Director of Student Services in Leeds

Please note this role is a job share 0.5FTE and fixed term for 2 years.Leeds Beckett University is committed to making a positive and lasting difference to individuals, organisations, and communities through excellent education and research. We aim to be recognised globally as an inclusive anchor institution for the Leeds City Region and as an outstanding university that supports its diverse student community in achieving excellent outcomes while generating impactful and significant research.Student Services builds inclusive and healthy communities that enhance the student experience, support academic success, and promote overall wellbeing. We recognise the unique strengths of our students and work with them to foster independence, build confidence, identify their capabilities, and develop their internal and external resources. We cultivate strong partnerships with students, colleagues, and external agencies, guided by co-production principles that support meaningful engagement in service development and evaluation.The Service is recruiting a Director of Student Services to work in partnership with the existing postholder in a job-share arrangement. The successful applicant will share responsibility for the leadership and strategic direction of the Service alongside the current Director of Student Services.Reporting to the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), the successful candidate will provide effective leadership for Student Services and will build on our established community of practice to strengthen a sustainable, whole-university approach to colleague and student mental health and wellbeing. You will foster a culture of curiosity and continuous improvement, developing a team with the skills and knowledge required to drive innovation and robust evaluation across the Service.Informed by national policy and sector best practice, you will also provide expert advice on student services strategy, development, and delivery to university senior leaders.To apply, you must be a strong communicator with substantial senior-level experience in developing strategic plans and leading teams in the delivery of student services. You will have a proven track record of driving positive change, developing institution-wide policies, and aligning service plans with national frameworks and regulatory requirements. Knowledge of current developments and emerging priorities in the delivery of student services is essential, while expertise in student mental health would be a distinct advantage. Most importantly, you must be committed to delivering an excellent and inclusive student experience and be passionate about the importance of providing professional, flexible, and impactful student support services.We are committed to offering a supportive working environment that promotes professional growth and personal wellbeing. You will have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities to further develop your skills and expertise.Should you wish to discuss the role in confidence, please contact Jo Jones, Director of Student Services at jo.jones@leedsbeckettClosing Date: Wednesday 16th September (23.59)Working here means you’ll also have access to a wide range of benefits including our generous pension schemes, excellent holiday entitlements, flexible working, reduced study fees, subsidised fitness facilities and a lot more.We welcome applications from all individuals and particularly from black and minority ethnic candidates as members of these groups are currently under-represented at this level of post. All appointments will be based on merit.Leeds Beckett University is a Disability Confident Employer. Disabled candidates who demonstrate all essential criteria within the Person Specification will be invited to an interview.Package: Please refer to candidate pack.