Manchester Metropolitan University is a great university in one of the best student cities in the world. We advance knowledge to benefit society and make higher education accessible to those with a passion for success. We create change through outstanding research and excellent teaching and support our region and its economy by empowering and enriching our students, colleagues and wider community.

We are seeking to appoint our Senior Deputy Director of Global Engagement to provide industry-leading operational oversight for the International Office – so that systems, processes and people deliver high performance in international student recruitment and global engagement. The job holder will focus on translating strategy into delivery and results. You will confidently act on senior committees/boards as required.

What you will lead and deliver

• Transforming the university’s international strategy into clear operational plans, key performance indicators and delivery roadmaps.
• Drive international recruitment and transfer performance through robust forecasting, pipeline management and ROI analysis – ensuring progress towards 2030 goals.
• Manage the day-to-day business of a high-performing international office, incorporating repeatable processes and a customer-focused service ethos across the inquiry-to-registration journey.
• Optimize budget and resources in the year; Manage agents and suppliers with commercial discipline and realize benefits.
• Lead senior managers, build a culture of performance, and enhance university collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Horizon scanning policy, regulatory/visa change, and competitor moves; Maintain future planning calendars to remain flexible in priority markets.

About you

• You will be a business-minded, data-driven leader who thrives in a sales and operations environment.
• Significant senior management experience in an international office or business environment closely related to managing international sales/recruitment functions.
• Proven success in managing a sales environment with strong B2B relationship management and a proven track record of achieving goals.
• Knowledge of international recruiting pipelines, conversion tools, and agent/partner ecosystems.
• Strong analytical ability and evidence-based decision making.
• Organized change leadership, high emotional intelligence and the ability to build motivated, high-performing teams.

This is an unparalleled opportunity for the right individual to play a critical role in the university’s progress, building our international profile and reputation to help deliver our ambitious vision and agenda over the next decade.

More information and how to apply
For a confidential conversation, please contact Matt Dean, Director of Global Engagement: m.dean@mmu.ac.uk.

Applications must be submitted via our recruitment system and must include a full CV and cover letter stating your interest in the role and details of how your knowledge, skills and experience match the essential criteria required.

The deadline for applications is Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Interviews will be conducted on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

About Manchester Met
We have been proudly driving progress for more than two centuries. As one of the UK’s largest and most popular universities, we are a force for good, committed to delivering outstanding research and excellent teaching. We are more than just a university, we are a place where ambitious people come together as a diverse and inclusive community to make meaningful connections. Where world-class facilities come together with exceptional minds to improve lives through innovation. We welcome those who are committed, talented and hardworking. People who believe in our values ​​and move like us to achieve common goals.

Our community of more than 5,100 colleagues works in close partnership every day to create positive change on a regional, national and global level.

Build a role with purpose, in an environment designed to unleash your potential. Be part of Manchester Met. Be proud of Manchester Met. Let’s change lives together.

Manchester Metropolitan University promotes an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equality and celebrates diversity. We value our diverse innovation workforce and the diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black and Asian backgrounds, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities and LGBTQ+ people.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including mixed and tailored timetables, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusion includes mentoring programs, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to people with a disability who apply for the post and meet the essential criteria as stated in the attached job description for this vacancy.