Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate commercial services to enhance student experiences.
- Company: Dynamic independent education charity focused on student life.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a commitment to personal development.
- Why this job: Shape vibrant spaces and services that truly resonate with students.
- Qualifications: Experience in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing.
- Other info: Inclusive environment welcoming diverse candidates and promoting personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 85000 ÂŁ per year.
Salary: ÂŁ60,727
Location: Reading
Contract: Full Time – 37.5 hours per week (worked flexibly)
Are you ready to shape exceptional student experiences through vibrant and innovative commercial services? Our client is seeking a progressive and values-driven Director of Commercial Services to provide strategic and hands-on leadership across all commercial services, helping to deliver outstanding spaces, services and experiences for the student community.
About Them
They are an independent education charity led by, and for, students. The Students’ Union is central to the University experience and works to support all aspects of student life for the 19,000 plus students studying at the University. Located in one of Britain’s top green spaces, the Students’ Union is an ambitious and diverse organisation, committed to supporting every student in achieving personal success. They sit at the heart of a thriving student community, with activities and initiatives inspired by students themselves. The Students’ Union is committed to promoting the interests and welfare of its members, representing their needs, and offering opportunities for personal development through a wide range of social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities. This commitment to student experience also underpins the Union’s commercial activity. Their Union’s venues, services and events are designed to be inclusive, welcoming and vibrant spaces where students can connect, feel a sense of belonging and create lasting memories. Guided by student insight, the commercial services play an important role in supporting the Union’s mission while enhancing student life across campus.
About the Role
They are thrilled to be searching for a Director of Commercial Services, a dynamic leader experienced in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing. This role is not just about maintaining the status quo but about reimagining and diversifying the commercial services in line with student community needs. The ideal candidate will be both strategic and hands-on, with an ability to develop their commercial services while also being involved in delivery of the operations. The successful candidate will not necessarily come from the Higher Education sector but will be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of the trends, challenges and opportunities that shape student life and the Students’ Union sector. They will bring a sound understanding of charity governance and financial management, alongside the strategic and operational capability required to lead complex commercial services within a democratic, student-led organisation. They offer an inclusive and engaging working environment and are passionate about developing their people. The organisation is committed to ensuring its workforce reflects the diversity of the community it serves, respecting individual identity and celebrating differences. Applications are encouraged from all candidates regardless of background, and they particularly welcome applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and from candidates with disabilities. It’s a genuinely exciting time for them and they look forward to receiving your application.
Key Dates
- Closing Date: Monday 9th February, 12pm
- First Stage Interviews (Remote): 16th/17th February (TBC)
- Final Interviews (In-person): w/c 23rd February tbc
How to Apply
Please click 'Apply' to be redirected to their website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and apply.
Director of Commercial Services employer: Hireful
Contact Detail:
Hireful Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Commercial Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at the Students’ Union. You never know who might give you a heads-up about the role or even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Students’ Union, understand their mission, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led successful commercial services in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for student life! When you apply, make sure to highlight your commitment to enhancing student experiences. Share ideas on how you could innovate their commercial services to better serve the student community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining their vibrant team and making a difference in student life.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Commercial Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for enhancing student experiences! Share specific examples of how you've made a positive impact in previous roles, especially in commercial services or similar fields.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the job description. Highlight your strategic and hands-on leadership skills, and how they align with our mission to support students.
Be Authentic: We want to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to showcase your personality and values in your application. This role is all about connecting with the student community, so let that shine through.
Follow the Application Process: Remember to apply through our website! It’s super easy – just click 'Apply' and follow the steps. Make sure to check out the Candidate Information Pack for all the details you need.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hireful
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research the Students’ Union and its mission. Understand their values and how they support student life. This will help you tailor your responses to show that you’re aligned with their goals and can contribute to enhancing the student experience.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of Commercial Services, your leadership approach is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences in leading teams, especially in licensed trade, catering, or events. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed operations while also being hands-on, demonstrating your ability to balance strategy with execution.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
Given the organisation's commitment to diversity, be ready to talk about how you’ve fostered inclusive environments in previous roles. Highlight any initiatives you've led that promote diversity and how you plan to ensure that the commercial services cater to all students, creating welcoming spaces for everyone.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions. Ask about their current challenges in commercial services or how they envision the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.
