Overview
Birmingham City University (BCU) is a dynamic, forward-thinking institution at the heart of a vibrant city. As a STEAM-powered Civic University, we are committed to delivering transformative education and impactful research that contributes to inclusive economic and social development. As part of our Strategy 2030, we are now seeking a Director of Engagement.
This is a senior leadership role that requires vision, influence, and the ability to deliver impact at scale. You will lead a team of experienced professionals, set strategic direction, and ensure high performance across all areas of engagement. Acting as a visible ambassador for the University, you will represent us regionally and nationally, forging partnerships that enhance reputation, visibility, and influence. You will also provide expert advice to the Executive Team, ensuring engagement activity is evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with institutional priorities. At its core, this role is about creating opportunities, for students, staff, communities, and partners, while positioning the University as a driver of positive change and innovation.
The full-time starting salary is normally £81,836.00 per annum, with progression available in post to £92,593.00 per annum.
Grade: K
Permanent, full-time role.
Responsibilities
* Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of the University’s engagement activity across business, community, and alumni relations.
* Shape and deliver a compelling engagement strategy that reflects the University’s mission as Birmingham’s anchor institution, ensuring partnerships generate civic good, enhance student outcomes, and support sustainable income growth.
* Lead the development of initiatives across a wide portfolio—from advancing business and industry collaboration to community initiatives and lifelong alumni relationships—aiming to build meaningful, long-term connections that benefit the University and society.
* Represent the University regionally and nationally, forging partnerships that enhance reputation, visibility, and influence.
* Provide expert advice to the Executive Team and ensure engagement activity is evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with institutional priorities.
Qualifications and experience
* Substantial experience of strategic leadership in engagement, ideally in a large or complex setting.
* Strong understanding of civic engagement and the role of universities in driving local and regional development.
* Excellent skills in partnership building, influencing, and negotiation.
* Experience in or with the higher education sector is desirable; knowledge of policy agendas such as levelling up, social mobility, and economic development is advantageous.
Employment details
* Employment type: Full-time
* Seniority level: Director
* Job function: Engagement (higher education)
* Salary: as stated above
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Birmingham City University is deeply committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity at all levels in the organisation, and to addressing underrepresentation in our workforce to ensure we are truly representative of the community we serve. We welcome applications from applicants from all backgrounds and communities for this role, and particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic applicants.
The University is proudly Disability Confident. This means amongst other things that we commit to offering a guaranteed interview to disabled applicants who fully meet the essential criteria for each role.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds, with particular emphasis on inclusive practices to ensure representation across all groups.
Job Description
The appointed candidate will normally be employed through our subsidiary company BCU Support Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Birmingham City University. Appointees with prior LGPS membership who wish to enter the LGPS scheme will be able to do so and will be employed by Birmingham City University directly.
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