At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead marketing and communications strategy to boost BUCS' profile and reputation.
- Company: Join BUCS, a dynamic organisation at the forefront of higher education and sport.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with regular travel to London.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sports marketing while engaging with students and institutions.
- Qualifications: Senior marketing experience and a passion for engaging audiences.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) is looking for an Associate Director – Marketing & Communications to lead its marketing and communications strategy as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
The Role
Reporting to the CEO, you will shape and drive a contemporary marketing and communications approach that increases the profile, reach and reputation of BUCS, supports its strategy and strengthens the value it provides to students, member institutions and partners. You will also use your marketing expertise to build commercial potential and support commercial partners, while keeping members’ needs central to BUCS’ approach.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership for BUCS’ marketing and communications functions
- Develop and deliver a strategic programme that increases BUCS’ reach, reputation and influence across higher education and sport
- Develop creative approaches to marketing with and to students to drive entries to BUCS sport events
- Lead corporate and member communications and drive attendance at member events
- Work with the Director of Sport to promote the BUCS sport portfolio through events, broadcast, storytelling and social media
- Use research, insight and data to inform activity and support the annual Impact Report
- Lead the evolution of BUCS’ brand and visual identity
- Work with commercial colleagues to develop propositions and support commercial partners
About You
- Senior experience leading, developing and motivating others
- Significant professional marketing experience and a strong understanding of current and emerging practice, audience engagement and channels
- Experience developing creative marketing approaches that engage students
BUCS encourages you to apply even if you do not meet 100% of the person specification.
Key Details
- Location: UK-based hybrid, with regular travel to London
- Contract: Permanent, full time
- Salary: Up to £64,000
- Interviews: 1, 3 and 4 December 2026
- Closing date: 19 November 2026 (11:59pm)
Associate Director – Marketing & Communications employer: British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS)
BUCS is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture at the UEL Docklands Campus in London, where creativity and innovation thrive. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, a supportive team environment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on student engagement through dynamic marketing initiatives. Join us to be part of a passionate community dedicated to promoting sports and enhancing the university experience.
Contact Details:
British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director – Marketing & Communications
✨Show Your Creative Side
In marketing communications, standing out is key. Get creative with your application! Consider designing a mini-campaign or pitch that highlights your skills and understanding of the brand. Tailor it for British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) and show them what you can bring to the table.
✨Engage in Marketing Communities
Get involved in local or online marketing communications groups. Check out platforms like Meetup for events and workshops. Networking here can lead to hidden job openings and valuable insights into the industry trends—this is where we often discover what companies like British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) are looking for.
✨Leverage Social Media
Use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to showcase your passion for marketing communications. Share insights, articles, and your own content that resonates with the industry. Tagging or interacting with British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) on these platforms can catch the eye of recruiters and show you're genuinely interested in them.
✨Attend Industry Events
Keep an eye out for marketing conferences and workshops. These are great places to meet potential employers face-to-face and make connections that could land you a full-time role at British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS). Bring your business cards and be prepared to chat about how you can contribute!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director – Marketing & Communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft an Impactful Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Focus on your passion for marketing communications and how your previous experiences can benefit British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS). Make sure to mention specific campaigns or projects you’ve worked on that showcase your creativity and strategic thinking.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:As you're diving into a marketing communications role, your writing ability is crucial. Include samples of your work, like blog posts, press releases, or social media campaigns in your application. This lets us see your style and how you engage with different audiences.
Tailor Your CV to Marketing:Your CV should highlight relevant marketing skills and experiences! Include specific tools or platforms you’ve used, like Google Analytics or social media management software. Mention any certifications or workshops related to marketing that you've completed – they can give you an edge!
Demonstrate Your Understanding of British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS):Show us that you’ve done your homework! In your application, briefly mention what you admire about British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS)’s marketing approach or any recent campaigns that caught your attention. This can reveal your enthusiasm for the role and your genuine interest in joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS)
✨Showcase Your Creative Campaigns
Get ready to flaunt your portfolio! Include examples of previous marketing campaigns you've worked on, especially those that showcase your creativity and strategy. Recruiters at British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) will be keen to see how you conceptualise and execute campaigns, so highlight any measurable outcomes to back up your claims.
✨Know Your Digital Tools Inside Out
If you’re heading into a marketing-communications role, make sure you're comfortable discussing key digital marketing tools like Google Analytics, HubSpot, or Hootsuite. Expect some technical questions about how you've used these tools in the past, as they'll want to gauge your hands-on experience and how you analyse data to drive marketing decisions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
At British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS), they may throw some scenario-based questions your way, aimed at testing your problem-solving skills in real-life marketing situations. Think through potential challenges you’ve faced, how you navigated them, and be prepared to discuss your thought process and outcome.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Marketing
As you’re applying for a full-time position, show that you're not just looking for a job, but a career in marketing. Talk about the latest trends in marketing communications, your favourite campaigns, and why they inspire you. Your enthusiasm can really make you stand out and demonstrate that you’re committed to growing within the field.
