Head of Student Services

Abertay is a modern university with a global outlook, rooted in its local and national communities. We are recognised for delivering high-quality teaching, an outstanding student experience, and impactful research. Our commitment to innovation, inclusion, and student success underpins everything we do.

Student & Academic Services plays a central role in enabling student success, bringing together expertise across student support, wellbeing, employability, and academic administration to deliver a coherent and high-quality student journey.

The role

Reporting to the Director of Student and Academic Services, the Head of Student Services will provide leadership and operational oversight of a broad portfolio of student-facing services, including wellbeing, counselling and mental health, financial and disability support, careers and employability, and sport.

You will lead a large, multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality, inclusive, and student-centred services that enhance student experience, promote wellbeing, and improve retention, progression, and graduate outcomes.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of Student Services aligned to the University’s strategic goals and student success priorities
• Ensure a joined-up, accessible student journey, from enrolment to graduation, with a strong focus on belonging, engagement, and outcomes
• Oversee key support and casework processes, including complaints, appeals, safeguarding, and fitness to study
• Lead on continuous improvement, using data, insight, and performance frameworks to enhance services and demonstrate impact
• Provide inspirational leadership, developing high-performing teams and embedding a culture aligned to Abertay’s values: Innovative, Caring, Inclusive, and Collaborative
• Manage resources effectively, ensuring efficient, sustainable, and high-quality service delivery

About you

We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader who can operate effectively in a complex and evolving higher education environment.

You will be:

• A credible and collaborative leader with significant experience in student services or a related field
• Skilled in delivering student-centred services that improve outcomes and experience
• Experienced in leading complex teams, managing risk, and delivering service transformation
• Knowledgeable about regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements in higher education
• A strong communicator and influencer, able to engage effectively across the institution and with external partners

Why join us?

This is a critical leadership role with the opportunity to shape the future of student services at Abertay and make a tangible difference to the lives and success of our students.

How to apply

If you believe you have the skills and experience for this exciting and challenging role, please submit your application through our online recruitment system.

Please note that we will only accept applications through our online recruitment system.

Committed to Equal Opportunities

Abertay University is a Scottish Registered Charity,

No: SC016040

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