Widening Participation Manager (Fixed Term, Internal Only) (REG

Here's a professional review of the Widening Participation Manager job description, designed to guide potential candidates:

The University of Nottingham is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Widening Participation Manager to spearhead a crucial aspect of their commitment to fostering a more equitable higher education landscape. This role offers a significant opportunity for a passionate professional to make a tangible impact on the lives of prospective students and shape the future of access to university.

What Makes This Opportunity Stand Out?

• Impactful Mission: At its core, this position is about driving meaningful change. You'll be instrumental in delivering the University's Access and Participation Plan, directly contributing to a fairer and more inclusive higher education sector. This is a chance to align your career with a purpose-driven mission.
• Strategic Leadership: You will have the autonomy to lead the design, development, and evaluation of innovative widening participation programmes. This isn't just about execution; it's about strategic thinking and creating sector-leading initiatives.
• Collaborative Environment: Success in this role hinges on strong collaboration. You'll work closely with academic schools, departments, and external partners, building networks and fostering a shared commitment to widening participation.
• Evidence-Based Approach: The role emphasizes a commitment to evidence and evaluation. This means you'll be empowered to use data to inform strategy, measure impact, and ensure that initiatives are as effective as possible.
• Professional Development: This is an opportunity to hone your skills in project management, analytical thinking, and stakeholder engagement within a leading academic institution.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Experience is Key: The description explicitly seeks an "experienced professional with a deep understanding of widening participation." Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate a strong track record in this area.
• Policy and Practice Knowledge: A solid grasp of higher education policy, contemporary widening participation issues, and the educational landscape from pre-16 through post-16 is essential for strategic contribution.
• Project Management Prowess: Proven ability to manage complex projects, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, will be crucial for successful programme delivery.
• Communication Excellence: The ability to communicate effectively, build relationships, and present compelling arguments to diverse audiences is a vital component of this role.
• Flexibility and Commitment: This is a full-time maternity cover role for twelve months, beginning mid-January 2026. It requires some flexibility with working hours, including evenings and weekends, with time given back in lieu. Candidates interested in part-time work (minimum 29 hours) or job-sharing are encouraged to apply and should specify their preference.
• DBS Check: An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required for successful candidates, indicating the sensitive nature of working with individuals who may be under 18.

This role is an excellent pathway for an ambitious professional seeking to lead impactful initiatives in widening participation. It demands a strategic mind, strong interpersonal skills, and a genuine passion for creating opportunities in higher education. If you are driven by purpose and possess the required expertise, this position offers a rewarding and influential career step.