Head of Placements & Engagement

About the role

Shape futures. Build partnerships. Lead innovation. 

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for student success, employability, and industry engagement? Do you thrive in dynamic environments where you can influence change, build meaningful partnerships, and inspire high-performing teams? 

We’re looking for an exceptional Head of Placements & Engagement to lead how our Faculty prepares over 1,000 students each year for successful careers. 

This is a pivotal leadership role where you will: 

• Define and deliver the Faculty’s employability and placement strategy, aligning teaching, student support, and industry collaboration to achieve outstanding student outcomes
• Shape a sector-leading placement and application-readiness experience, helping students excel throughout the recruitment process and transition confidently into the workplace
• Lead and inspire a talented placements team, driving innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in teaching and student support
• Build and strengthen strategic partnerships with industry, creating impactful opportunities for students at national and international levels

What You’ll Be Doing 

Strategic Leadership & Innovation 

• Develop and implement a forward-thinking industry engagement and placements strategy
• Use labour market insights and data to continuously evolve curriculum and delivery
• Drive innovation in digital learning, application preparation, and student support

Student Experience Excellence 

• Oversee a high-quality, inclusive placement learning journey from application to employment
• Embed evidence-based teaching practices that reflect evolving employer expectations
• Ensure all students have access to outstanding, accessible support and resources

Partnerships & External Engagement 

• Cultivate long-term partnerships with leading organisations across sectors
• Represent the Faculty at high-profile events, showcasing our strengths and impact
• Collaborate with alumni, employers, and academic colleagues to expand opportunities

Team Leadership & Development 

• Lead, coach, and develop a dedicated team of placements professionals
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing culture
• Drive continuous improvement through data, insight, and innovation

Why Join Us? 

In the Faculty of Science at the University of Bath, we’re proud of our commitment to excellence, innovation, and student success. In this role, you will: 

• Play a key leadership role shaping the future of student employability
• Work within a collaborative, forward-thinking academic community
• Lead initiatives that directly impact student outcomes at scale
• Gain opportunities for professional growth, influence, and sector-wide impact

About You 

You’re an ambitious and experienced leader who brings: 

• A strong track record in strategic planning and delivery within complex environments
• Experience in employability, placements, or work-integrated learning
• Proven ability to build and sustain high-value partnerships
• Confidence with data-driven decision making and curriculum design
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and influencing skills
• A passion for developing people, fostering innovation, and delivering impact

Further information

This is a full time role (36.5 hours per week) with an expected start date from September 2026. For an informal discussion regarding the role please contact Amanda Harper at bssalh@bath.ac.uk. 

Whilst the post is advertised as full-time, candidates seeking a 0.8 (29.2 hours per week) role are welcome to apply. 

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