Main duties and responsibilities
We are seeking an exceptional and visionary leader to join our senior leadership team as Associate Director of Student Life. This pivotal role leads the development and delivery of an ambitious Student Life agenda that enhances wellbeing, belonging, engagement, employability and graduate success. Working at the heart of the University’s strategic mission, you will play a critical role in ensuring students receive an outstanding and transformative experience.
Reporting to the Director of Student Life and Library Services, you will provide strategic leadership across a broad portfolio of student-facing services, driving improvements in outcomes, retention, progression, graduate employment and satisfaction. You will work collaboratively with academic and professional service leaders, the Students’ Union and external partners to create an inclusive, supportive and vibrant student community, and will deputise for the Director when required.
About the Role
As an Associate Director, you will lead strategic development of initiatives across wellbeing, belonging, engagement, employability and graduate outcomes, championing a holistic approach to academic, personal and professional success. You will drive institutional performance against Graduate Outcomes, NSS, TEF and retention/progression indicators, while overseeing and enhancing wellbeing provision including mental health, counselling, disability support, chaplaincy, financial wellbeing and student advice. You will develop strategies that strengthen employability and career readiness, foster a culture of student partnership where student voice informs decision‑making, and represent DMU externally as an ambassador for student success and inclusion.
About You
We are seeking an inspirational leader with significant higher education student services experience. You will bring membership of a relevant professional body such as AMOSSHE, senior leadership experience across wellbeing, careers, student advice, engagement or support, and proven success designing and implementing strategies that improve experience, wellbeing, employability, belonging and retention. You will have extensive knowledge of the student lifecycle and the challenges faced by diverse student populations, experience managing large budgets, complex services and multidisciplinary teams, a strong track record of strategic change and organisational improvement, and a commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and student‑centred practice.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to shape the strategic direction of student experience at senior level and make a lasting difference to students’ lives. You will join a collaborative and ambitious leadership team committed to outstanding outcomes, an inclusive community and continuous improvement.
Working Arrangements
The University operates a hybrid model. As a senior leader, visibility and engagement across campus are essential, with a minimum of three days per week on campus. Occasional evening and weekend working will be required.
Contact
To view the JDPS, please click here
Interviews will be held 25th August.
For more information about the role, please reach out to Natasha Kukadia - natasha.kukadia@dmu.ac.uk