About the Job
Interview Date: 23 June 2026
The Global Partnerships Development Manager plays an integral role in the delivery of the University’s Global Recruitment and Engagement strategy.
Responsible to the Assistant Director – Global Partnerships, the post holder will maintain existing partnerships, while leading the development of new collaborative partnerships, ensure departmental strategy KPIs are delivered to target, and Faculty strategic ambitions are realised, whilst ensuring partnerships are sustainable, effectively managed and monitored.
The post holder provides expertise, support and communications on strategically focussed business cases while working with internal and external stakeholders on the development of UK and international partnership proposals and agreements, including risk management matters and the management of expectations.
The post holder will
1. Lead on the development and project management of strategic UK and international partnerships that align with UON values, generate income and provide opportunities for staff and students.
2. Work closely with the Assistant Director – Global Partnerships to ensure partnership developments are aligned to the University’s broader interests, are consistent with all University operational policies and systems, and to the required quality standards, while operating in financial surplus.
3. Provide leadership and coordinate business development plans, financial business plans and work with the Global Partnerships Officer on the completion of partnership due diligence that meets UON standards.
4. Support the University’s quality assurance processes leading to the approval of UK and international partnerships and support the transition from successful approval to the operational management by the Global Partnerships Managers.
5. Lead on coordinating application processes for international partnerships that require in-country Ministry and/or other bodies approval in a range of countries overseas.
6. The post holder will must be willing to travel in the UK and overseas.
About You
The University of Northampton is an ambitious university whose priorities are rooted in our commitment to the difference we make supporting aspiration, creating opportunities, delivering impact.
The university seeks candidates with experience in building strategic partnerships, likely in higher education, and a commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and high-quality education. As Global Partnerships Development Manager you will lead the development of new education partnerships for the university in the UK and internationally, with a focus on key markets for expanding our reach of transnational education.
The postholder will ensure new collaborative developments follow early stage assessment including due diligence processes, completion of risk assessment, business case development in consultation with our faculties, oversight of governance and institutional approval processes; and successful support and ongoing management post approval while working with our Global Partnership Managers.
You will be aware of global trends in transnational educational developments within Higher Education, have knowledge of in-country approval processes and policy development.
The Person
7. You will hold an honours degree (or equivalent) and have experience in international partnership development or TNE within Higher Education.
8. You will be a highly organised professional and be able to build effective professional relationships with a variety of stakeholder.
9. You will have experience of working collaboratively across academic and professional teams, and external stakeholders.
10. You are able to demonstrate an understanding of risk, compliance requirements, and financial understanding.
11. You will be able to demonstrate excellent communication, data management skills, attention to detail, coordination of multiple projects simultaneously, and be willing to travel in the UK and overseas.
12. You will have an understanding of cultural awareness, while being committed to take forward the university’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Qualifications
Essential
13. Educated to degree level, equivalent qualification or commensurate experience.
Desirable
14. Professional or postgraduate qualification in a related discipline.
Department
The Global Partnerships team forms part of the Directorate of Global Engagement which supports the recruitment of international students to the university and facilitates collaborative educational partnerships in the UK and overseas. The Global Partnerships team currently works with partners in the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Far East and is set to expand its global reach through strategic developments.
About Us
At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.
Our People
Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.
Our Values
15. Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
16. Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
17. Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
18. Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals
19. Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.
Right to Work
All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process. The University is open to considering Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, provided that the eligibility criteria of the points-based immigration system are met
Equality
We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.