Student jobs

We are seeking to appoint a Compliance Officer for an immediate start. Reporting to the school's in-house Legal Advisor, you will ensure the school operates in full compliance with all statutory, regulatory, and internal policy requirements, promoting a culture of compliance across all areas of school activity.

This role is initially offered on a one-year fixed-term contract working term-time, plus INSET days and a further three weeks during the school holidays (38 weeks). The role also has part-time support provided by the Compliance Administrator.

Salary circa £63,000 per annum, depending on experience. This is based on a full-time equivalent annual salary of £75,000.

We will be shortlisting and interviewing as applications come in, so early applications are advised. Please note that we may appoint before the closing date.

To apply and find out more about the school and our attractive staff benefits package, please visit our dedicated recruitment page via the 'Apply' button.

Closing date: 9.00am on Tuesday, 21 April 2026.

Interviews: Monday, 27 April 2026.

Diversity – The School is fully committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. We have an established and representative staff Equality and Diversity Board to help drive forward positive change. A further Equality and Diversity Committee has recently been formed from our student population.

We are committed to attracting and retaining the very best staff, ensuring that our staff body reflects the diversity of our students and local community. Acknowledging a lack of ethnic diversity within our Support staff community, we particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates for this role. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the School may employ positive action where diverse candidates can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS, online checks and receipt of two satisfactory references.

We’re an award-winning charity running local learning centres in the heart of the communities where the young people we support live. Our centres provide a high-impact education programme which includes practical learning support, pastoral care, and motivational and confidence-building activities for young people aged 7-18. Our aim is to enable students from the least advantaged neighbourhoods to realise their ambitions and achieve their wonderful potential.

As the UK’s leading university access organisation, our staff team is helping over 50,000 young people each year at its 44 learning centres and extension projects across England and Scotland, and we plan to scale-up our provision to 50 centres over the coming years.

We are looking for graduates who will enjoy working each day with young people and who will thrive in a frontline, community-based, fast-paced and rewarding role. You will be taking up a permanent role as an Education Worker on IntoUniversity’s Graduate Scheme, helping to change the lives of young people. 

We believe that our Graduate Scheme is one of the most exciting in the charity sector, an excellent career opportunity with exceptional training and hands-on experience, opportunities for promotion, and the chance to work with young people and colleagues who will challenge and inspire you.

Locations: We have positions available in Bridlington
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Applications close: 9am 13th April 2026

Start date: 

As soon as possible 

Salary

£28,250 per year

What could my day look like?

The Education Worker role is a frontline, fast-paced and rewarding role where no two weeks will look the same. A typical day will have different activities, possibly spread between the IntoUniversity centre, partner schools and the offices of a corporate partner.

In the morning, you might be setting off with resources to run a workshop for sixth-form students in their secondary school. In the afternoon you may be setting up the classroom ahead of running Primary Academic Support for young people in your IntoUniversity centre. On other days, you may be travelling to a corporate partner to run a business simulation workshop for 15 year-olds or leading a group of final year primary school students on a campus visit for their graduation.

As an Education Worker, you’ll always be delivering the programme as part of your centre team, which means that any delivery is always a team effort. 

This is an exciting role in a unique organisation.  Our vision is to provide an outstanding experience for all UCL students and to be one of the best students’ unions in the UK and the world.  We aim to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for the better.

We are a registered charity employing over 150 career staff and 300 student staff, delivering a wide range of services and representative functions for UCL students. We have the widest portfolio of services of any student organisation in the country, managing UCL’s extracurricular programmes for sport, music, drama, dance, media, volunteering, academic societies and intercultural engagement; providing a wide range of fantastic social spaces; leading on student democracy and representation across UCL; and offering excellent student support services.

It's an exciting time to join our growing organisation as we lead the delivery of UCL’s groundbreaking new Student Life Strategy. This is enabling us to build more programmes to improve students’ mental and physical wellbeing, promote genuine equity for all, build students’ skills and confidence, develop their international connections and intercultural skills, and make a real contribution to our local community.

We support hybrid working. Excellent benefits including defined benefit pension scheme and generous holiday entitlement. We are proud of high levels of staff engagement and pride ourselves on being a great place to work. We will consider applications to work on a flexible and job share basis wherever possible. 

The role is full time and permanent. This role is based across our Bloomsbury and UCL East campus with flexibility to work from home on a 40/60 basis (40% working from the office).

