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- Tasks: Lead civic engagement and external relations to drive social impact and collaboration.
- Company: Bath Spa University, a hub for professional creativity and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and the chance to shape the future of education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in communities while influencing regional policies.
- Qualifications: Higher academic qualification and substantial senior-level experience required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on meaningful partnerships and sustainable growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
At Bath Spa University, we believe in the power of education to break down barriers to opportunity and to transform lives. We are the Professionally Creative for the future. Professional Creativity transcends subject disciplines, and is just as important for our sciences, education, business and law subjects as it is for our sector leading creative industries provision. We connect learners, staff and external partners with applied research and innovation. We power inclusive growth through skills development and practice based, innovation – intensive learning for all.
As we bring our new Strategy 2035 to life, we’re looking for an inspirational senior leader to play a pivotal role in raising our profile and ensuring our work delivers genuine social, cultural and economic value across the Southwest of England, London and Birmingham. This role sits at the heart of our external representation and internal engagement, supporting the Vice‑Chancellor and senior colleagues to influence regional priorities and shape policy developments that matter.
You’ll lead the development and delivery of our External Engagement Strategy, while keeping a close eye on regional needs, opportunities and policy landscapes to ensure our senior leaders are informed, connected and positioned to make a meaningful impact. Through building strong and credible relationships with senior partners across local authorities, regional networks and key civic organisations, you’ll help us form collaborations that are both purposeful and sustainable.
Internally, you’ll bring together our work on communication, reputation and engagement, ensuring we speak with coherence and confidence as one University. You’ll take responsibility for managing senior staff within the Vice‑Chancellor’s Office and will lead strategically important projects that support our long‑term vision.
We’re looking for someone with a higher academic or professional qualification and substantial senior‑level experience within regional policy, partnership-building and stakeholder leadership. You’ll bring the interpersonal warmth, influencing skills and strategic insight needed to operate confidently at the highest levels, paired with strong commercial awareness and the ability to turn big ideas into financially sustainable, practical outcomes. Credible, values‑led, collaborative and creative, you’ll be someone who builds trust quickly and genuinely enjoys working with people.
If you’re motivated by impact, partnership and purpose, and you’re excited by the idea of helping shape Bath Spa University’s next decade, we encourage you to apply.
Closing date: 9am, Tuesday 28th April 2026
Executive Director of Civic Engagement and External Relations in Somerset employer: Bath Spa University
Contact Detail:
Bath Spa University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director of Civic Engagement and External Relations in Somerset
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in your field. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Research organisations you admire, like Bath Spa University, and reach out directly. Express your interest and see if they have any upcoming opportunities. It shows initiative and can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research the organisation’s mission, values, and recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around civic engagement and partnerships. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the impact you want to make.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director of Civic Engagement and External Relations in Somerset
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Executive Director role. Highlight your background in civic engagement and external relations, as well as any relevant partnerships you've built.
Showcase Your Impact: We want to see how you've made a difference in previous roles. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your ability to influence regional priorities and shape policy developments. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through! We value interpersonal warmth and genuine collaboration, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and what drives you. Share your passion for education and community impact.
Follow the Application Process: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Don’t forget to check the closing date and submit everything on time!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bath Spa University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand Bath Spa University's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their Strategy 2035 and think about how your experience aligns with their goals in civic engagement and external relations.
✨Showcase Your Connections
Prepare to discuss your existing relationships with local authorities, regional networks, and civic organisations. Highlight specific examples of how you've built partnerships that have led to meaningful outcomes, as this role is all about collaboration.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Insight
Be ready to talk about your approach to understanding regional needs and policy landscapes. Share examples of how you've influenced policy or shaped priorities in previous roles, showcasing your ability to operate at a senior level.
✨Engage with Warmth
This role requires strong interpersonal skills, so practice conveying warmth and authenticity during your interview. Think about how you can build trust quickly and demonstrate your collaborative spirit, as these qualities are essential for success.