At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead international student recruitment and enhance the applicant experience.
- Company: Join a student-focused university committed to inclusivity and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global education while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in international recruitment and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
A career opportunity for an ambitious senior student recruitment & admissions specialist in Higher Education to join our Marketing, Recruitment, Admissions & Communications team.
About this role
We are seeking an exceptional leader for this Associate Director - International & Admissions role. This role is pivotal in delivering sustainable international growth and an outstanding, insight-led applicant experience aligned to our 2032 Strategy. The role will define and lead market-led recruitment strategies across key global regions, driving performance against ambitious targets for student numbers, income, diversity and return on investment. The role will oversee a modern, applicant‑centred admissions service, ensuring processes are efficient, compliant and scalable, while enhancing the journey from enquiry through to enrolment. Working collaboratively across Marketing, Digital, Faculties, International Partnerships and UKVI compliance functions, the role will lead a coordinated, data‑informed approach to international recruitment. Harnessing CRM, behavioural insight and digital optimisation, the role will drive segmented, personalised engagement to improve conversion and deliver a consistently high‑quality experience for prospective students worldwide.
Principle accountabilities
- Strategic Leadership
- International Student Recruitment & Market Development
- Marketing, Communications and Reputation
- Admissions Leadership & Operations
- Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
- People Leadership & Directorate Contribution
- Performance, Insight & Reporting
About you
You will bring substantial senior leadership experience in international student recruitment, with a strong track record of delivering growth, improving conversion and expanding into new markets. A strategic thinker, you can align recruitment, marketing and admissions to deliver measurable impact. You will have sound knowledge of global recruitment trends, international marketing and UKVI compliance, alongside experience across the full applicant lifecycle, ensuring efficient and compliant processes. Data‑driven and digitally confident, you are skilled in using CRM systems, analytics and insight to optimise performance and enhance the applicant journey. Excellent communication and people leadership skills, able to inspire high‑performing teams and drive continuous improvement. A collaborative and influential leader, capable of building strong relationships internally and externally, including with agents and partners.
About us
You will be joining a highly professional, committed and student‑focused academic community. We are a university where people matter. We value collegiality, inclusivity and shared endeavour, and are fully committed to our students, our staff and our wider communities.
Benefits and compensation
In addition to your salary we offer a competitive reward package with a range of staff benefits and discounts which include:
- A flexible defined contribution pension scheme via Aviva Master Trust (FlexHE).
- A paid closure period over the Christmas break in addition to our generous holiday allowance with bank holidays and an occupational sickness scheme.
- On‑site gym at our Chichester campus.
- Hybrid working options.
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme to support our staff.
- Extensive personal / professional training opportunities throughout the year.
- Cycle to work, Season Ticket Loan and Electric Vehicle schemes.
- Bus travel for staff between our Bognor Regis and Chichester campuses and Chichester city centre.
Contact
Enquiries are welcomed by Olivia McLaughlin; Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary via Executive Officer; Melissa Francis, m.francis@chi.ac.uk. If you require any support with completing your application, contact the recruitment team; staffrecruitment@chi.ac.uk. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion at every level because we believe a diverse workforce benefits us all.
Closing Date: Monday 1st June 2026
Interview Date: 8th, 9th or 10th June 2026
Associate Director - International & Admissions in Chichester employer: University of Chichester
Join a dynamic and inclusive academic community that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. As an Associate Director - International & Admissions, you will benefit from a competitive reward package, flexible working options, and extensive training opportunities, all while contributing to a mission-driven environment focused on delivering exceptional experiences for prospective students. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, this role offers a unique chance to lead impactful recruitment strategies in a supportive and forward-thinking institution located in the beautiful Chichester area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - International & Admissions in Chichester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the higher education sector, especially those involved in international recruitment. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up at industry events and conferences. These are golden opportunities to meet potential employers face-to-face. Bring your A-game, and don’t forget to follow up with anyone you connect with!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the institution’s values and recent initiatives. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around international growth and student engagement.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our community and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - International & Admissions in Chichester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate Director role. Highlight your experience in international student recruitment and how it aligns with our 2032 Strategy. We want to see how you can drive growth and improve the applicant experience!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about strategic leadership, so don’t hold back! Share examples of how you've led teams to success in the past, especially in areas like marketing and admissions. We love seeing how you inspire high-performing teams!
Be Data-Driven:We’re looking for someone who’s comfortable with data and analytics. Include specific metrics or outcomes from your previous roles that demonstrate your ability to optimise performance and enhance the applicant journey. Numbers speak volumes!
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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Chichester
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the current trends in international student recruitment. Understand the key global regions the company is targeting and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their market-led strategies.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in driving performance and improving conversion rates. Be ready to discuss how you've inspired teams and collaborated across departments to achieve ambitious targets.
✨Data-Driven Insights
Familiarise yourself with CRM systems and analytics tools relevant to the role. Be prepared to share how you've used data to inform recruitment strategies and enhance the applicant journey, demonstrating your digital confidence.
✨Engage with Their Values
Research the university's commitment to inclusivity and community. During the interview, express how your values align with theirs and provide examples of how you've fostered a collaborative environment in previous roles.
