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- Tasks: Lead and innovate commercial services to enhance student experiences.
- Company: Dynamic education charity focused on student life and community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a commitment to personal development.
- Why this job: Shape vibrant spaces and services that make a real difference for students.
- Qualifications: Experience in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with a focus on diversity and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 48700 - 73400 £ per year.
Salary: £60,727
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 its 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 in London employer: Hireful
Contact Detail:
Hireful Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Commercial Services in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or related fields. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to chat about opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on the Director of Commercial Services role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get that interview, let your passion for enhancing student experiences shine through. Share stories that highlight your strategic thinking and hands-on leadership style. Make them see how you can bring their vision to life!
✨Tip Number 3
Do your homework! Research the Students’ Union and understand their mission and values. Tailor your conversation to show how your experience aligns with their goals. This will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to their community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the organisation. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to make a real impact!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Commercial Services in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for enhancing student experiences shine through. We want to see how your values align with ours and how you can contribute to our vibrant community.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Commercial Services. Highlight relevant experience in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing. We love seeing how your background fits with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Be strategic and hands-on in your approach, and don’t forget to mention how you plan to reimagine our commercial services based on student needs.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you can find all the details you need in the Candidate Information Pack!
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 commitment to enhancing student life and how your experience in commercial services can align with their goals. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their organisation.
✨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 dynamic environments like licensed trade or catering. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed operations while fostering an inclusive and engaging atmosphere.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
This role requires a blend of strategic vision and hands-on execution. Prepare to discuss how you've identified trends and opportunities in previous roles, particularly those that relate to student needs. Think about how you can reimagine commercial services to enhance the student experience and be ready to share your ideas.
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about their current challenges in commercial services or how they envision the future of student engagement. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
