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- Tasks: Lead transformative outreach programmes and create impactful experiences for young people.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham, a leader in education and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and extensive networking.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in widening participation and shaping future leaders.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and experience in project management and outreach.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Salary: £36,636 – £46,049 (potential progression to £48,822)
Grade: 7
Contract: Full‑Time, Fixed Term up to August 2026
Closing date: 4 May 2026
Travel: UK travel may be required
About the role
Seeking a highly experienced Widening Participation and Outreach Practitioner to join the Outreach team on a fixed‑term basis and play a key role in delivering flagship summer school programmes. The role requires deep knowledge of WP strategy and practice and a passion for creating transformative experiences for young people. The postholder will lead on planning, coordination and delivery of Year 10 and Year 12 summer school programmes, working closely with schools, internal teams and external partners to ensure an exceptional student experience. The position supports the University’s commitment to widening participation and is responsible for key elements of the Pathways to Birmingham (P2B) programmes and other outreach activities.
Main Duties
- Hold specific responsibility for a P2B suite programme, planning, arranging on‑campus and online events, recruiting staff, managing conversion activity, and reviewing the scheme.
- Present in schools about P2B and provide guidance to prospective applicants, parents/carers and school staff.
- Line‑manage Student Recruitment (Outreach) Officers and/or Outreach Coordinators.
- Lead recruitment of applications, processing through UCAS, and ensuring system alignment with Admissions.
- Lead on evaluation of the programme, providing evidence for the University’s Access and Participation Plan and using findings to improve programmes.
- Initiate and organise school visits across the country, liaise with student ambassadors and lead activities on visit days.
- Represent the University at information and guidance events, progression fairs.
- Lead development and delivery of non‑P2B projects (e.g., Forward Thinking, Undergraduate Mentoring, Academic Support Initiatives).
- Manage promotional materials and partnership work.
- Support evaluation of outreach activity for reporting to OfS and ensure data protection requirements.
- Take a lead role in systems and data management, support colleagues with data collection, use CRM and application portals, and provide training.
- Carrying out any other duties that support the Student Recruitment and Marketing Office as required.
Person Specification
- Educated to Degree level (or equivalent) with relevant practical experience.
- Knowledge of the UK education system and widening participation policy.
- Demonstrable experience managing complex projects and programmes concurrently.
- Experience working with young people from a range of backgrounds and ability to empathise.
- Highly skilled at interpreting and presenting data.
- Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
- Strong stakeholder management and ability to build relationships at all levels.
- Independent decision‑making, prioritising workload, and managing deadlines.
- Flexibility, tact and diplomacy.
- Attention to detail, able to work under pressure.
- Knowledge of safeguarding and DBS clearance.
- Proficient in IT and data analysis tools (Excel, Access, CRM).
- Experience with Microsoft Dynamics or similar valuable.
- Experience leading a team, setting goals, and ensuring deadlines are met.
- Commitment to behaviours aligned with the University and External Relations framework.
- Willingness to travel extensively across the UK, including evenings, weekends, and overnight stays.
- Valid UK driving licence and ability to travel independently during unsociable hours.
Desirable
- Experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems and digital engagement tools (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics, Gecko).
- Experience in direct line management.
DBS Required
All successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory DBS clearance prior to appointment.
Equality and Diversity
The University welcomes and supports a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive working environment that respects all protected characteristics.
Senior Outreach Officer - External Relations - 107393 - Grade 7 employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Outreach Officer - External Relations - 107393 - Grade 7
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in outreach and widening participation. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the University of Birmingham's outreach initiatives. Show us you’re passionate about their mission and have ideas on how to enhance their summer school programmes. We love candidates who come with fresh perspectives!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows us you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team. Plus, it’s where we keep all the latest opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Outreach Officer - External Relations - 107393 - Grade 7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see your passion for widening participation and outreach, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects you've led or been a part of!
Showcase Your Skills: Use your written application to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Whether it’s through your CV or cover letter, make sure you articulate your experiences clearly and effectively, especially when discussing your project management and stakeholder engagement.
Be Specific About Your Experience: When detailing your past roles, be specific about your achievements and responsibilities. We love numbers and data, so if you’ve improved a programme or increased participation rates, let us know the figures that back it up!
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Widening Participation Strategy
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Widening Participation (WP) strategy and practices. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the university's commitment to creating transformative experiences for young people.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of complex projects you've managed, especially those involving outreach or education. Highlight your ability to coordinate multiple tasks and lead teams effectively, as this role requires juggling various programmes simultaneously.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Since you'll be presenting in schools and liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Bring examples of how you've successfully communicated with diverse audiences, including students, parents, and school staff.
✨Be Ready for Data Discussions
Brush up on your data analysis skills and be prepared to discuss how you've used data to evaluate programmes. Familiarise yourself with CRM systems and be ready to explain how you've leveraged technology to enhance outreach efforts.