Head of International Recruitment and Partnerships

Rebuild for a changing world.Shape a modern international strategy.Help define what comes next.

At the University of Lincoln, we are deliberately changing how we approach international engagement.

We are a modern university with real momentum. Academically, culturally and commercially, we are rethinking how we compete, how we build partnerships and how we present ourselves globally. That shift now extends to International.

As Head of International Recruitment and Partnerships, you will take on one of the University’s most important strategic briefs. You will help reset our international footprint across partnerships, markets and influence in response to a very different global environment.

This is not about repeating existing models. It is about making clear choices, building credible partnerships and focusing on sustainable growth.

Reporting to the Chief Marketing Officer, you will work at the centre of the University’s international agenda. You will partner closely with academic leaders, professional services and external stakeholders across the world.

The opportunity

International higher education has changed, structurally, politically and culturally.

You will lead the rebuilding and repositioning of our international partnerships, bring sharper insight to where and how we engage globally, and help move the University beyond transactional recruitment towards higher quality, longer term international relationships.

This is a senior role with genuine scope. You will shape strategy, influence decisions and play a defining role in how Lincoln competes internationally over the next phase of its development.

About you

We are open on background - but not on mindset.

You will bring:

Significant experience in international relations, partnerships or international recruitment within UK higher educationA strong understanding of global HE dynamics, policy and market forcesCredibility with senior internal and external stakeholdersStrategic judgement, analytical capability and the confidence to challenge established approachesA leadership style that is calm, collaborative and outcomes-focused

You will be comfortable operating in complexity, and motivated by the opportunity to build something better, rather than simply manage what exists.

Why Lincoln?

Because we are choosing not to behave like a typical university.

We are investing in brand, insight, digital capability and strategic clarity, and International is a core part of that journey. This role sits within a leadership team that is actively reshaping how the University competes, collaborates and grows.

If you want a role where you can:

Rebuild and reframe an International functionInfluence institutional strategy, not just deliver against itWork with leaders who want to do things differently — and properlyBecome a genuine thought-leader and agent of change within the sector

Then this is that opportunity.

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Ed Hughes, Chief Marketing Officer, at [email protected].

Closing Date: 01 Feb 2026

Department: Administrative and Professional Services

Salary: £69,488 per annum