Head of Student Recruitment

SRUC - a specialist higher education institution covering research, education & consulting services, focussing on the natural economy is entering an exciting phase of growth and transformation, with ambitious plans to expand its reach, impact, and student community.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer & Deputy CEO, the Head of Recruitment will play a pivotal leadership role in shaping and delivering SRUC’s student recruitment strategy. The postholder will lead the development and implementation of a data-driven, insight-led approach to recruitment, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and market demands.

This role will drive the strategic and operational management of UK student recruitment, overseeing the design and delivery of targeted campaigns, events, and engagement activities to grow student numbers, improve conversion rates, and support portfolio development. The Head of Recruitment will also foster strong cross-functional collaboration and lead a high-performing team to deliver measurable outcomes in a competitive and evolving higher education landscape.

Qualifications and experience required:

Essential

• SCQF Level 10 (Honours degree) or equivalent professional experience.
• Significant experience in UK higher education student recruitment.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic recruitment plans across complex organisations.
• Experience leading and managing teams, with a track record of motivating and developing staff.
• Budget management experience, with evidence of delivering value and impact.
• Strong understanding of the UK higher education landscape, including admissions, widening access, and recruitment trends.
• Experience delivering high-quality recruitment events and communications within a strategic framework.
• Working knowledge of GDPR and compliance requirements.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement skills. 

Desirable

• SCQF Level 11 (Master’s degree) or professional qualification in a relevant field.
• Leadership qualification or equivalent experience.
• Experience using CRM and admissions systems to support recruitment strategy.
• Knowledge of UK Government policy and sector bodies (e.g. UCAS, HESA, LANTRA).
• Experience in data-driven decision-making and performance analysis. 

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker with strong leadership presence and commercial awareness.
• Results-driven, with a proactive and resilient approach.
• Confident communicator, able to influence at all levels.
• Collegial and collaborative, with a commitment to inclusion and continuous improvement. 

A current full driving licence is required as travel to remote areas not covered by public transport is a feature in this role. 

Further details of the requirements of the role can be found in the Job Particulars document which you must read prior to applying.