Head of International Admissions

Introduction

We are seeking a proactive Head of International Admissions to lead the delivery of a high-quality international admissions service for applicants.

Role information

Reporting to the Associate Director Admissions, the postholder will lead a UK-based and overseas admissions team to ensure efficient, accurate, and applicant-focused processing. They will use data and sector insights to inform operational improvements, optimise resource allocation, and support the development of responsive admissions practices that align with institutional goals and the evolving global education landscape.

We are looking for an individual experienced in admissions and with an understanding of the international sector who can bring a strategic mindset, excellent communication skills and a solution-focussed approach to admissions.

Main activities and responsibilities

We are looking for a motivated person who can lead our international admissions function, with a particular focus on the following areas:

• Setting admissions and conversion strategy for international admissions
• Leading a team of Admissions Managers, with responsibility for UK and overseas posts

• Managing the delivery of processing of international admissions applications, ensuring timely decision-making and regulatory compliance.

• Using admissions data to monitor team performance, inform resource planning, and make operational adjustments to the international admissions teams.
• Taking ownership of continuous improvement of admissions to improve admissions workflows, increase efficiency, and enhance the applicant experience.

• Developing processes and policies for international admissions staff to maintain high-quality and consistent service standards.

• Liaising with academic schools and senior management on application volumes, turnaround times, conversion rates, and other key performance metrics.
• Implementing recruitment strategies by ensuring admissions practices are responsive and applicant centred.

• Working closely with the Compliance team to align CAS issuing and international admissions processes.

Skills and Experience

Essential

1. Experience with UKVI requirements in relation to admissions
2. Experience of managing admissions processes in a higher education or similar regulated environment.
3. Experience of leading a team and supporting staff development and performance
4. Knowledge of UK and international qualifications, entry requirements and admissions regulations.
5. Skills in managing large volumes of data, applications and communications accurately and efficiently
6. Experience of applying admissions policies and resolving complex or borderline decisions.
7. Skills in using digital systems and tools to support admissions (e.g., CRM, student records systems).
8. Experience of working collaboratively with academic and professional services colleagues.
9. Ability to prioritise and deliver under pressure, maintaining high standards and applicant focus.

Desirable

1. Experience of contextual admissions or widening participation-focused recruitment.
2. Experience of producing policy, process or system development in a higher education context.

For more information or to book a consultation, please email: Thomas.kidd@bcu.ac.uk

The appointed candidate will normally be employed through our subsidiary company BCU Support Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Birmingham City University. Appointees with prior LGPS membership who wish to enter the LGPS scheme will be able to do so and will be employed by Birmingham City University directly.

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