Assistant Director (Global Partnerships)

About the Job

Interview Date: 10 March 2025

The Assistant Director (Global Partnerships) plays an integral role in the delivery of the Global Engagement Strategy by building and maintaining a portfolio of sustainable partnerships that enhance the reputation of UON, align with institutional values, generate income, and provide opportunities for students and staff.

Working closely with key internal and external stakeholders, the post holder will lead the Global Partnerships Team in ensuring University KPIs are delivered, Faculty strategic ambitions are realised, and that partnerships are effectively developed, managed and monitored. The post leads on the development, management, and monitoring of the University’s portfolio of strategic, transnational and UK based education partnerships, and ensuring that partnerships adhere to all internal and external regulatory requirements and key University business processes. 

By leading and managing the Global Partnerships Team in building and maintaining relationships with all stakeholders, the post holder maintains further responsibility for the management of a range of other collaborative activities which include student and staff exchange, articulation and student progression.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

About You 

You will have experience of successful strategic planning and delivery in partnership management, a sound understanding of relevant professional, legal, and regulatory requirements related to UK and international HE partnership management and relevant experience of quality assurance, risk management and regulatory oversight in the higher education sector. You will have a proven track record of building and maintaining positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders while also successfully delivering a variety of projects.

You will have excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to present to and influence a wide range of stakeholders including senior leadership committees. Experience of and ability to react to developments in the global higher education environment and cultural awareness are essential.

You will be able to strategically manage your workload and that of your team, with the ability to think creatively and problem solve to achieve objectives. You will have effective leadership skills and a desire to support and develop your team while meeting the University’s core values of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications 

Essential;

• Educated to degree level, equivalent qualification or commensurate experience.

Desirable;

• Professional or postgraduate qualification in a related discipline.

Faculty/Department 

The Global Partnerships Team sits within the department of Global Engagement. The Global Partnerships Team is responsible for building and maintaining a portfolio of sustainable partnerships both within and outside the UK, that enhance the reputation of UON, align with institutional values, generate income, and provide opportunities for students and staff.

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

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

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.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include:

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
2. Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
3. Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON’s Major Commitments:

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON