Position Overview:
This is an exciting leadership opportunity at a prestigious, research-intensive institution, Newcastle University, which prides itself on delivering top-quality teaching, fostering research excellence, and playing a key role in driving economic, social, and cultural progress in the North East of England. The university is seeking a Head of International Recruitment Operations to spearhead efforts in managing international student recruitment operations, driving the recruitment and conversion of global talent, and supporting the University’s internationalisation strategies.

This role is central to ensuring that prospective international students receive exceptional support throughout their journey-from initial inquiry to enrolment. It also involves fostering valuable relationships with international recruitment partners, ensuring streamlined and efficient operations, and contributing to the strategic leadership of the university’s International Office.

Advice on Applying (from an International Education Perspective):
If you’re passionate about international education and fostering global connections in higher education, this position offers an incredible opportunity to make a difference for both students and the university. As the Head of International Recruitment Operations, you’ll help shape the university’s outreach to international students and support its overarching internationalisation goals.

1. Demonstrate Your Understanding of the International Higher Education Ecosystem:

Highlight your knowledge of global student mobility trends, international recruitment, and the unique challenges faced by international students. Emphasise your ability to create tailored strategies that resonate with the diverse cultural needs of students and align with institutional goals.

1. Showcase Your Operations and Leadership Expertise:

The university is looking for someone with proven experience in operational management, particularly in a high-volume and fast-paced environment. Outline examples of managing end-to-end recruitment processes or operational systems. Share stories of how you’ve successfully led teams, improved efficiencies, and motivated others to meet and exceed goals.

1. Highlight Data-Driven Decision-Making and Analytical Clarity:

This role requires synthesising complex data and scenarios into actionable insights. Share specific examples of when you used data analysis to inform decision-making, set benchmarks, or improve key operational outcomes. Demonstrate your ability to present data clearly and to diverse audiences, including senior management and external stakeholders.

1. Illustrate Your Passion for Supporting Global Talent:

Connections with prospective international students often involve ensuring they feel supported, valued, and well-informed. Share instances where you’ve developed creative or empathetic solutions to support international applicants and recruitment partners. Highlight your cultural awareness and ability to engage with diverse perspectives.

1. Application Tip – Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:

Ensure your application explicitly matches the criteria mentioned in the person specification provided on the university’s website. Describe how your skills, experiences, and achievements align with Newcastle University’s goals, priorities, and focus on internationalisation. Use evidence-based examples to make a strong case for your candidacy.

1. Plan Ahead for the Interview:

If selected, interviews will be held in person on the 7th or 8th of August 2025 (with exceptions for extenuating circumstances). Prepare well in advance by familiarising yourself with Newcastle’s internationalisation strategies and envisaging how you could contribute as part of the leadership team.

Next Steps:
If you’re ready to apply, reach out to Eleanor Shotton for an informal discussion about the role via eleanor.shotton@newcastle.ac.uk. This is an excellent opportunity to understand the finer details of the position and ask any questions.

To formally apply, submit your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should clearly show how you meet the person specification for the role, which can be accessed on the Newcastle University website via the “Apply” button. Be thorough and thoughtful in aligning your application to the advertised criteria.

Good luck, and we look forward to seeing how you can help shape the future of international student recruitment at Newcastle University!