At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead market research projects and generate insights to drive student recruitment strategies.
- Company: Join Heriot-Watt University, a vibrant community focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of annual leave, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and a focus on well-being.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping the future of student recruitment and experience.
- Qualifications: Research experience, strong analytical skills, and ability to present findings effectively.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 47389 £ per year.
Grade and Salary: Grade 7: £37,694 - £47,389 per annum
FTE and working pattern: Full-time (35 hours per week) open-ended.
Holiday Entitlement: 33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday).
Purpose of Role: Reporting to the Head of Market Research & Analysis, this role involves planning and carrying out market insight activities including focus groups and surveys, making the most of the data these produce, in addition to conducting desk-based research into student trends across subjects and countries which will inform growth in student recruitment in line with our Strategy 2035 ambitions.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
- Lead market research and insight generation for various projects such as programme development, demand analysis (student, industry, market), student journey.
- Manage the end-to-end programme development lifecycle, from initial proposal through PMB governance to launch, delivering clear reporting for senior stakeholders.
- Drive portfolio performance through significant contributions to the annual Portfolio Review, synthesising data into actionable insights and KPIs.
- Design and deliver qualitative and quantitative research (including student and stakeholder engagement), leading initiatives such as the Student Insight Community.
- Produce high-quality insight reports and analysis to support recruitment, marketing, and strategic decision-making, including global surveys and school- or discipline-level reports.
- Lead and coordinate market insight projects and data resources across the institution, ensuring high standards, effective use of subscriptions, and alignment with strategic priorities.
Essential & Desirable Criteria:
Essential:
- Educated to at least SCQF level 7 or similar or equivalent practical experience in the workplace.
- Significant research experience; from designing research projects, including methodologies to gathering, analysing and presenting large amounts of information from multiple sources.
- Experience or familiarity with various qualitative research methods.
- Competent in the use of relevant IT packages.
- Analytical problem solving and report writing skills.
- Experience presenting research findings to stakeholders.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work quickly, flexibly and accurately in a dynamic, changing and pressured environment.
- Demonstrates a professional proactive approach.
Desirable:
- Experience of conducting qualitative research.
- Experience of Higher Education sector.
- Data analysis capabilities.
- Experience of relationship building with senior stakeholders.
About our Team: The Marketing, Student Recruitment, Admissions and Communications MRAC Group is at the heart of attracting, engaging and delivering exceptional student and stakeholder experiences. From award-winning marketing campaigns to local and global student recruitment initiatives, and communications that put Heriot-Watt on the global stage, our Group delivers professional services that support the University’s strategic ambitions.
About Heriot-Watt University: At Heriot-Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team. Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with well-being and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Market Insight Manager
✨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 Heriot-Watt University 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 Heriot-Watt University 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 Heriot-Watt University 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 Heriot-Watt University. Bring your business cards and be prepared to chat about how you can contribute!
We think you need these skills to ace Market Insight Manager
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 Heriot-Watt University. 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 Heriot-Watt University:Show us that you’ve done your homework! In your application, briefly mention what you admire about Heriot-Watt University’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 Heriot-Watt University
✨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 Heriot-Watt University 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 Heriot-Watt University, 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.