We are looking for a Community Projects Coordinator (Community Research Initiative) to coordinate and support the further development of our diverse programme of extra-curricular student activity including our Research Volunteering and Pro Bono Research programmes.

Do you have experience in coordinating events, engaging volunteers, and creating meaningful opportunities for students? Do you excel at awareness‑raising, campaigning, or storytelling? If the answer is yes, then we want to hear from you.

Our ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of high‑quality student engagement, experience in building effective relationships with volunteers and stakeholders, and the ability to communicate confidently with people from a wide range of sectors, backgrounds, and cultures. They will be highly organised, adaptable, and motivated by working in a democratic, student‑led environment, with a clear commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

The Role

This is a pivotal new role at SUSU, leading the operational delivery of our vibrant student spaces across our three buildings on Highfield Campus. As Head of Operations, you’ll ensure our facilities are safe, compliant, well-maintained, and consistently deliver excellent service.

You’ll oversee room bookings and reception, technical event support, transport operations, and sustainability initiatives, keeping services running smoothly across a busy and diverse programme of over 1,500 bookings each year.

As SUSU’s lead competent person for Health & Safety, you’ll champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance across all activities, working closely with University stakeholders, contractors, and internal teams to drive continuous improvement.

No two days are the same — this is a fantastic opportunity to shape and enhance the student experience at scale.

About You

• Significant experience in soft facilities or operational management, including contracts and service delivery
• A recognised Health & Safety qualification, with strong experience in compliance and risk management
• Proven track record of leading teams in fast-paced, complex environments
• A confident communicator and problem-solver, able to build strong stakeholder relationships
• Highly organised and analytical, with the ability to balance strategic planning and hands-on delivery

About Us
We are the University of Southampton Students' Union (SUSU) – independent from the University and run by students, for students. Our vision is simple:  SUSU is here to enrich the life of every student. We are a workplace that’s buzzing with life, ideas, and opportunities – where your work directly shapes the student experience. 

As part of our team, you'll enjoy:

• Salary of £43,337 to £47,325
• Generous paid holiday - 30 days per year, plus eight closure days (around Easter, August and Christmas) on top of eight bank holidays (and an opportunity to purchase up to an additional week of holiday). 
• Great pension – we contribute 10% into your defined contributions pension scheme. 
• Travel perks – discounted UniLink and Blue Star bus passes, a Cycle-to-Work scheme. 

To find out more, visit our website here.

Apply Now
You can easily apply using your CV and covering letter by clicking on Apply Now.

For further information prior to submitting your application, please find the relevant contact details within the advert posted on our website.

Closing Date: 19 April 2026

Interview Date: 5 May 2026

Please note feedback will not be provided if you are not shortlisted for interview.   

SUSU is an equal opportunities employer that values a diverse workforce and we want to reflect the student body that we represent. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination and will ensure that our recruitment activities are mindful of equality and diversity matters.  

Full‑time, 35 hours per week (10am–6pm)
£16.44 p/h (£18.42 incl. holiday pay), equivalent to £30k p/a
Campus-based, 5 days onsite (no hybrid working)
3 month contract
To start ASAP

We are delighted to be partnering with a global higher education institution in the search for a Student Engagement Administrator, joining their Student Life team on a full‑time, temporary basis. This is a fully campus based role, offering the opportunity to support vibrant student communities and play a key part in creating an engaging student experience.

About the Role
The Student Engagement Administrator will provide administrative, organisational and frontline student support, contributing to the smooth running of Student Life services and cultural programming.

You will be the first point of contact for students and visitors, offering a welcoming presence and ensuring effective support across a range of activities and events.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide frontline, in‑person support to students and visitors as part of the Student Life team
• Deliver front desk services, responding to queries by email, phone and face‑to‑face
• Organise, promote and lead Cultural Programming events (both ongoing and one‑off)
• Support with event planning, logistics, bookings and onsite delivery
• Make bookings locally and across the UK for student activities
• Assist students in accessing healthcare and mental health support
• Provide administrative support including:
  • Processing student ID card needs
  • Booking rooms
  • Placing orders
• Solve day‑to‑day issues and signpost students, faculty and visitors to relevant resources
• Create and check communications to promote student engagement and connectivity
• Design marketing materials for student activities and initiatives
• Undertake other duties as required to support the effective running of the department

About You
You’ll be an organised, proactive and student‑centred administrator with strong communication skills and a passion for supporting diverse student communities. Experience in customer service, events or student support environments would be highly beneficial.

