The University of Reading is in search of a distinguished and highly accomplished candidate to helm its newly established Global Engagement Department and spearhead the execution of the institution’s novel Strategic Framework for Internationalisation and Global Engagement.
For nearly a century, the University of Reading has been a leading light in UK higher education, fostering a collaborative community of innovators and social change agents. We are deeply committed to addressing the world’s most pressing challenges together. Our institution is proud to be recognized as one of the UK’s premier research-intensive universities, ranking among the top 200 globally (172nd globally and 25th in the UK according to QS World University Rankings 2025). As a truly international entity, we navigate a competitive global landscape.
Our Strategic Plan for 2020-2026 outlines our mission to “challenge and transform the outlook of the students we educate, and improve the lives of our neighbours, the prospects for our country, and the future of our planet.” As we approach the Plan’s culmination in 2026 and move forward from our Centenary Year, our goal is to amplify our achievements, expand our student body, and enhance our global brand and profile. The Directorate of External Relations is pivotal in realizing this ambition, offering strategic guidance and integrated services in marketing, student recruitment and admissions, global engagement, brand building, fundraising, and communications, as well as stakeholder and reputation management. Central to the Directorate is the newly formed Global Engagement Department, which will consolidate our existing teams of professionals in Global Recruitment (International), Global Partnerships, and Study Abroad.
The Director of Global Engagement will lead in creating an adaptable and dynamic Global Engagement Department. This individual will play a crucial role in advancing our Strategic Framework for Internationalisation and Global Engagement, aiming to bolster the University’s global reputation with ambitious goals in student recruitment, partnerships, and mobility. With branch campuses in Malaysia and Africa, a joint Institute in China, and numerous TNE partnerships worldwide, the University is well-positioned to expand its global presence.
Reporting to the Director of External Engagement and working closely with the Pro Vice-Chancellor (International), the Director of Global Engagement will be an Associate Director within External Relations. The role entails significant responsibility, requiring close collaboration with a senior leadership team overseeing strategic and operational functions of the Directorate.
We seek a candidate with extensive experience in a similar capacity:
– You will be a strategic thinker with exceptional leadership skills in international higher education.
– You will be an effective communicator with outstanding interpersonal skills, capable of inspiring trust and confidence among diverse audiences and stakeholders.
– You will possess in-depth operational knowledge of Global Engagement activities, including international student recruitment, partnerships, mobility, and TNE, as well as a granular understanding of international education markets.
– You will be highly collaborative and driven, with a demonstrated history of cross-team (matrix) working, project leadership, and motivating teams and individuals.
For inquiries, please reach out to:
– Fiona Blair, Director of External Relations, at f.j.blair@reading.ac.uk
– Dr. Caroline Baylon, Pro-Vice Chancellor, International, at c.p.baylon@reading.ac.uk
Interviews are scheduled for 2 October 2024.
This role may qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route, in accordance with the applicable SOC code. Prospective applicants should ensure they meet the points requirement before applying. Additional information is available on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.
The University of Reading is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We support the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and promote LGBT equality. Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements are encouraged and will be considered in line with business needs