Associate Director - International & Admissions

A career opportunity for an ambitious international student recruitment specialist in Higher Education

About this role

We are seeking an exceptional leader for this Associate Director - International & Admissions role.

This role is pivotal in delivering sustainable international growth and an outstanding, insight-led applicant experience aligned to our 2032 Strategy. The role will define and lead market-led recruitment strategies across key global regions, driving performance against ambitious targets for student numbers, income, diversity and return on investment.

The role will oversee a modern, applicant-centred admissions service, ensuring processes are efficient, compliant and scalable, while enhancing the journey from enquiry through to enrolment. Working collaboratively across Marketing, Digital, Faculties, International Partnerships and UKVI compliance functions, the role will lead a coordinated, data-informed approach to international recruitment.

Harnessing CRM, behavioural insight and digital optimisation, the role will drive segmented, personalised engagement to improve conversion and deliver a consistently high-quality experience for prospective students worldwide.

Principle accountabilities:

• Strategic Leadership
• International Student Recruitment & Market Development
• Marketing, Communications and Reputation
• Admissions Leadership & Operations
• Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
• People Leadership & Directorate Contribution
• Performance, Insight & Reporting

About you

You will bring substantial senior leadership experience in international student recruitment, with a strong track record of delivering growth, improving conversion and expanding into new markets. A strategic thinker, you can align recruitment, marketing and admissions to deliver measurable impact.

You will have sound knowledge of global recruitment trends, international marketing and UKVI compliance, alongside experience across the full applicant lifecycle, ensuring efficient and compliant processes. Data-driven and digitally confident, you are skilled in using CRM systems, analytics and insight to optimise performance and enhance the applicant journey.

Excellent communication and people leadership skills, able to inspire high-performing teams and drive continuous improvement. A collaborative and influential leader, capable of building strong relationships internally and externally, including with agents and partners.

About us

You will be joining a highly professional, committed and student focused academic community. We are a university where people matter. We value collegiality, inclusivity and shared endeavour, and are fully committed to our students, our staff and our wider communities.

In addition to your salary we offer a competitive reward package with a range of staff benefits and discounts.

Enquiries are welcomed by Olivia McLaughlin; Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary via Executive Officer; Melissa Francis, m.francis@chi.ac.uk

• Closing Date: Monday 1^st June 2026 
• Interview Date: 8^th, 9^th or 10^th June 2026

Prior to submitting your job application kindly ensure you have considered and can demonstrate your right to work in the UK.

All new external appointments are employed by Chichester Staff Services Ltd (CSSL). Internal appointments remain with their existing employer.

If you require any support with completing your application, please contact the recruitment team; staffrecruitment@chi.ac.uk

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion at every level because we believe a diverse workforce benefits us all.

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