Apprenticeship Business Development Manager (072-25)

York St John University; York; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

York St John University is seeking a part-time Apprenticeship Business Development Manager to lead strategic initiatives in expanding their Apprenticeship portfolio. This role requires innovative thinking and strong relationship management skills to enhance partnerships and ensure compliance with regulations. The successful candidate will be a proactive individual with experience in business development, particularly within higher education, committed to equality, diversity, and sustainability in education.

Qualifications

• Experience in business development, preferably in higher education or corporate sectors.
• Knowledge of ESFA funding rules and Ofsted requirements.
• Strong communication and relationship management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic initiatives to grow the Apprenticeship portfolio.
• Build partnerships and manage employer engagement.
• Oversee operational systems and manage contracting processes.

Skills

Business development

Communication

Relationship management

Tools

CRM systems

HubSpot

DocuSign

Job description

Part time fixed term

Location: York

Salary: £34,132 to £39,355 per annum (£27,305 to £31,484 pro rata)

Introduction to YSJ University

Situated in the heart of the historic city of York, and with our thriving London Campus, York St John University is renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant community, and values-driven approach. We are committed to promoting inclusion, sustainability, and innovation, fostering a strong sense of belonging for all.

With a global outlook and deep connections to our local communities, we aim to enrich the experiences of our students, staff, and partners while making a positive societal impact.

The Team

The Business Development and Knowledge Exchange team plays a pivotal role in advancing York St John University’s strategic aims. We work collaboratively across the University and with external stakeholders to drive innovation, deliver impactful partnerships, and expand our Apprenticeship portfolio. Our team thrives on fostering relationships with local, national, and global employers to ensure our apprenticeship offerings remain competitive and future-focused.

The Role

We are looking to appoint a part-time (29.6 hours) and the working pattern is as below:

4 working days from 5. Including Thursday and Friday, rest to be agreed upon appointment with the successful applicant.

As the Apprenticeship Business Development Manager, you will lead strategic initiatives to grow our Apprenticeship portfolio, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and sector regulations, including ESFA, Ofsted, OfS, IFATE and Skills England. You will build high-value partnerships, manage employer engagement, and drive innovation through impactful marketing strategies.

This management role will oversee operational systems, manage contracting processes, and foster collaboration between academic schools and employers to deliver exceptional apprenticeship programmes for employers. You will also act as the University’s primary employer contact during inspections, contributing to maintaining above-benchmark quality scores.

Required Skills and Experience

We are seeking a proactive and innovative individual who can demonstrate a track record in business development, preferably in higher education or corporate sectors. Knowledge of ESFA funding rules, Ofsted requirements, and IFATE/Skills England frameworks will be useful in this role. The post holder will have strong communication and relationship management skills and experience operating CRM and operational systems (e.g., HubSpot, DocuSign).

The successful candidate will have a commitment to equality, diversity, and sustainability and a results-driven approach, with the ability to meet and exceed KPIs. They will also have the capability to manage resources effectively and foster team development.

Additional Information

For informal enquiries, please contact Thomas Burton. Head of Apprenticeship Delivery, Employer Engagement and Commercial Partnerships: [e-mail]

The selection process will include an interview and presentation. Further details will be provided to shortlisted candidates.

Please visit our website to apply and learn more about degree apprenticeships at York St John University.

Unfortunately, this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship however we welcome your application if you are able to evidence right to work in the UK via an alternative route.

Closing Date: 13 Jun 2025
Category: Admin & Technical (Including Research vacancies)