At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead market research and generate insights to drive student recruitment strategies.
- Company: Join Heriot-Watt University, a diverse and inclusive institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, competitive salary, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student recruitment and contribute to strategic growth.
- Qualifications: Research experience and strong analytical skills are essential.
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) fixed term for 6 months.
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:
- 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.
- Experience of conducting qualitative research.
- Experience of Higher Education sector.
- Data analysis capabilities.
- Experience of relationship building with senior stakeholders.
How to Apply: Applications can be submitted up to 11:55pm (UK time) on Monday 20th July. Please submit your CV & covering letter via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment.
We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g.; part-time working and job share options.
Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised, and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all. Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our university community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups.
Market Insight Manager (Fixed Term) employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University in Orkney is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of renewable energy. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to impactful research and curriculum development in marine energy technologies. The unique location in Orkney, known for its pioneering work in offshore energy, provides a stimulating backdrop for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Market Insight Manager (Fixed Term)
✨Dive into Local Events
Get involved with local marketing and communications events! These are great places to meet people from the industry, learn about temporary roles, and even uncover hidden job leads. Check out local networking events or marketing conferences that might be happening in your area.
✨Show Off Your Work
Create a standout digital portfolio showcasing your previous campaigns, writing samples, or projects. Share this on social media and professional groups relevant to marketing-communications. This public visibility can often attract interest from potential employers, especially for those temporary gigs!
✨Utilise Online Job Boards
Focus on job boards specific to marketing and communications. Sites like MarketingJobs.com or even LinkedIn can have temp roles that aren’t always advertised on the usual job sites. Keep your eyes peeled and apply through our website—temp roles can come up unexpectedly, and you want to be first in line!
✨Tap into Your Uni's Resources
If you're still at university, don't forget to lean on your career services for temporary marketing roles. They often have connections to firms looking for interns or temporary staff who can jump in at short notice. Plus, networking with your professors can lead to some valuable opportunities—always worth a chat!
We think you need these skills to ace Market Insight Manager (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience with Campaigns:In marketing-communications, it’s all about showcasing your ability to create impactful campaigns. Make sure to include any relevant projects you’ve worked on in your CV, detailing your role, the strategies used, and the results achieved. We're looking for candidates who can demonstrate their creativity and analytical skills!
Tailor Your Writing Samples:For a temporary role, we want to see your versatility and adaptability in communication. Include a couple of writing samples that align with our brand voice or reflect your ability to engage various audiences. This gives us a taste of what you can bring to the team at Heriot-Watt University from day one!
Show Off Your Digital Savvy:Digital marketing is a big part of marketing-communications, so make sure your application reflects your understanding of social media, SEO, and content marketing. Feel free to throw in any certificates you've earned in these areas—it shows your initiative and dedication to learning the latest trends!
Express Your Enthusiasm for the Short-Term Role:In your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in this temporary position at Heriot-Watt University specifically. Share what you hope to learn during your time with us and how you can contribute to our ongoing projects. We're all about passion and potential, so let that shine through!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Showcase Your Creative Portfolio
As a candidate for a temporary marketing-communications role at Heriot-Watt University, your portfolio will speak volumes. Bring along samples of your best work—think campaigns you've managed, social media content, and any visuals. Be ready to talk through your creative process and the impact your work had on previous projects.
✨Understand the Latest Trends
We know the marketing-communications field moves at lightning speed. Make sure you brush up on the latest trends—such as digital storytelling or the effectiveness of influencer partnerships. Being able to discuss these trends during your interview will show Heriot-Watt University you're not just up-to-date but also eager to innovate.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly and work on short timelines. Share examples from your past where you had to pivot a strategy or campaign swiftly to meet changing demands. This will reassure Heriot-Watt University that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Ready Your Communication Strategy
Be prepared for questions that assess your communication skills. You might get asked to pitch a marketing idea on the spot or create a quick content plan. This is your chance to shine and show how your unique perspective can solve problems for Heriot-Watt University, so think on your feet and don't hesitate to showcase your creativity!
