Job Description Rewrite from an International Education Perspective

About the Role: Strategic Marketing Partner at the University of Exeter
The University of Exeter, a prestigious Russell Group institution based in the UK, is seeking an experienced and visionary Strategic Marketing Partner to play a key leadership role within the External Engagement and Global (EEG) Directorate. This is a 12-month, fixed-term position commencing in January 2026 and offers hybrid working arrangements, allowing flexibility to work both on campus and remotely.

As a Strategic Marketing Partner, you will act as a driving force behind the university’s global marketing and recruitment efforts, with a focus on the on-campus programmes offered by Exeter’s faculties. This is an extraordinary opportunity to influence faculty-level decisions while helping to shape strategies designed to boost global visibility and drive international student growth. Your work will directly impact the university’s reputation, enhance its ability to attract students from diverse areas, and contribute to Exeter’s broader global engagement targets.

Job Scope
In this role, you will collaborate with the Faculty Executive Group and other key stakeholders to define and deliver comprehensive marketing strategies that align with faculty needs. You will also oversee substantial projects across marketing, student recruitment, partnership development, communications, events, and study abroad activities. Your responsibilities will include analysing international market trends, building partnerships, managing teams, and delivering impactful initiatives while fostering cross-departmental collaboration within the institution.

This position provides an excellent opportunity for professionals who possess strategic marketing and communications expertise, with a successful record of driving internationalisation in higher education or related fields.

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Advice for Applicants with an International Education Background

If you’re an applicant from the international education sector-or someone with relevant expertise who aspires to excel in a globally focused role-this opportunity presents a perfect fit for your skills. Here’s how you can leverage your experience to strengthen your candidacy and effectively apply for this role:

1. Highlight International Recruitment Expertise:

Your ability to attract and recruit students from diverse international markets will be central to this role. Showcase any past achievements related to growing international student enrolment, setting up cross-border partnerships, or creating strategies tailored to global audiences. Be sure to elaborate on how your work influenced organisational objectives positively.

1. Emphasise Data-Driven Strategy Development:

The position requires interpreting global trends and conducting competitor analysis to inform marketing plans. When applying, emphasise your experience in evidence-led decision-making and data analysis to deliver effective, internationally competitive marketing and recruitment strategies.

1. Showcase Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Skills:

Building relationships across cultures is a key skill for this role. Detail any history of engaging with multicultural audiences, collaborating with international stakeholders, or managing global teams. Highlight your communication and project management capabilities to demonstrate your fit.

1. Demonstrate Understanding of the Higher Education Landscape:

Knowledge of international student mobility and regional market dynamics (e.g., South Asia, East Asia, North America, etc.) will be key to excelling in this role. If applicable, showcase your familiarity with current trends within higher education, including the challenges and opportunities in global student recruitment.

1. Position Yourself as a Leader:

The role involves guiding teams through impactful change and strategic projects, so leadership skills are particularly important. Be sure to provide examples of motivating teams, delivering on objectives efficiently, and managing complex projects in diverse settings.

1. Understand Exeter’s Global Ambitions:

Make sure to research the University of Exeter’s position in the UK higher education landscape. Highlight how your expertise aligns with its strategic goals for global reputation, international recruitment, and student experience. Familiarity with Exeter’s faculties and programmes will give you an edge.

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Why You Should Apply to Exeter

The University of Exeter is a thriving academic institution renowned for its research, education quality, and picturesque campuses in Exeter and Cornwall. Joining Exeter means you’ll be contributing directly to a forward-thinking, globally engaged university with ambitious targets for attracting international students. Additionally, Exeter offers excellent benefits tailored to support your work-life balance, professional growth, and personal well-being.

Perks of Working at Exeter Include:

• Generous annual leave (41 days per year)
• Flexible working options
• Access to stunning campus environments located in the South West of England
• On-site fitness facilities and cycle-to-work schemes
• Best-in-class parental leave policies, including support for fertility treatments

To Apply
Take the time to carefully review the full Job Description and Person Specification. Adapt your application to showcase how your international experience and skills align with the strategic priorities of the role. Include specific examples that reflect how you could contribute to Exeter’s global marketing and recruitment objectives.

If you would like further information or informal guidance, please contact Lucie Burnett, the Head of Campaigns at Exeter, by emailing l.burnett@exeter.ac.uk.

Interviews for shortlisted candidates are expected to take place in early December