At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in managing the university's commercial services for maximum impact.
- Company: De Montfort University, a vibrant campus blending history and modernity in Leicester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in student experiences while driving commercial success.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and experience in commercial strategy development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About De Montfort University
We believe our campus is one of the finest in the country; we have made a heavy investment in making it an exciting and inspiring place in which to study and work. Located in the heart of Leicester, DMU's campus blends the historical and the new, reflecting the great tradition of our home city and its buildings, while creating a legacy. Our buildings and facilities are all within walking distances of each other and only a five‑minute walk from the city centre. The centrepiece is the stunning Vijay Patel Building with an open top roof seating area, the new home of our art and design courses. There is also our newly refurbished Campus Centre, home of the De Montfort Students' Union, our striking Hugh Aston building, for business and law, our magnificent 19th‑century Hawthorn building for health and life sciences, and many others.
Role Overview
The AD of Commercial Services provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of the university's estates commercial portfolio, driving commercial value with targeted growth in revenue and surplus for the University in support of the University’s strategic ambitions. This includes developing and delivering a university‑wide commercial strategy aligned with institutional priorities and the Estates Masterplan, maximising income generation, ensuring the efficient delivery of high‑quality services, and maintaining a strong focus on student and academic experience. The post holder will act as the university's lead advisor on all estate's commercial matters, overseeing accommodation, catering, retail, conferencing, sport and leisure facilities and car parking while driving innovation, financial resilience and sustainability.
Responsibilities
Overall, this is one of the most innovative roles of its kind in the higher education sector, requiring a combination of commercial ability with a strong service ethos. You will be a leader who is passionate about people and culture with a proven track record in the development of resilient and high functioning teams. This is a post that will suit individuals who can adopt a long‑term approach to strategy alongside the rigours of ensuring best in class operations.
Contact
For a confidential discussion please contact our advisor James Gregory of The Management Recruitment Group.
Application Deadline
Closing date for online applications is Sunday 7th December 2025.
Recruitment Agency
The Management Recruitment Group has been exclusively retained for this campaign. All direct and third‑party applications will be forwarded to them.
Associate Director Of Commercial Services employer: The Management Recruitment Group
Contact Detail:
The Management Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director Of Commercial Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at De Montfort University on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give us insights into the company culture and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the university's recent projects and initiatives. We want to show that we’re genuinely interested in their mission and how we can contribute to their commercial strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions, especially those related to leadership and team management. We need to demonstrate our ability to build resilient teams and drive innovation in commercial services.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that we’re serious about joining the De Montfort community.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director Of Commercial Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity to contribute to DMU's commercial services and enhance the student experience.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Associate Director of Commercial Services role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the university's strategic ambitions and operational needs.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it's necessary, and make sure your key points stand out.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This ensures that your application is received promptly and allows us to process it efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Management Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Commercial Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the commercial services landscape within higher education. Familiarise yourself with De Montfort University's current strategies and how they align with their estates commercial portfolio. This will help you articulate how your experience can drive revenue and enhance student experiences.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As an Associate Director, your leadership approach is crucial. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to build resilient teams and foster a positive culture. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you led your team through them, demonstrating your passion for people and service.
✨Align with Institutional Priorities
Make sure you understand DMU's strategic ambitions and how the role fits into their broader goals. Be ready to discuss how you would develop a university-wide commercial strategy that aligns with these priorities, showcasing your strategic thinking and operational oversight skills.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the university. Ask about their vision for the future of commercial services or how they measure success in this area. This shows you're not just interested in the position but also in contributing to the university's legacy.