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- Tasks: Lead and innovate commercial services to enhance student experiences at Reading University.
- Company: Reading Students' Union, a vibrant charity dedicated to supporting students.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, enhanced leave, onsite nursery, and winter shutdown.
- Why this job: Shape exceptional student experiences and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing with strategic leadership skills.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and personal development.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 ÂŁ per year.
Salary: ÂŁ60,727
Location: University of Reading Students’ Union
Contract: Full Time – 37.5 hours per week (worked flexibly)
Are you ready to shape exceptional student experiences through vibrant and innovative commercial services? Reading Students’ Union is seeking a progressive and values-driven Director of Commercial Services to provide strategic and hands-on leadership across all commercial services, helping to deliver outstanding spaces, services and experiences for the student community.
About Reading SU
Reading 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 19,000 plus students studying at the University of Reading. Located in one of Britain’s top green spaces, the Students’ Union is an ambitious and diverse organisation, committed to supporting every student at Reading University in achieving personal success.
Reading SU 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. This commitment to student experience also underpins the Union’s commercial activity. Reading Students’ Union’s venues, services and events are designed to be inclusive, welcoming and vibrant spaces where students can connect, feel a sense of belonging and create lasting memories. Guided by student insight, the commercial services play an important role in supporting the Union’s mission while enhancing student life across campus.
About the Role
Reading SU are thrilled to be searching for a Director of Commercial Services, a dynamic leader experienced in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing. This role is not just about maintaining the status quo but about reimagining and diversifying the commercial services in line with student community needs. The ideal candidate will be both strategic and hands-on, with an ability to develop Reading SU’s commercial services while also being involved in delivery of the operations.
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 financial management, alongside the strategic and operational capability required to lead complex commercial services within a democratic, student-led organisation.
Reading 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 background, and Reading Students’ Union particularly welcomes applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and from candidates with disabilities.
The SU offers a range of sector-leading benefits including enhanced leave, onsite nursery, occupational sick pay, access to campus facilities and winter shutdown over the Christmas period - a rare opportunity within the hospitality and commercial sector. It’s a genuinely exciting time for Reading Students’ Union and we look forward to receiving your application.
Key Dates
- Closing Date: Thursday 9th April, 12pm
- First Stage Interviews (Remote): 20th April
- Final Interviews (In-person): 27th April
- Optional Q/A session with the CEO and Interim Commercial Director: 26th March (time tbc) Email to register (see below)
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, or to register to the optional Q/A session, please contact our recruitment partners at Atkinson HR Consulting. Their details can be found in the candidate pack.
Director of Commercial Services at Reading Students\' Union employer: Atkinson HR Consulting
Contact Detail:
Atkinson HR Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Commercial Services at Reading Students\' Union
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Reading Students' Union on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the values and mission of Reading SU. Show us how your experience aligns with their commitment to enhancing student life. Tailor your examples to highlight your strategic and hands-on leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for the interview; engage with Reading SU’s social media. Comment on their posts or share relevant content. This shows your genuine interest in their work and helps you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the organisation right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Commercial Services at Reading Students\' Union
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Reading Students' Union is all about enhancing student life, so make sure your application reflects a genuine passion for student experiences and community engagement.
Be Authentic: We want to see the real you! Don’t just list your qualifications; share your journey and what drives you. Highlight your unique experiences in commercial services and how they align with our mission at Reading SU.
Tailor Your Application: Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically to the Director of Commercial Services role. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how your skills and experiences meet the needs of our vibrant student community.
Follow the Application Process: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy, and you’ll find all the necessary information there. Plus, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out for an informal chat – we’re here to help!
How to prepare for a job interview at Atkinson HR Consulting
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to understand the culture and values of Reading Students' Union. Familiarise yourself with their mission to enhance student life and how your experience in commercial services can align with their goals. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a positive impact.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a Director of Commercial Services, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led commercial initiatives in the past, focusing on innovation and adaptability. Be ready to discuss how you would reimagine their services to meet the evolving needs of students.
✨Engage with Student Insights
Reading SU values student input, so be prepared to discuss how you would incorporate student feedback into your decision-making process. Share any experiences where you've used insights from your audience to drive successful outcomes, showing that you can create inclusive and vibrant spaces for students.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the future direction of Reading Students' Union. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you. Ask about their current challenges and how they envision the new Director contributing to their success.