Please apply below and submit your CV in Word format.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice, we are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you throughout the application process.
 

Salary: £34,000 - £37,000 per annum

Contract: Permanent, full-time (35 hours per week)

Location: Central London

We are delighted to be supporting a global higher education institution in their search for a Student Engagement Coordinator to join their Student Life team. This is a full-time, campus-based role, looking to start in early April.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about student leadership, community building and co-curricular learning, and who enjoys working in a fast-paced, internationally diverse environment.

Key Responsibilities for this role include:

Leadership Development & Coordination

• Creating and delivering a co-curricular leadership framework for emerging and established student leaders.
• Developing structures, governance processes and support systems for student clubs, societies and organisations.
• Advising student leaders including Global Site Ambassadors, club officers and the First Year Student Council.
• Supporting identity-based and special-interest student groups.
• Co-maintaining cross-institutional relationships with partners such as the LSE Students' Union.

Student Engagement & Service Programming

• Designing and delivering programmes that develop leadership, wellbeing and community engagement.
• Building partnerships to expand volunteering and service-learning opportunities.
• Helping shape the long-term vision for service opportunities, including learning outcomes and student engagement pathways.
• Supporting cultural events, service projects and major community initiatives alongside colleagues.
• Serving as a chaperone for day trips and overnight excursions.

Supervision

• Providing leadership and oversight for Student Engagement functions as assigned.
• Line-managing one Student Engagement Administrator, setting priorities and supporting delivery.

General Student Life Duties

• Supporting orientations, arrivals, major events and departures throughout the academic year.
• Participating in the on-call duty rota and responding to urgent or emergency student situations.
• Providing front-desk cover when required and referring students to appropriate university services.
• Working occasional evenings, weekends and bank holidays during high-demand periods.

To be considered for this position, you should possess:

• Experience within a Higher Education setting, in student engagement, student life, leadership development or community-based programming.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to balance multiple priorities across the academic calendar.
• Confidence advising student leaders and supporting co-curricular initiatives.
• A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for working with diverse student populations.
• Flexibility to participate in occasional out-of-hours work and the on-call rota.

If you're excited by the opportunity to help shape student leadership, foster belonging and contribute to a vibrant global student community, we'd love to hear from you.

Please apply below and submit your CV in Word format.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice, we are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you throughout the application process.

Prospectus is delighted to be supporting a world-leading conservatoire in London to recruit for a Student Information System Solutions Architect on a 12-15 month contract. This role will be based from their site in London (South Kensington) and remotely.

Key responsibilities will include architecture & solution design, development & integration, data migration support, technical leadership & governance, testing & deployment support and documentation & knowledge transfer.

The successful candidate will bring strong experience in system integration, solution design, and software development within enterprise environments. You will have previous exposure to Student Information Systems transition projects and experience with data migration methodologies, SQL, and relational database concepts.

To apply please submit your CV only in the first instance. You may also be asked to complete a supporting statement if you do progress further in the recruitment process.

Please note: Applications and interviews for this vacancy will be on a rolling basis therefore we encourage candidates to apply ASAP and we reserve the right to close the role before the advertised closing date.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice Prospectus are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Prospectus invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you in your application.

The Talent Set are pleased to support a fantastic higher education institution in their search for a Head of International Recruitment position. This role involves leading strategic efforts to expand the organisation’s global footprint, develop international partnerships, and increase recruitment of international students across all programmes. The position offers a key opportunity to shape global outreach strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and implement a comprehensive international recruitment plan aligned with organisational goals and growth objectives.
• Identify emerging markets, analyse sector trends, and use data to determine future opportunities for student recruitment.
• Manage and coordinate international marketing campaigns, including participation in global events, fairs, and online outreach activities.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with international agents, partner institutions, and government agencies.
• Oversee compliance and management of the US Federal Loans programme, providing guidance and support to prospective students.
• Represent the organisation at international events, delegations, and virtual platforms to enhance global visibility.
• Lead a small team dedicated to international student recruitment, fostering a collaborative and professional environment.
• Work closely with internal teams to streamline the international student application process and improve engagement.
• Track performance metrics, deliver reports to senior leadership, and adjust strategies based on insights.
• Travel within the UK and abroad to develop and strengthen global partnerships and recruitment efforts.

