Head of Access, Student Success and Development

Location: Oxford Road

Hours Per Week: Full time (1 FTE)

Are you passionate about enhancing access, student success and development in higher education? The University of Manchester is seeking an emotionally intelligent and innovative leader to join our Division of Student and Academic Services as our inaugural the Head of Access, Student Success and Development. This is your chance to make a significant impact on our community, ensuring that every learner that engages with us has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead Initiatives: Spearhead the creation and execution of initiatives aimed at improving access, student success and development initiatives for young people in the northwest and students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

Strategic Guidance: Provide expert advice to senior leaders, helping to shape policies and practices that align with the University’s strategic objectives.

Foster Partnerships: Build strong connections with schools, community organisations, and external stakeholders to enhance pathways to higher education and support student attainment.

Innovative Programmes: Design and implement tailored mentoring, coaching, and support initiatives that foster student engagement and a sense of belonging.

Manage Resources: Oversee budgets and funding for access and participation initiatives, ensuring effective and transparent management of resources.

Enhance Student Experience: Ensure seamless welcome and transition experiences for new and continuing students through innovative programs and initiatives.

Why Join Us?

At the University of Manchester, we are committed to promoting a culture of service excellence and inclusivity. As the Head of Access, Student Success and Development, you will play a pivotal role in transforming the student experience and driving our strategic objectives. You will work collaboratively with passionate colleagues across the institution to create a supportive and empowering environment for all students and the young people within our wider community.

Ideal Candidate:

We are looking for someone who is:

• A visionary leader with a strong emotional intelligence
• Experienced in developing strategic initiatives and managing budgets in higher education organisation
• Committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of their work
• A collaborative communicator who can engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are excited about the opportunity to lead transformative initiatives that support student success and access, we would love to hear from you! For informal enquiries, please contact Craig Best at craig.best@manchester.ac.uk

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 20/02/2025

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