Director of Newcastle Global

About the job

Newcastle University is a world-class, research-intensive institution with a strong civic mission and a growing global footprint. As an internationally connected university, we are committed to addressing global challenges through outstanding research, education and meaningful partnerships.

We are now seeking an exceptional and forward-thinking leader to take on the role of Director of Newcastle Global, a pivotal position shaping our international strategy, partnerships and growth.

Reporting to the Director of Marketing, Global Recruitment and Admissions, and working in close partnership with the Pro Vice Chancellor (Global), you will lead Newcastle Global, previously known as the International Office, a diverse team of around 60 colleagues.

This is a high-profile leadership role with responsibility for delivering the University’s global ambitions across international recruitment, transnational education, global partnerships and mobility. You will play a critical role in strengthening our global reputation, expanding our international networks, and identifying opportunities for sustainable growth in an increasingly complex and competitive global environment.

As Director of Newcastle Global, you will provide strategic leadership for the University’s international activity, shaping and delivering a coherent global strategy aligned with institutional priorities. Build and lead a high-performing, internationally distributed team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and innovation. Develop and manage a portfolio of high-value global partnerships with universities, governments, sponsors and sector organisations. Drive international recruitment and market growth through insight-led strategy, identifying emerging opportunities and mitigating risk. Lead the development of transnational education initiatives, global campuses and student and staff mobility programmes.

You will be a strategic and credible leader with experience operating at a senior level in a complex, international environment. You will bring a strong track record of leading international strategy, partnerships and growth within a large, complex organisation. Experience of building and managing high-value partnerships across global markets, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders. A deep understanding of global trends, geopolitics and market dynamics, with the ability to translate insight into actionable strategy. Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire teams and operate effectively at Executive and Board level and a collaborative, outward-facing approach, with the confidence to represent the organisation on an international stage.

Experience within higher education is beneficial but not essential; we welcome applications from candidates with transferable experience from other global, partnership-driven sectors.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the global future of a leading UK university at a time of significant change and opportunity. You will join a collaborative and ambitious leadership team, working at the heart of an institution committed to making a difference locally and globally.
The role requires regular international travel.

For an informal discussion please reach out to Nicola Rawlins, Director of Marketing, Global Recruitment and Admissions. Nicola.rawlins@newcastle.ac.uk

Reports to: Director of Marketing, Global Recruitment and Admissions
Works closely with: Pro‑Vice‑Chancellor (Global), Executive Board, Faculties, Global Deans

For the full job description and person specification, please follow the link to apply which will take you to Newcastle University vacancies page.

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.

We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.