Global Partnerships Development Manager

Location: Joseph Priestley Building

We have an exciting opportunity to join the Global Partnerships team at Birmingham City University (BCU). This newly established department reflects the strategic importance of international partnership development to the University’s long-term ambitions. Global Partnerships is responsible for identifying, developing and securing sustainable, high-quality international collaborations that expand BCU’s global reach. With a strong emphasis on transnational education (TNE), the team works closely with School Academic Leads to deliver a coordinated, institution-wide approach to international growth. Led by the Director of Global Partnerships, the team drives the expansion and strengthening of global academic partnerships aligned to the University’s strategic priorities. 

We are seeking an experienced partnership development professional to drive the growth and diversification of BCU’s international portfolio.

As Global Partnerships Development Manager, you will identify, develop and scale new international partnerships that grow programme portfolios, increase student enrolment and deliver sustainable income. You will be accountable for partnership income and recruitment targets, leading the development of financially robust, strategically aligned collaborations in priority global markets. You will manage the full partnership lifecycle, from early market scoping and opportunity development through due diligence, negotiation, business case approval and contract, before handover for delivery. Working closely with academic schools, senior leaders and professional services, you will ensure all opportunities align with the Global Partnerships Strategy and institutional priorities.

You will bring substantial experience in developing large-scale international academic or commercial partnerships, with a strong track record of delivering income growth through negotiated agreements. You will hold a degree in a relevant field (or bring equivalent professional experience) and have a strong track record of developing significant international commercial or academic partnerships. You will demonstrate proven experience negotiating complex contractual arrangements and delivering against financial targets, alongside the ability to prepare detailed business cases and robust financial models. You will have a strong understanding of international education markets and partnership models, and experience working collaboratively with academic colleagues and senior stakeholders. Excellent relationship-building, stakeholder engagement and cross-cultural communication skills are essential, as is the ability to manage multiple complex projects effectively within a fast-paced environment.

This is a high-impact role offering the opportunity to shape and scale BCU’s global footprint, delivering meaningful international growth and long-term strategic value.

We offer a generous pension scheme and annual leave entitlement (40 days including statutory holidays), family‑friendly policies, and state‑of‑the‑art campus facilities. We also operate a hybrid working model (three days on site), allowing staff to balance on‑site engagement with remote working where appropriate.

Informal queries regarding this role are very welcome and can be directed to Lucy Stubbs at Lucy.stubbs@bcu.ac.uk.

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 08 April 2026

Interviews are planned to take place on the 22nd of April 2026.

Advert information