At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1-1 support and advice to students on academic issues.
- Company: Join the vibrant University of Portsmouth Students’ Union, dedicated to positively impacting student lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday, and access to great perks like gym discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that values inclusivity and personal development.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service and knowledge of university guidelines is essential.
- Other info: Applications are anonymous to ensure fairness; we welcome diverse candidates.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 ÂŁ per year.
The Post
The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union is a vibrant, forward thinking organisation with a vision of Delivering a Positive Impact with every Portsmouth student. An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Student Advice Team. The Post Holder will be meeting with students on a 1-1 basis to provide impartial advice and advocate for individual students on academic issues affecting University of Portsmouth students. You will be the first point of contact with students visiting or contacting the Advice Service for support and as the first point of contact with the Advice Service. It is vital that we give an excellent first impression that reflects the Union’s values and services. The post holder will maintain high standards of customer care and adhere to the Union’s policies and procedures.
The Person
The Post holder will have experience of providing a high standard of customer services. They will require experience of working within a Higher Educational environment or, have recent experience or knowledge of University guidelines. The right person for the post will require excellent listening and communication skills and experience of working with clients on a 1-1 basis in a supporting role. The post holder will have the ability to work in a busy and high-pressured environment with the skills to prioritise work quickly and efficiently.
What we offer
- Strong team mentality, supportive and sociable workplace
- Regular training opportunities and team development days
- 38 days holiday (30 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays) and additional Christmas leave (University shutdown)
- Flexible working (e.g. flexitime, career break, paid time off for volunteering)
- 35 hour week
- Enhanced sick pay, maternity, paternity or adoption leave
- Access to University staff benefits: discounted gym membership, free library membership, bike safe
- Employee Assistance Programme
The Organisation
The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union (The Union or UPSU for short) is a forward thinking, friendly organisation with a vision of “delivering a positive impact with every Portsmouth student”. As a charity led by its values and guided by its members, we offer a wide range of services and activities to support and enrich the lives of our students. UPSU employs approximately 30 career staff, a further 40 student staff and we work with over 1000 registered student volunteers and over 100 student groups
Further Information
For more information on this opportunity and how to apply, please visit our website
Closing date for applications: midday, 4th August 2025
Interviews will be held on date: 13th August 2025
We kindly ask that candidates do not send CVs or cover letters as these will not be considered. You can find an application form on our website.
Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role to ensure a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. We will not disclose any personal details to the shortlisting panel. Any documents or links with identifying information will not be used during shortlisting, but can be submitted if you are selected for an interview.
We are strongly dedicated to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within our community and we are passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment which supports everyone from recruitment through to appointment, regardless of your background. We welcome applications from all talented people and as part of this commitment, we are working to improve the diversity of our workforce to ensure that it is as relevant and representative of our student community as possible and are actively encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.
The Union is a MINDFUL EMPLOYER® and we are committed to creating a supportive and open culture and actively support the mental wellbeing of all staff.
Due to the high number of applicants, if you have not heard from UPSU by the interview date you should assume you have been unsuccessful in your application.
Locations
Student Adviser employer: University of Portsmouth Students' Union
Contact Detail:
University of Portsmouth Students' Union Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Adviser
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University of Portsmouth's policies and procedures. Understanding these guidelines will not only help you in your role but also demonstrate your commitment to the position during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your listening and communication skills. Since you'll be working one-on-one with students, being able to effectively listen and respond to their needs is crucial. Consider role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Research common academic issues faced by university students. Being knowledgeable about these challenges will allow you to provide better support and advice, making a positive impression on both the interviewers and future students.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your customer service experience. Think of specific examples where you've provided excellent service, especially in high-pressure situations. This will highlight your ability to maintain high standards of care, which is essential for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Student Adviser position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous experience in customer service or working in a higher education environment. Provide specific examples of how you've supported individuals in a 1-1 setting, showcasing your listening and communication skills.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to complete the application form found on the University of Portsmouth Students’ Union website. Remember, they do not accept CVs or cover letters, so focus on providing detailed and relevant information in the application form.
Showcase Your Values: Demonstrate your alignment with the Union’s values in your application. Discuss your commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and how you can contribute to creating a welcoming environment for all students.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Portsmouth Students' Union
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Student Adviser, you'll be the first point of contact for students. Highlight your previous experience in customer service and how you've successfully handled inquiries or issues in a supportive manner.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of University Guidelines
Familiarise yourself with the University of Portsmouth's policies and procedures. Being able to discuss these during your interview will show that you're prepared and understand the environment you'll be working in.
✨Exhibit Strong Listening and Communication Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your ability to listen actively and communicate effectively. This is crucial for providing impartial advice and advocating for students' needs.
✨Prepare for a High-Pressure Environment
Think of scenarios where you've had to prioritise tasks quickly in a busy setting. Sharing these experiences will demonstrate your ability to thrive under pressure, which is essential for this role.