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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate commercial services to enhance student life at Reading University.
- Company: Reading Students' Union, a vibrant charity dedicated to student welfare and development.
- Benefits: Inclusive work culture, personal development opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of student experiences while working in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing with strong financial management skills.
- Other info: Diversity is celebrated; applications from all backgrounds are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are delighted to be supporting our client, Reading Students' Union, in their search for a new Director of Commercial Services.
About the Organisation
The Students’ Union is an independent education charity led by, and for, students. They are central to the University experience and work to support all aspects of student life for the 19,000 plus students studying at the University of Reading. They are committed to promoting the interests and welfare of students, 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 generating income for the charity and 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 their offer whilst 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. You will bring a sound understanding of financial management, alongside the strategic and operational capability required to lead complex commercial services within a 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. It’s a genuinely exciting time for Reading Students’ Union.
Director of Commercial Services in Reading employer: Atkinson HR
Contact Detail:
Atkinson HR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Commercial Services in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of Reading Students' Union on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the culture and what they’re really looking for in a Director of Commercial Services.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into student life trends. Show us you understand what makes the student experience tick, and how your skills can enhance that. Bring fresh ideas to the table!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just talk about your past experiences; relate them directly to the role. We want to see how your background in licensed trade, catering, or events can be a game-changer for the Students’ Union.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Commercial Services in Reading
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 welfare and community engagement.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing. We want to see how you've made an impact in previous roles, especially in ways that align with the needs of a student-led organisation.
Be Strategic and Hands-On: This role is about reimagining services, so highlight your strategic thinking alongside your operational skills. Share examples of how you've successfully balanced both aspects in your past roles to drive results.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on being part of our vibrant community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Atkinson HR
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research Reading Students' Union and their mission. Understand their commitment to student life and how their commercial services enhance that experience. This will help you tailor your responses to show how your skills align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your background in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led similar initiatives in the past. Highlight any innovative strategies you've implemented that could be relevant to diversifying their commercial services.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since financial management is key for this role, come prepared to discuss your experience with budgeting and financial planning. Share examples of how you've managed resources effectively to drive profitability while still enhancing customer experience.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
Reading Students' Union values diversity and inclusivity, so be sure to express your commitment to these principles. Discuss how you've fostered inclusive environments in previous roles and how you plan to ensure that their venues and services are welcoming to all students.