We are the University of Cumbria, for and from Cumbria and our localities, rooted in serving our communities, with people, place and partnership at our heart. 

Now is a very exciting time to be joining us because we are delivering a new "Towards 2030" strategic plan focused on making the most of our three most valuable assets; People, Place and Partnerships, to become a catalyst for economic well-being for our region, nationally and internationally. 

In this pivotal leadership role, you will guide a service that sits at the heart of the student journey - supporting learners from their first steps in Higher Education to their transition into successful, meaningful graduate destinations. You’ll take ownership of both the strategic direction and the day-to-day delivery of our employability offer, ensuring it is high-quality, innovative, and aligned with the University’s vision for 2030.

You’ll oversee a talented, committed team who deliver everything from personalised career guidance and sector informed employability projects to events, digital resources, partnerships, and initiatives designed to boost confidence, skills and outcomes. 

Working collaboratively across the institution, you’ll influence strategic planning, contribute to key communities of practice and working groups, and provide expert advice to academic partners so employability is embedded across programmes and aligned with our Graduate Attributes. You’ll also play an active role in national networks, helping to shape good practice across the sector while ensuring the University stays ahead of emerging trends.

As a visible and trusted leader within Student Services, you’ll cultivate a culture of excellence in student experience, customer service, staff development, and wellbeing - ensuring your team has the support, skills and confidence to deliver at their best. Working alongside other team managers, you’ll also contribute business planning, ensuring that the Student Services directorate is positioned to grow and adapt to future challenges.

This role is perfect for someone who is:

•    Passionate about student and graduate success.

•    Motivated by strategic leadership and innovation.

•    Skilled at building strong relationships and influencing at all levels.

•    Experienced in delivering high-quality services underpinned by data and professional standards.

•    Energised by collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement.

If you’re ready to lead a service that truly makes a difference and to help shape the future of employability across the University, we’d love to hear from you.

Hybrid working arrangements can be supported for this role in line with business need.

Informal Enquiries: James Stephens | Head of Library Services | james.stephens@cumbria.ac.uk | 01228279510

We offer a comprehensive set of staff benefits which includes a competitive salary, 35 days holiday plus bank holidays, hybrid working in line with business need, and an excellent pension scheme with 8% employer contribution. 

For more information about the University of Cumbria, click here.