At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business development to grow income and enhance employer partnerships.
- Company: Ayrshire College, shaping the future of learning and work.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, strategic leadership role, and impactful work.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and empower people for a changing world.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and experience in business development.
The predicted salary is between 77022 - 82383 £ per year.
35 hours per week
Permanent
£77,022 - £82,383 per annum
We are shaping the future of learning and work across our region and building the skills our economy needs to thrive. This new role sits at the heart of that ambition.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Business Development will be responsible for growing and diversifying income streams through expanding commercial portfolios, enhancing employer engagement, innovation, and partnership opportunities. The role oversees a high-impact portfolio spanning income generation, employer engagement, apprenticeships, innovation, enterprise, and marketing and communications.
You will provide strategic vision and strong leadership across the College, working with departments to increase income generation, strengthen links between curriculum teams, employers and industry bodies, and develop commercially sustainable opportunities in support of the College’s strategic ambitions.
We’re looking for a confident, forward‑thinking leader with the energy to operate at pace, influence at a senior level and deliver on our strategic ambition: Empowering People for a Changing World.
If you require any assistance in accessing the link, please contact the HR team on 01292 293591.
The closing date for applications for this vacancy is 12 noon on Wednesday 17 June 2026. Interviews will be held on 30 June 2026.
Thank you for your interest in pursuing a career with Ayrshire College.
Director of Business Development (1 FTE, Permanent) employer: Ayrshire College
Ayrshire College is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff, offering a collaborative work culture where innovation and strategic thinking are highly valued. With a focus on empowering individuals and enhancing community engagement, employees benefit from diverse professional development opportunities and a supportive environment that fosters creativity and leadership. Located in a vibrant region, the College is committed to shaping the future of learning and work, making it an inspiring place for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Business Development (1 FTE, Permanent)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, attend events, and connect with potential employers on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company, understand their mission, and think about how your skills align with their goals. We want you to walk in feeling confident and ready to showcase why you’re the perfect fit for the Director of Business Development role.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the position. We believe that a little gratitude can make you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. We’re excited to see your application for the Director of Business Development role and help you take the next step in your career!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Business Development (1 FTE, Permanent)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Director of Business Development role. Highlight your achievements in income generation and employer engagement to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about shaping the future of learning and how your leadership style can drive our strategic ambitions forward.
Showcase Your Strategic Vision:In your application, don’t forget to demonstrate your strategic vision for business development. We want to see how you plan to enhance partnerships and innovate within the sector—so get creative!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ayrshire College
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Director of Business Development. Familiarise yourself with the College's strategic ambitions and how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully grown income streams or enhanced employer engagement in previous roles.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare to share instances where you've influenced senior stakeholders or led teams to achieve strategic objectives. Highlight your ability to operate at pace and adapt to changing environments.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Ayrshire College is focused on empowering people for a changing world. Reflect on how your vision aligns with theirs and be prepared to discuss innovative ideas that could enhance their commercial portfolios. Show enthusiasm for their mission and how you can contribute to it.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions. Inquire about their current partnerships, challenges they face in income generation, or how they measure success in employer engagement. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