Person Specification

• Extensive experience in international student recruitment within higher education environments, with a proven record of success across diverse markets.
• Strong skills in creating integrated marketing and outreach strategies tailored to different regions and audiences.
• Experience managing relationships with external stakeholders such as recruitment agents and educational partners.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to confidently engage with stakeholders from various cultural backgrounds.
• Proficiency in analysing data, interpreting statistics, and applying insights for strategic decision-making.
• Highly organised, resourceful, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Deep understanding of UK and international higher education policies, including student visas and funding options.

What’s on Offer
Salary: £60,000 per annum
Contract: 6-month contract
Hybrid working- London

How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

This is an exciting role in a unique organisation.  Our vision is to provide an outstanding experience for all UCL students and to be one of the best students’ unions in the UK and the world.  We aim to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for the better.

We are a registered charity employing over 150 career staff and 300 student staff, delivering a wide range of services and representative functions for UCL students. We have the widest portfolio of services of any student organisation in the country, managing UCL’s extracurricular programmes for sport, music, drama, dance, media, volunteering, academic societies and intercultural engagement; providing a wide range of fantastic social spaces; leading on student democracy and representation across UCL; and offering excellent student support services.

It's an exciting time to join our growing organisation as we lead the delivery of UCL’s groundbreaking new Student Life Strategy. This is enabling us to build more programmes to improve students’ mental and physical wellbeing, promote genuine equity for all, build students’ skills and confidence, develop their international connections and intercultural skills, and make a real contribution to our local community.

We support hybrid working. Excellent benefits including defined benefit pension scheme and generous holiday entitlement. We are proud of high levels of staff engagement and pride ourselves on being a great place to work. We will consider applications to work on a flexible and job share basis wherever possible. 

The role is full time and permanent. This role is based at our Bloomsbury campus with flexibility to work from home on a 40/60 basis (40% working from the office).

We are looking for an Advisor to provide quality advice, information and support to students using the Advice Service, including casework and accompanying students to meetings and hearings. This is an opportunity to work as part of our Advice and Wellbeing department, ensuring students feel supported, informed and striving for positive outcomes whenever possible.

The advisor will provide support by delivering high quality and accurate advice and information to students using the Advice Service. This will include housing, academic, and employment matters, through casework, support and acting as a ‘friend’ for students in UCL committees, panels, hearings or other meetings. The successful candidate will work effectively with Union and UCL teams, including academic and professional services staff in Casework and Student Support and Wellbeing Services. They will also contribute to the production of engaging and useful content to support students needs.

Do you have experience of giving advice or support in a student or other client facing environment? Do you have knowledge of relevant issues in Academic, Housing, Employment or Consumer Advice and Casework? Are you able to understand and work within policies, procedures and regulations? If the answer is yes, then we want to hear from you.

This is an exciting role in a unique organisation.  Our vision is to provide an outstanding experience for all UCL students and to be one of the best students’ unions in the UK and the world.  We aim to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for the better.

We are a registered charity employing over 150 career staff and 300 student staff, delivering a wide range of services and representative functions for UCL students. We have the widest portfolio of services of any student organisation in the country, managing UCL’s extracurricular programmes for sport, music, drama, dance, media, volunteering, academic societies and intercultural engagement; providing a wide range of fantastic social spaces; leading on student democracy and representation across UCL; and offering excellent student support services.

It's an exciting time to join our growing organisation as we lead the delivery of UCL’s groundbreaking new Student Life Strategy. This is enabling us to build more programmes to improve students’ mental and physical wellbeing, promote genuine equity for all, build students’ skills and confidence, develop their international connections and intercultural skills, and make a real contribution to our local community.

We support hybrid working. Excellent benefits including defined benefit pension scheme and generous holiday entitlement. We are proud of high levels of staff engagement and pride ourselves on being a great place to work. We will consider applications to work on a flexible and job share basis wherever possible. 

The role is full time and permanent. This role is based at our Bloomsbury campus with flexibility to work from home on a 40/60 basis (40% working from the office).

