Director of International

What does it mean to be a truly international university in a world where the traditional models of global higher education are being challenged?

At Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU), we see internationalisation as an opportunity to do much more than recruit students from overseas. We are seeking an exceptional Director of International who can help us rethink how we engage with the world, develop meaningful global partnerships and build a more ambitious, innovative and sustainable international future.

As Scotland's largest modern university, GCU has a distinctive identity, an established international presence and a proud commitment to creating opportunities through education, research and partnership. But we recognise that yesterday's approaches will not necessarily deliver tomorrow's success.

We want to be a university that looks outward with confidence, challenges established models and develops new ways of connecting people, knowledge and opportunity across borders. An institution that is internationally ambitious while remaining true to its commitment to widening access, addressing inequality and delivering positive social impact.

With a new Strategy 2035 in development, this is an opportunity to shape the international direction of a university that is determined not simply to respond to changes in global higher education, but to help lead them.

The opportunity

Reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor, International and Marketing, the Director of International will provide strategic leadership for international student recruitment, transnational education and international partnerships.

This is an opportunity to rethink how GCU approaches international growth. We are looking for someone who can bring new ideas to the development of a resilient, high-performing international recruitment operation, diversifying markets and channels, strengthening agent relationships and exploring different models of international engagement.

Working closely with academic and professional services colleagues, you will also help shape the University's transnational education ambitions, develop strategic partnerships and oversee international student mobility.

You will be joining a wider leadership team that recognises the importance of collaboration across international recruitment, marketing, communications and external engagement. Together, these functions will play a central role in strengthening GCU's reputation, reach and long-term sustainability.

About you

We are seeking an experienced international higher education leader with a demonstrable record of improving international student recruitment performance, developing new markets and leading teams through change.

You will understand the complexities of the global recruitment environment, including agent management, regulatory compliance, market diversification and the need to balance growth ambitions with financial and reputational risk. You will also bring experience of transnational education and international partnership development.

We are particularly interested in candidates who are willing to question established practice, explore new models and bring the creativity and commercial judgement required to navigate an increasingly competitive international environment.

Above all, you will be a collaborative and engaging leader who recognises the importance of developing talented teams, building trusted relationships and ensuring that international activity contributes meaningfully to the wider ambitions of the University.

For the right individual, this is an opportunity to help shape a distinctive, ambitious and internationally connected university that is determined to make a positive difference in the world.

How to apply

Glasgow Caledonian University is working in partnership with Alumni Global on this appointment. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and we welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

For a confidential discussion, further information and details of how to apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

Closing date: 27th November 2026