Senior Student Success Officer

## Career Opportunity: Student Success Project Officer (Maternity Cover) at the University of Leeds

Are you passionate about student empowerment and eager to make a tangible impact on academic journeys? The University of Leeds is seeking a motivated and skilled Student Success Project Officer to join their dynamic team. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to a crucial initiative focused on enhancing the student experience, particularly for mature students and those from widening participation backgrounds.

This role is offered as a 12-month maternity cover contract, with an anticipated start date during the week of 5th January 2026. It presents a unique chance to gain valuable project management and student support experience within a renowned academic institution.

Key Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Meaningful Impact: Play a pivotal role in ensuring students feel valued, thrive academically, and achieve their educational goals. Your work will directly contribute to student retention and success.
• Focus on Diverse Student Needs: Gain specialized experience in supporting mature students and those from widening participation backgrounds, a highly sought-after area within higher education. If you have lived experience as a mature student at a UK university, your unique perspective will be highly valued.
• Project Leadership & Development: Lead and direct the Engagement Caller team, a vital component in connecting students with essential support services. You will be instrumental in developing and delivering innovative projects and interventions.
• Cross-Institutional Collaboration: Work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, including academic and professional staff across multiple faculties and central teams. This exposure will broaden your understanding of university operations and strategic initiatives.
• Data-Driven Evaluation: Develop and hone your skills in evaluating project impact, analysing quantitative data, and reporting on outcomes. This analytical focus is crucial for demonstrating effectiveness and refining support strategies.
• Flexible Working Environment: The role is based on the University campus with the potential for hybrid working. The University is also open to discussing flexible working arrangements, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: In addition to the rewarding nature of the work, successful candidates will benefit from:
  • Generous annual leave (42 days, including bank holidays and custom closures).
  • A competitive pension scheme with life assurance.
  • Access to excellent health and wellbeing facilities, including discounted membership at "The Edge" campus gym.
  • Opportunities for personal and professional development through organized courses.
  • Additional benefits such as on-site childcare, shopping discounts, and travel schemes.

Key Considerations for Potential Candidates:

• Fixed-Term Contract: Please note this is a 12-month contract role, providing a focused period for significant contribution and experience acquisition.
• Visa Requirements: Due to Home Office regulations, this role may only be suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they qualify for salary concessions. Potential applicants are encouraged to review the GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa information.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: A strong ability to analyse quantitative data, identify trends, and robustly evaluate and report on the impact of interventions is essential for success in this position.
• Interpersonal & Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are paramount for liaising effectively with diverse academic and professional staff, and for leading the Engagement Caller team.
• Project Management Acumen: Experience in project support, including planning, delivery, and evaluation, will be a significant advantage.

This Student Success Project Officer position offers a compelling opportunity for individuals looking to advance their careers in student support, project management, and higher education administration. It's a chance to contribute to a vital mission while gaining invaluable experience and enjoying a supportive work environment.