We are looking for a Networks Development Coordinator to support the development of our networks to create inclusive, dynamic and engaging communities at UCL. We currently have nine networks at UCL and the purpose of this role is to empower, train and support our students to host events, run campaigns and raise awareness. You will help broker new partnerships with charities and other student groups, facilitating our students to build communities and get the most out of their time at UCL. You will also take a leading role in coordinating history months and awareness days, working with our student communities. 

This role will also work closely with UCL's Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Team to oversee support and development of elected student EDI Reps who drive equality initiatives across the institution.

Do you have experience in supporting students from liberation communities? Do you have experience of empowering and training students or volunteers? If the answer is yes, then we want to hear from you. 

Our ideal candidate will have experience of supporting others to make meaningful change, experience of lobbying and campaigning as well experience of event management and facilitation. 

This is an exciting role in a unique organisation.  Our vision is to provide an outstanding experience for all UCL students and to be one of the best students’ unions in the UK and the world.  We aim to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for the better.

We are a registered charity employing over 150 career staff and 300 student staff, delivering a wide range of services and representative functions for UCL students. We have the widest portfolio of services of any student organisation in the country, managing UCL’s extracurricular programmes for sport, music, drama, dance, media, volunteering, academic societies and intercultural engagement; providing a wide range of fantastic social spaces; leading on student democracy and representation across UCL; and offering excellent student support services.

It's an exciting time to join our growing organisation as we lead the delivery of UCL’s groundbreaking new Student Life Strategy. This is enabling us to build more programmes to improve students’ mental and physical wellbeing, promote genuine equity for all, build students’ skills and confidence, develop their international connections and intercultural skills, and make a real contribution to our local community.

We support hybrid working. Excellent benefits including defined benefit pension scheme and generous holiday entitlement. We are proud of high levels of staff engagement and pride ourselves on being a great place to work. We will consider applications to work on a flexible and job share basis wherever possible. 

The role is full-time and permanent. This role is based at our Bloomsbury campus with flexibility to work from home on a 40/60 basis (40% working from the office).

We’re looking for an Education & Advocacy Manager to empower over 2,000 academic representatives to influence decision makers and shape the future of education at UCL. This is your opportunity to support one of the largest networks of elected academic representatives in the UK, at a global top 10 university, ensuring students are core to the learning experience across all stages and levels of study.

You'll lead strategies that strengthen student representation, ensuring students are central in shaping UCL’s academic experience. You’ll work closely with student leaders and university stakeholders to deliver meaningful change and enhance the student experience.

Do you have knowledge of student engagement practices and effective volunteer management? Do you have experience empowering others and shaping educational policy?

If the answer is yes, then we want to hear from you.

This is an exciting role in a unique organisation.  Our vision is to provide an outstanding experience for all UCL students and to be one of the best students’ unions in the UK and the world.  We aim to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for the better.

We are a registered charity employing over 150 career staff and 300 student staff, delivering a wide range of services and representative functions for UCL students. We have the widest portfolio of services of any student organisation in the country, managing UCL’s extracurricular programmes for sport, music, drama, dance, media, volunteering, academic societies and intercultural engagement; providing a wide range of fantastic social spaces; leading on student democracy and representation across UCL; and offering excellent student support services.

It's an exciting time to join our growing organisation as we lead the delivery of UCL’s groundbreaking new Student Life Strategy. This is enabling us to build more programmes to improve students’ mental and physical wellbeing, promote genuine equity for all, build students’ skills and confidence, develop their international connections and intercultural skills, and make a real contribution to our local community.

We support hybrid working. Excellent benefits including defined benefit pension scheme and generous holiday entitlement. We are proud of high levels of staff engagement and pride ourselves on being a great place to work. We will consider applications to work on a flexible and job share basis wherever possible. 

The role is full-time and fixed term for 12 months. This role is based at our Bloomsbury campus with flexibility to work from home on a 40/60 basis (40% working from the office).

We are looking for a Prevention and Intervention Programme Manager to line manage the Advisors (Sexual Violence Liaison Officers) and be responsible for an SVLO programme to support students who have experienced sexual violence, sexual harassment, gender-based violence and/or domestic abuse at any point in their lives. The Programme Manager will need to work closely with the Advice Service Manager to support the Specialist Advisors in working alongside the generalist advice provision. The Programme Manager will oversee the Active Bystander Programme as well as the expansion of new and existing programmes, including developing personalised packages for departments and an attractive offer for external partner organisations. 

