Deputy Director of Global Engagement

Manchester Metropolitan University is a great university in one of the world's best global student cities. We advance knowledge to benefit society and make higher education accessible to those with the passion to succeed. We bring change through outstanding research and excellent education and support our region and its economy by empowering and enriching our students, colleagues and our wider community.

We are seeking to appoint our first Deputy Director of Global Engagement to provide sector-leading operational oversight of the International Office - so that systems, processes and people deliver high performance in international student recruitment and global engagement. The postholder will focus on translating strategy into delivery and results. You will confidently deputise at senior committees/boards as required.

What you'll lead and deliver

• Turn the University's international strategy into clear operational plans, KPIs and delivery roadmaps.
• Drive international recruitment and conversion performance through robust forecasting, pipeline management and ROI analysis - ensuring progress toward 2030 objectives.
• Run the day-to-day of a high-performing International Office, embedding repeatable processes and a customer-centred service ethos across the enquiry-to-enrolment journey.
• Optimise budget and resources in-year; manage agents and suppliers with commercial discipline and benefits realisation.
• Lead senior managers, build a performance culture, and strengthen cross-University collaboration a broad range of stakeholders.
• Horizon-scan policy, visa/regulatory change and competitor moves; maintain forward planning calendars to stay agile in priority markets.

About you

• You'll be a commercially minded, data-driven leader who thrives in a sales and operations environment.
• Significant senior management experience in an International Office or closely related commercial environment managing international sales/recruitment functions.
• Proven success running a sales environment with strong B2B relationship management and a track record of delivering against targets.
• Knowledge of international recruitment pipelines, conversion levers, and agent/partner ecosystems.
• Strong analytical capability and evidence-based decision-making.
• Structured change leadership, high emotional intelligence and the ability to build high-performing motivated teams.

This is an unparalleled opportunity for the right individual to play a critical role in the advancement of the University, building our international profile and reputation to help deliver our vision and ambitious agenda over the next decade.

Further information and how to apply
For a confidential conversation, please contact Matt Dean, Director of Global Engagement: m.dean@mmu.ac.uk.

Applications must be made via our recruitment system and should include a full CV and a letter of application setting out your interest in the role and details of how your knowledge, skills and experience match the essential criteria being sought.

The closing date for applications is Sunday, 2 November 2025.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday, 18 November 2025.

About Manchester Met
We have been proudly driving progress for more than two centuries. As one of the UK's largest and most popular universities, we're a force for good, dedicated to delivered outstanding research and excellent education. Much more than a university, we are a place where ambitious people unite as a diverse and inclusive community to make meaningful connections. Where world-class facilities combine with exceptional minds to improve lives through innovation. We welcome those who are committed, talented, and hardworking. People who believe in our values and are as driven as we are to achieve shared goals.

Our community of over 5,100 colleagues work in close partnership every day to bring about positive change regionally, nationally, and globally.

Build a role with purpose, in an environment designed to unlock your potential. Be part of Manchester Met. Be Manchester Met proud. Let's transform lives together.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.