Overview: Academic Partnerships Manager Role at Birmingham Newman University

Are you an experienced administrator with a background in higher education and a passion for fostering academic partnerships? Birmingham Newman University is seeking a capable and detail-oriented individual to join its team as an Academic Partnerships Manager. This is a full-time position (37 hours per week) and is pivotal to the success of the Collaborative Provision Unit, which oversees the university’s relationships with its validation and franchise partners.

The primary focus of the role is providing efficient administrative management to the operation of franchise partnerships, ensuring seamless communication and records management. It’s an excellent opportunity for a candidate with prior experience in managing operations in the Further or Higher Education sector to contribute to the university’s mission of academic collaboration and excellence.

Advice for Applicants from an International Education Perspective

When applying for this role, it is important to tailor your application to reflect both your understanding of the UK education system and the significance of international and collaborative education partnerships. Here’s some advice to help you stand out:

1. Highlight Relevant Experience:

Showcase your experience in administrative management within a higher or further education setting. Be specific about your achievements in areas such as partnership coordination, managing validation or accreditation processes, and record-keeping. If you have international experience, make sure to emphasize your ability to navigate the complexities of working with multiple stakeholders across borders.

1. Understand Academic Partnerships:

Gain insights into how academic partnerships (franchise or validation models) work within the UK and internationally. Demonstrate that you understand the challenges and opportunities in ensuring these partnerships comply with academic and regulatory standards.

1. Cultural and Global Awareness:

Given the collaborative nature of this role, highlight your cultural competence and ability to work with institutions that may differ in their educational frameworks. If you’re familiar with international quality assurance frameworks or have worked with global academic partners, mention it.

1. Demonstrate Key Competencies:

The university is looking for an efficient, detail-oriented, and organized manager. In your application, provide examples that reflect these skills, along with your ability to communicate effectively, solve problems, and maintain high-quality standards in your work.

1. Express Your Commitment to Newman University’s Values:

Review the university’s mission and values, and articulate why you are drawn to working at Newman University. This could be your passion for fostering academic collaboration, your dedication to inclusivity, or your alignment with the institution’s ethos of lifelong learning.

1. Follow Application Instructions Carefully:

– Visit Newman University’s website by clicking the ‘Apply’ button in the job advertisement. Download the application form and ensure it is completed comprehensively.
– Include any attachments required, such as a cover letter tailored to the role. This is your chance to provide a compelling narrative about why you are the ideal candidate.

1. Prepare for Informal and Formal Discussions:

– Informal enquiries are encouraged, so consider reaching out to Mike Harris-Hill (m.harris-hill@staff.newman.ac.uk) with specific questions about the role. This not only shows initiative but also helps you understand the key expectations of the position.
– Be prepared for the formal interview process by researching the university, its partnerships, and its approach to education. Familiarize yourself with the UK Quality Code for Higher Education, which governs collaborative provision.

Important Dates and Benefits

• Closing Date for Applications: 3rd September 2025. Submit your completed application form before the deadline to recruitment@newman.ac.uk.
• Interview Date: To be confirmed.
• Employee Benefits: The position comes with significant benefits, including 35 days of annual leave (pro rata for part-time roles), a pension scheme, free on-site parking, discounted travel options, and ongoing staff development opportunities.

Equality and Accessibility
Birmingham Newman University is an inclusive and Equal Opportunity Employer. They welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage diversity within their workforce.

Find More Information
The university’s campus is located at Genners Lane, Bartley Green, Birmingham, West Midlands, B32 3NT. For further details about staff benefits, visit their staff benefits webpage or contact the Human Resources Department.

Make a meaningful impact by joining the Collaborative Provision Unit at Birmingham Newman University, ensuring the success of academic partnerships that shape future leaders and thinkers