At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead UK student recruitment across various educational programmes and drive ambitious targets.
- Company: Join a supportive university community focused on student success and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, gym access, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping the future of education and student recruitment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in higher education recruitment and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 58225 - 67468 € per year.
A career opportunity for an ambitious UK student recruitment specialist in Higher Education.
We are seeking a dynamic leader to drive our UK student recruitment across undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeships and skills provision. The Associate Director - UK Recruitment role will lead delivery of ambitious targets for student numbers, income, diversity and conversion – building a strong, sustainable pipeline across school leavers, graduates, apprentices and lifelong learners. The role will shape and deliver a joined‑up approach to recruitment, aligned to evolving learner behaviours, employer needs and the opportunities presented by the Lifelong Learning Entitlement. This is a key role in advancing our ambitions for widening participation, regional impact and skills development – positioning the University as a provider of choice for students and employers alike.
Principle accountabilities:
- Strategy and Growth
- Undergraduate and Postgraduate Recruitment
- Apprenticeships, Skills and Employer Engagement
- Marketing, Outreach and Recruitment Campaigns
- Regional and Stakeholder Engagement
- Leadership and Team Management
- Performance, Insight and Planning
About you:
You are an experienced higher education recruitment leader with a strong track record of delivering growth across undergraduate, postgraduate and/or apprenticeship markets. You understand the UK recruitment landscape – from UCAS and schools engagement to postgraduate conversion, employer partnerships and emerging flexible learning models – and use insight, data and CRM to drive performance. You are a strategic thinker and collaborative leader, confident at building relationships across schools, colleges and employers, while leading teams to deliver against ambitious targets. Analytical, influential and outcomes‑focused, you bring the energy and credibility to turn strategy into results, with the ability to manage a high‑performing, student‑focused recruitment operation.
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:
- A flexible defined contribution pension scheme via Aviva Master Trust (FlexHE).
- A paid closure period over the Christmas break is in addition to our generous holiday allowance with bank holidays too 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.
You can view further details about the role in the attached job profile. Enquiries are welcomed by Olivia McLaughlin; Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary via Executive Officer; Melissa Francis, m.francis@chi.ac.uk.
Closing Date: Monday 1st June 2026
Interview Date: 8th, 9th or 10th June 2026
Prior to submitting your job application kindly ensure you have considered and can demonstrate your right to work in the UK. All new external appointments are employed by Chichester Staff Services Ltd (CSSL). Internal appointments remain with their existing employer. If you require any support with completing your application, please 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.
Associate Director - UK Recruitment in Chichester employer: University of Chichester
At Chichester Campus, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values inclusivity, professional growth, and a supportive work environment. As an Associate Director - UK Recruitment, you will benefit from a competitive salary, flexible working options, and extensive training opportunities, all while contributing to a vibrant academic community dedicated to student success and regional impact. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our generous holiday allowance, on-site gym, and comprehensive support programmes, making this an ideal place for ambitious professionals seeking meaningful careers in higher education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - UK Recruitment in Chichester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the higher education sector, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren't even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the university's values and recent initiatives. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around student recruitment and diversity. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. The more you practice, the more natural you'll feel during the real deal.
✨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 you're genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to our mission in higher education.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - UK Recruitment in Chichester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Tailor your application to resonate with the values and goals of the university. Show us that you get what we're about!
Be Specific and Relevant:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that align with the role. Use examples that highlight your success in UK recruitment and how you've driven growth in similar environments.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for student recruitment shine through! We want to see your commitment to making a difference in students' lives and how you plan to contribute to our mission.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application via our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Chichester
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the UK recruitment landscape, especially around UCAS and apprenticeship markets. Brush up on recent trends and data that could impact student recruitment, as this will show your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to achieve ambitious targets. This is crucial for demonstrating your capability as a dynamic leader.
✨Engage with Insight and Data
Be ready to discuss how you’ve used data and CRM systems to drive performance in previous roles. Bring examples of how insights have shaped your strategies and led to successful outcomes in student recruitment.
✨Connect with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the university's commitment to inclusivity and community. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of widening participation and regional impact.
