and opportunities that shape student life and the Students’ Union sector. They will bring a sound understanding of charity governance and democratic decision‑making, alongside the strategic and operational capability required to lead student representation, policy development and institutional influence within a democratic, student‑led organisation.
Oxford Brookes Students’ Union offers an inclusive and engaging working environment and is passionate about developing its people. The organisation is committed to ensuring its workforce reflects the diversity of the community it serves, respecting individual identity and celebrating differences. Applications are encouraged from all candidates regardless of their background. It’s a genuinely exciting time for Oxford Brookes Students’ Union and we look forward to receiving your application.
Key Dates
- Closing Date: Monday 16th March, 9am
- Interviews (In‑person): Thursday 26th March
How to Apply
Please click 'Apply' to be redirected to our website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and apply. For an informal conversation about the role and the application process, please contact our recruitment partners at Atkinson HR Consulting. Their contact details can be found on the candidate pack.
Head of Academic Representation- Oxford Brookes Students\' Union employer: Acevo
Contact Detail:
Acevo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Academic Representation- Oxford Brookes Students\' Union
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Oxford Brookes Students' Union on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the culture and expectations, plus it shows your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in student representation and academic policies. We want to see that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the challenges and opportunities in higher education.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've successfully led teams or influenced change. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to drive initiatives and make a real impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Academic Representation- Oxford Brookes Students\' Union
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for championing student voice shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in higher education and how you can bring that passion to Oxford Brookes Students' Union.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Academic Representation role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with our mission to support students and drive meaningful change.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your ideas are easy to follow. Use bullet points where necessary to break down your achievements and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can find all the details you need in the Candidate Information Pack to help you put your best foot forward.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acevo
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of Head of Academic Representation inside and out. Familiarise yourself with Oxford Brookes Students’ Union's mission, values, and current initiatives. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your leadership abilities, especially in influencing change and working with diverse teams. Think about times when you've successfully led campaigns or initiatives that had a positive impact on student life.
✨Engage with Student Voice
Be ready to discuss how you would champion student voice within the university. Consider specific strategies you could implement to ensure students are at the heart of decision-making processes and how you would build trusted partnerships across faculties.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. You might want to inquire about the current challenges facing the Students’ Union or how they measure the success of their academic representation efforts.