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- Tasks: Lead student support services and shape wellbeing strategies at the University.
- Company: Lancaster University, committed to student success and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Influence student wellbeing and create a positive legacy in higher education.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading student services and knowledge of safeguarding frameworks.
- Other info: Join a diverse community dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 59966 - 67468 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £59,966 to £67,468 (Full time, indefinite)
Closing Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: 0010-26
Do you want to shape a sector-leading approach to student wellbeing and make a lasting positive difference to students’ lives? We are seeking an exceptional leader who performs with integrity, fairness, and sound professional judgement in complex and sensitive environments who will provide leadership across a complex, multidisciplinary portfolio of services that sit at the heart of the University’s commitment to student success, inclusion and wellbeing. This is a rare opportunity to influence institutional culture, deliver innovative practice and ensure that student wellbeing is at the heart of the University experience.
About The Role
As Head of Student Support and Wellbeing Services, you will lead services spanning student mental health, disability and inclusive practice, casework, partnerships and advice. You will set the direction for services that are inclusive, trauma-informed, evidence-based and aligned with best practice and regulatory requirements. Reporting to the Associate Director (Student Wellbeing and Inclusion), you will act as the University’s senior specialist adviser on student wellbeing and serve as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for Students, playing a critical role in meeting Office for Students requirements and safeguarding obligations. You will work collaboratively with students, academic leaders, professional services colleagues and external partners to create a joined‑up, coherent and responsive student support ecosystem.
What You’ll Bring
- Significant experience of leading specialist, student‑facing or comparable services
- Knowledge of safeguarding, risk management and regulatory frameworks within higher education or a related sector
- A proven track record of managing complex services, critical incidents and institutional risk
- Highly developed communication skills, including the ability to influence at senior and board level
- Strong digital and data fluency, with experience of using systems and insight to improve services
- A collaborative approach and the ability to build trusted partnerships internally and externally
Above all, you will share our commitment to placing students at the centre of service design and delivery.
Why join us? You will join a University that is ambitious about student wellbeing and inclusion, values professional expertise and reflective practice, and is committed to continuous improvement. This role offers genuine scope to innovate, influence strategy and leave a meaningful legacy for students and staff alike. If you are motivated by purpose, impact and leadership at scale, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Please explore the full candidate pack: Candidate Pack
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
Head of Student Support and Wellbeing Services - 0010-26 employer: Lancaster University
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Student Support and Wellbeing Services - 0010-26
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the university through LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the role and the culture, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in student wellbeing. We should be ready to discuss how we can bring innovative ideas to the table that align with the university's goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help us refine our answers and boost our confidence. Let’s focus on showcasing our leadership skills and experience in complex environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team and contributing to student success.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Student Support and Wellbeing Services - 0010-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Student Support and Wellbeing Services role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with our commitment to student wellbeing and inclusion.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in complex environments, especially those that focus on student support and wellbeing.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas, making it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference in students' lives.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Head of Student Support and Wellbeing Services role. Familiarise yourself with current trends in student wellbeing, safeguarding practices, and how they align with regulatory frameworks. This will show that you’re not just interested in the position but also passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex services. Think about specific situations where you’ve influenced change or improved student outcomes. This is your chance to demonstrate your ability to lead with integrity and fairness.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Given the importance of communication in this role, be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully influenced stakeholders at various levels. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses for clarity.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your collaborative approach by discussing past experiences where you’ve built partnerships with students, academic leaders, and external organisations. Show that you understand the value of a joined-up support ecosystem and how you can contribute to creating one.
