Interim Head of UK Student Recruitment, Marketing and Campaigns, UK University

Anderson Quigley is delighted to be partnering with a well known UK University on the appointment of an Interim Head of UK Student Recruitment, Marketing and Campaigns.

Practicalities:

This is a 6-month contract starting ideally in early July (no later than the end of July). The role is full-time, though 0.9 FTE (9 day fortnight) may be considered. On-site presence is required 2–3 days per week, with flexibility for events and open days. A competitive day rate is offered (inside IR35), with reasonable travel and overnight stay costs factored in.

Role Overview:

This is a pivotal interim appointment at a critical point in the university’s student recruitment cycle. Reporting to the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, the role provides strategic leadership across UK student recruitment, marketing campaigns (UK and international), applicant engagement and CRM, events, schools liaison, outreach, and enquiries. With ambitious clearing targets, this year’s cycle brings both significant challenge and opportunity.

You will lead the delivery of conversion plans and clearing campaigns with clarity, pace, and creativity, overseeing a well-resourced team of c.30, including two senior managers, and managing a seven-figure marketing and recruitment budget to ensure targets are met.

As the university embeds a refreshed structure following recent change, your interim leadership will provide much-needed stability. We are seeking a values-led leader who can provide clear direction while motivating and energising colleagues. Emotional intelligence, resilience and a collaborative mindset will be key, as will the ability to bring structure, optimism and agility during change.

Essential Criteria:

You will be a highly experienced marketing and student recruitment leader with a strong track record in UK HE Student Recruitment. Essential to the role is previous experience of leading student recruitment and campaigns teams, ideally at Head of, Assistant Director or Director level, with responsibility for managing seven-figure budgets and delivering measurable impact.

Experience across the full marketing funnel, from awareness to conversion, is key, as is evidence of effective team leadership during periods of change. This is not a development opportunity – we require a tried and tested results focused leader who can bring immediate credibility, experience and impact.

Next Steps:

Please contact Eva Tomka or Akhil Yerneni ASAP to receive a full JD and to discuss your interest further.