Have you got demonstrable experience of working with individuals who have experienced one or more of the following: sexual violence, harassment, gender-based violence or domestic abuse? Have you got an understanding of the impact of sexual violence and sexual harassment on survivors, and how to support them with a trauma informed approach? If the answer is yes, then we want to hear from you. 

Our ideal candidate will continue to develop and embed the trauma-informed Consent and Tackling Sexual Misconduct strand to enhance and grow the Active Bystander Programme. The right candidate will scope and develop propositions for new and innovative prevention and intervention programmes. The successful role holder will also manage the planning and implementation of an SVLO programme, in collaboration with UCL colleagues (such as Student Support and Wellbeing Services, the Casework team, and the Crime Prevention & Personal Safety team). 

Director of Commercial Services

Salary: £60,727
Location: University of Reading Students’ Union
Contract: Full Time – 37.5 hours per week (worked flexibly)

Are you ready to shape exceptional student experiences through vibrant and innovative commercial services?
Reading Students’ Union is seeking a progressive and values-driven Director of Commercial Services to provide strategic and hands-on leadership across all commercial services, helping to deliver outstanding spaces, services and experiences for the student community.

About Reading SU

Reading Students’ Union is an independent education charity led by, and for, students.

The Students’ Union is central to the University experience and works to support all aspects of student life for the 19,000 plus students studying at the University of Reading. Located in one of Britain’s top green spaces, the Students’ Union is an ambitious and diverse organisation, committed to supporting every student at Reading University in achieving personal success.

Reading SU sits at the heart of a thriving student community, with activities and initiatives inspired by students themselves. The Students’ Union is committed to promoting the interests and welfare of its members, representing their needs, and offering opportunities for personal development through a wide range of social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities.

This commitment to student experience also underpins the Union’s commercial activity. Reading Students’ Union’s venues, services and events are designed to be inclusive, welcoming and vibrant spaces where students can connect, feel a sense of belonging and create lasting memories. Guided by student insight, the commercial services play an important role in supporting the Union’s mission while enhancing student life across campus.

About the Role

Reading SU are thrilled to be searching for a Director of Commercial Services, a dynamic leader experienced in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing. This role is not just about maintaining the status quo but about reimagining and diversifying the commercial services in line with student community needs.

The ideal candidate will be both strategic and hands-on, with an ability to develop Reading SU’s commercial services while also being involved in delivery of the operations.

The successful candidate will not necessarily come from the Higher Education sector but will be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of the trends, challenges and opportunities that shape student life and the Students’ Union sector. They will bring a sound understanding of charity governance and financial management, alongside the strategic and operational capability required to lead complex commercial services within a democratic, student-led organisation.

Reading Students’ Union offers an inclusive and engaging working environment and is passionate about developing its people. The organisation is committed to ensuring its workforce reflects the diversity of the community it serves, respecting individual identity and celebrating differences. Applications are encouraged from all candidates regardless of background, and Reading Students’ Union particularly welcomes applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and from candidates with disabilities.

The SU offers a range of sector-leading benefits including enhanced leave, onsite nursery, occupational sick pay, access to campus facilities and winter shutdown over the Christmas period- a rare opportunity within the hospitality and commercial sector.

It’s a genuinely exciting time for Reading Students’ Union and we look forward to receiving your application.

Key Dates

Closing Date: Thursday 9th April, 12pm
First Stage Interviews (Remote): 20th April
Final Interviews (In-person): 27th April

Optional Q/A session with the CEO and Interim Commercial Director: 26th March, 12pm. Email to register (see below)

How to Apply

Please click 'Apply' to be redirected to our website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and apply.

For an informal conversation about the role and the application process, or to register to the optional Q/A session, please contact our recruitment partners at Atkinson HR Consulting. Their details can be found in the candidate pack.

Finance Manager at Reading Students’ Union 

Location: University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, Berkshire 

Salary: £ 36,596 - £45,653 depending on experience

Contract: Permanent - Full time, 35 hours a week which can be condensed into 4 days

A role where you can innovate and make a real impact!  

About Reading Students’ Union 

We are a dynamic, student-focused organisation dedicated to empowering students and enhancing their university experience. Our vision is to be a place for everyone; we inspire and empower students to change the world. Check out our exciting new strategy.

