Job Description Rewrite: International Officer for the Middle East, North Africa & Pakistan

What the Job Is About

The University of Surrey, a globally respected institution committed to transformative education and research, is seeking a dynamic and passionate individual to join its International Student Recruitment team as the International Officer for the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan. This position presents an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the university’s efforts to attract talented students from diverse backgrounds in this region.

This role is centered on fostering relationships with stakeholders in the region, including international schools and recruitment agents, representing the University of Surrey at various events, and helping potential students discover the exceptional educational opportunities available at Surrey. You will also collaborate on strategic plans to increase applications and enrolments from the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan, making a direct impact on the university’s global reach and reputation.

This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about international education, have experience in student recruitment, and relish the opportunity to engage with global audiences. A significant portion of your work will involve international travel (up to 12 weeks annually), allowing you to immerse yourself in the cultures of the region and deliver results in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Advice for Applicants

What Makes You a Strong Candidate:
To thrive in this role, you should have prior experience in international student recruitment or a similar field, with knowledge of both the commercial and cultural aspects of the sector. Confidence in public speaking and delivering impactful presentations will be crucial, as you’ll often be representing the University of Surrey at major events and gatherings.

Additionally, strong organisational skills are essential as you’ll be managing complex projects, scheduling recruitment events, and developing relationships with key stakeholders in your designated regions. Proficiency in IT tools is another vital skill, as you’ll need these to track and communicate effectively with prospective students, recruitment agents, and international schools.

As the position requires frequent travel, you must hold a valid passport and be comfortable with travel commitments. Your understanding of cultural diversity and sensitivity will be central to building trust and strengthening connections with students, families, and partners from different backgrounds.

Tips from an International Education Perspective:

1. Show Your Understanding of Regional Dynamics: Familiarise yourself with the educational needs, cultural nuances, and recruitment trends of the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan. Demonstrating this knowledge in your application and interview will set you apart.
2. Highlight Your Experience: Share specific examples of how you’ve successfully attracted and engaged international students in your previous roles. If you’ve cultivated partnerships with schools, navigated regional communication challenges, or organised high-impact events abroad, make sure to feature these accomplishments in your CV and cover letter.
3. Illustrate Your Passion for Global Education: The University of Surrey champions diversity and inclusion. Show your enthusiasm for bridging cultural gaps and offering students from around the world access to life-transforming educational opportunities.
4. Focus on Professional Skills: Highlight technical skills, event management capabilities, and your ability to build collaborative networks across borders. Include any experience with CRM tools, analytics platforms, or digital marketing that supports effective student recruitment.
5. Tailor Your Application: While the position aims to grow enrolments in specific regions, the role will likely require flexibility and adaptability to broader university needs. Ensure your cover letter reflects this willingness to contribute to other international markets as opportunities arise.

Why You Should Apply

As part of the University of Surrey team, you’ll be joining a community of professionals dedicated to excellence. You’ll enjoy a competitive salary, yearly incremental pay rises, generous pension contributions, and a wide range of benefits including access to campus leisure facilities, flexible working options, and family-friendly benefits such as an on-site nursery.

Beyond the material perks, you’ll be supporting students on their journey to access world-class education that can transform their lives, while also embodying the university’s vision of becoming a leading institution on the global stage.

How to Apply

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your CV along with a tailored cover letter explaining why you would be the ideal fit as the International Officer for the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan. Show how your skills, experience, and passion align with the University of Surrey’s global mission, and address the key responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the description.

The University values diversity and inclusion and strongly encourages applicants from under-represented groups, including Black, Asian, minority ethnic individuals, and people with disabilities, to apply.

Interviews will be held on Friday 21st November, so ensure your application is submitted well in advance.

By applying for this role, you’ll be contributing to the University of Surrey’s ambition to transform lives and deliver world-class education that transcends borders. Best of luck!