Job Description

The University of Northampton is committed to making a positive impact through education, creating opportunities, and driving social change. Since achieving university status in 2005, we've built a reputation as an ambitious, inclusive institution, with a focus on widening participation and promoting social mobility.


As outlined in our 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, we are committed to four key priorities: our staff, student experience, teaching and learning, and research, all underpinned by our purpose to deliver social impact. The University also contributes over 300 million annually to the local economy, reinforcing our role as a catalyst for sustainable growth in Northamptonshire.


We are seeking an outstanding individual to join our senior leadership team as Director of Marketing & Student Recruitment. Reporting to the Deputy Vice Chancellor & Chief Operating Officer, Becky Bradshaw, and as a key member of the University Leadership Team, the Director will lead the University's student recruitment, marketing, and outreach strategy. This is a high-impact leadership role, crucial to shaping the University's global presence, enhancing its reputation, and achieving its strategic goals.



The role of Director of Marketing & Student Recruitment is key to the University's future performance, growth, differentiation and purpose. Operating with credibility, experience and confidence, the post holder will define the marketing and student recruitment strategy and lead business areas including:


Marketing Brand development and management Home recruitment Schools and colleges liaison Social media Web development

Essential:

Proven track record in developing and delivering successful marketing and recruitment strategies. Senior leadership experience within a complex organisation, managing large, multi-disciplinary teams. Demonstrable experience of leading digital and technological change within marketing and recruitment functions. Strong strategic planning capability with the ability to translate strategy into operational delivery. Skilled in building effective relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.

Desirable:

Experience of delivering cost efficiencies without compromising service quality. Experience in developing and applying data strategies to drive performance and continuous improvement.
This role sits at the heart of the University's Marketing and Student Recruitment department -- a dynamic team responsible for shaping how we present ourselves to the world and how we attract future students. The department covers a wide range of functions, including marketing, brand and digital communications, UK student recruitment, and schools and colleges engagement.


As the Director, you will drive the development of innovative, inclusive, and insight-led strategies that reflect the University's values and strategic priorities. Your focus will be on delivering effective, data-driven campaigns and outreach that support our ambition to widen participation, promote social mobility, and attract a diverse and talented student population. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity with reach across the institution and beyond.


Perrett Laver is supporting us with our search and recruitment efforts for this exciting opportunity. If you are ready to lead with purpose, creativity, and impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.


To learn more about this opportunity, please visit: https://perrettlaver.com/university-of-northampton-appointment-of-director-of-student-recruitment-and-marketing/


For details on how to apply, please visit https://PLusPortal.PerrettLaver.com quoting reference 7990.


For informal enquiries, please contact Eljoh Balajadia at Eljoh.Balajadia@perrettlaver.com or +44 (0)20 3928 7375.


The closing date for applications is Tuesday 26 August 2025



At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

Inclusivity

: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.

Sustainability

: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.

Aspiration

: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.

Trust

: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.


All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process. The University is open to considering Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, provided that the eligibility criteria of the points-based immigration system are met.


We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.


The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion


Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

Creating an Inclusive Environment:

Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.

Supporting Students and Staff:

Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.

Tackling Inequalities:

Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON's Major Commitments:

Disability Confident Standalone Pledge IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON