Head of Global Student Recruitment & Associate Director of Global Engagement

Whiteknights Campus

The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 30^th September 2026

Interviews will be held: 13^th October 2026  - The interview will include a presentation during the interview slot

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

There may be costs associated with a visa application, including the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which are not paid for by the University of Reading and cannot be claimed back. For further information on potential costs please visit:  Healthcare Surcharge Information GOV.UK

The University of Reading is recruiting a Head of Global Student Recruitment (& Associate Director of Global Engagement) to provide strategic leadership, expert direction and operational oversight for the University’s international student recruitment activity, and support delivery of its ambitious global engagement objectives.

You will be responsible for developing and delivering a comprehensive global recruitment strategy that supports the University’s ambitions for sustainable international growth, diversification across key regions and the recruitment of high‑quality students at all levels: foundation, undergraduate, postgraduate taught and postgraduate research.

You will lead a multi‑regional operational team and oversee the University’s global network of agents, recruitment partners and in‑market representatives. You will ensure a coordinated, data‑driven and market‑aware approach to recruitment activity, working in close partnership with academic Schools and Professional Services functions, including Admissions, Marketing, International Student Advisory, Partnerships, Legal Services and Applicant Engagement. The role will also provide strategic direction to the Regional Recruitment teams based at the University’s growing network of Global Hubs in South-east Asia, South Asia, East Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.

You will be a strategic and commercially-aware leader with:

• significant experience developing and implementing international student recruitment strategies within UK higher education
• experience of developing new markets and diversifying student recruitment channels
• proven track record of leading and motivating high-performing teams to achieve ambitious targets
• demonstrable success in driving organisational change and improvement
• a track record of managing complex projects across multiple stakeholders
• evidence of data-driven decision-making and strategic planning
• a proactive and collaborative leadership style with ability to influence at all levels

For more information, please contact:

Alex Boughton – Director of Global Engagement  a.boughton@reading.ac.uk

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

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