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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to enhance student engagement and retention.
- Company: Join a leading provider of supported online education focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student success while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for student support required.
- Other info: Embrace a diverse workplace that values equality and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 40000 £ per year.
Full time (35 hrs/wk), permanent position based in Horizons (Reading, Berkshire) with up to 2 days per week working from home.
Salary range £37,000 to £40,000 pa plus benefits.
We have a fantastic opportunity for someone to join our busy but rewarding Retention team. As Student Retention Manager, you will play a key role in supporting student progression and success, taking responsibility for the effective delivery of student engagement and retention initiatives. You will focus on the leadership, development and management of the Retention team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and maintaining a student-centred approach that supports and promotes student success. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone to contribute to enhancing the student experience, ensuring our students experience high standards of service excellence and are supported throughout their studies.
Your accountabilities and responsibilities include:
- Lead the Retention team in delivering effective student engagement and retention activities.
- Lead the effective coordination of student intervention activities, ensuring timely and appropriate support for students at risk of disengagement.
- Serve as the main point of contact for the team, offering expert guidance on complex cases and relevant policies for both staff and students.
- Monitor student progression and engagement data, using insights to inform targeted interventions and improvements.
Our main requirements:
- Evidence of continued professional development.
- Proven track record of setting and maintaining high professional standards.
- Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
- Experience with implementing change and continuous improvement.
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills, particularly in a regulatory and compliance-focused environment.
At University of the Built Environment we expect employees to demonstrate our values: Passion, Integrity, Excellence and Support. Student satisfaction and success are our main drivers, and our people consistently report high levels of employee engagement; your contribution will be valued should you join us. University of the Built Environment is a long-standing and leading provider of supported online education with a long-term ambition to be the world's most sustainable university. Wellbeing and work-life balance are a priority for us, with flexible working arrangements and a generous holiday allowance amongst some of our key employee benefits.
For the full job specification and contact details please visit the current vacancies page of the University website.
TO APPLY: Please send your CV, covering letter/email, and Recruitment Check Form to the University recruitment inbox (details found within the job specification) by no later than 01 July 2025 at 5.00 p.m.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION: Here at University of the Built Environment we champion equality, diversity, and inclusion in our workforce. We celebrate diversity and the strengths it brings to our staff body, our student community and our Board of Trustees, recognising that people are key to our success. Our aim is to attract, develop and retain a diverse workforce, therefore we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Contact Detail:
University College of Estate Management Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Retention Manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in student retention strategies. Understanding what works in engaging students and keeping them on track will give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those involved in student services. Building connections can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or implemented change in previous roles. Highlighting your leadership skills will be crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the University of the Built Environment's values and mission. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs will demonstrate your commitment to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Retention Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities of a Student Retention Manager. Focus on leadership, management, and any specific achievements in student engagement or retention.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for student success and detail how your background makes you a great fit for the role. Mention specific examples of how you've led teams or implemented successful initiatives in the past.
Complete the Recruitment Check Form: Don’t forget to fill out the Recruitment Check Form available on the University’s website. Ensure all sections are completed accurately, as this is a crucial part of your application.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV, cover letter, and the Recruitment Check Form. Look for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise.
How to prepare for a job interview at University College of Estate Management
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Student Retention Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your approach to motivating and developing team members.
✨Understand Student Engagement Strategies
Familiarise yourself with effective student engagement and retention initiatives. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you would implement to support students at risk of disengagement, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Continuous Improvement Experience
The role requires a focus on continuous improvement. Prepare to discuss instances where you've implemented change successfully, particularly in a regulatory or compliance-focused environment, and how it positively impacted student outcomes.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Given the company's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, be prepared to share your views on these topics. Discuss how you can contribute to fostering an inclusive environment for both staff and students.