The Role: Finance Manager 

As Finance Manager, you will be at the heart of Reading Students’ Union’s Finance team, providing senior operational leadership and expert financial support to ensure the Union operates efficiently, transparently, and in line with its charitable purpose, values, and legal obligations. 

You will be the trusted expert on the Union’s finances. You will be overseeing management accounts, statutory accounts, payroll, and financial systems and will be a key business partner to senior leaders, budget holders, and elected student officers. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you will help build a strong culture of effective financial management across both charitable and commercial activities, ensuring financial decisions always reflect our mission, vision, values, and ethics. 

You will be the line-manager of the Finance team, drive continuous improvement, support strategic delivery, and confidently deputise for the Director of Finance when required. 

What you’ll do:  

Financial Reporting & Data-Driven Insight 

• Ensure the accuracy and timeliness of all key financial reports to support informed decision-making. 
• Prepare monthly management accounts and annual final accounts. 
• Design, maintain, and analyse KPI reports to monitor financial health and operational efficiency. 
• Respond promptly and accurately to requests for financial data and insights, including Board reports. 

Financial Planning & Business Partnering 

• Collaborate with the Director of Finance to develop and implement long-term financial planning aligned with strategic objectives. 
• Act as a trusted partner for commercial strategy, providing insights on income generation and subsidiary operations. 
• Support annual budgeting and reforecasting processes, ensuring robust financial oversight. 

Operational Finance Management 

• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including invoice processing, payment runs, journal preparation, and reconciliations. 
• Manage cash flow and reserves to ensure financial stability. 
• Maintain aged debtor and creditor records and reconcile balance sheet accounts (prepayments, accruals, PAYE, NIC, payroll control). 

Systems, Controls & Compliance 

• Control the operation of the SU’s accounting system and ensure completion of month-end and year-end procedures. 
• Oversee payroll processing, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. 
• Develop and maintain accessible financial procedures aligned with best practice and audit recommendations. 
• Ensure compliance with financial legislation, governance frameworks, and statutory reporting requirements (VAT returns, Charity Commission, Companies House, HMRC). 

Risk, Governance & Assurance

• Maintain an accurate and live risk register in collaboration with the Director of Finance. 
• Implement robust internal financial controls across the organisation. 
• Support the Finance & Risk Committee and ensure adequate insurance coverage and asset management. 
• Work confidently within governance frameworks, providing assurance to senior leaders and Trustees. 

Leadership & Collaboration 

• Line-manage the Finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance. 
• Provide training and guidance on financial processes and best practices. 
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, including auditors and insurers. 

About You  

Essential 

• AAT qualified or part‑qualified accountant (or willing to work towards). 
• Significant experience as a Finance Manager or in a senior finance role.
• Advanced Excel skills (creating data, analysing data, manipulating data)
• Strong numerical, analytical, and problem‑solving skills. 
• Organised, adaptable, and able to manage competing priorities in a busy and fast-paced environment. 
• Excellent communicator, confident in explaining financial information to non‑finance colleagues. 
• Confident people manager with the ability to coach, mentor, and develop others. 
• Passionate about using financial insight to support effective decision‑making. 
• Evidence of ongoing CPD or professional development. 
• Proven experience in: 
  • Producing monthly management accounts, budgets, forecasts, and cash flow reports. 
  • Managing day‑to‑day finance operations, including invoicing, payments, reconciliations, and payroll. 
  • Business partnering with budget holders and senior leaders. 
  • Leading the development of financial processes and controls to strengthen governance, efficiency, and effectiveness. 
  • Working within governance frameworks and applying good financial controls. 
  • Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners. 

Desirable: 

• Experience working in a charity, education, or student-focused environment. 
• Knowledge of charity VAT requirements and governance frameworks. 
• Experience supporting Boards, Trustees, or Finance & Risk Committees. 
• Knowledge of EPOS, stock control, or electronic payment systems. 

Why Join Us? 

• Inclusive and supportive team culture 
• Flexible working options 
• 35 days annual leave including Christmas and Easter closure days 
• Professional development opportunities 
• Unique working environment in the heart of a vibrant Student’s Union, set on a stunning, green campus. 

Ready to make bold change happen? Ready to lead the way?  

Join us and help shape the future of student life at Reading Students’ Union. 

Committed to equality, celebrating diversity, and embedding sustainability—building an inclusive workplace and a brighter future for all.