Chief Marketing Officer

Dixon Walter; Aberystwyth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established institution in Wales is seeking a strategic leader to drive mission-critical services in marketing and recruitment. With a strong academic tradition and a commitment to inclusivity, this role offers the opportunity to shape the university's future in a competitive landscape. The ideal candidate will possess substantial leadership experience, a proven track record in data-driven strategies, and a passion for enhancing student experiences. Join a forward-thinking university that values both tradition and innovation, and make a significant impact on the lives of students and the community.

Qualifications

• Substantial leadership experience in higher education.
• Proven record in developing data-driven strategies.

Responsibilities

• Strategic responsibility for marketing, recruitment, and admissions.
• Expand student numbers in a competitive global market.

Skills

Leadership in higher education

Data-driven marketing strategies

Recruitment and admissions management

Operational management

Welsh language appreciation

Education

Relevant degree or professional qualification

Job description

As the first University College in Wales, Aberystwyth has a long and distinguished tradition of teaching excellence and world-leading research. Established in the 19th century, it is a pioneering achievement in modern Welsh history. Now a university with over 6,000 students and 2,000 staff, Aberystwyth was named the top university in England and Wales for student experience in the Times and Sunday Times’ Good University Guide 2025. It is consistently ranked among the best UK universities for teaching quality and student satisfaction.

Unique Location and Community

Aberystwyth offers a unique combination of a long academic tradition, a stunning location with views over the historic market town and Cardigan Bay coastline, and a campus with state-of-the-art facilities and access to one of Britain’s six copyright libraries. As an anchor institution, it inspires its communities and stakeholders and contributes significantly to the region and Wales.

Opportunity and Strategic Focus

With a new strategic plan, an invigorated leadership team, and a new academic structure, this is an exciting time to join. Reporting directly to the Vice Chancellor and a member of the executive board, this new role will have strategic responsibility for mission-critical services, including marketing, student recruitment, admissions & conversion, global engagement, and events. Building on its strong position and growing student numbers, the task is to expand in a competitive global market for higher education.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants should have substantial leadership experience in higher education, with a proven record in developing data-driven strategies for marketing, recruitment, and admissions. Experience managing multi-functional marketing departments and leveraging data insights for growth is essential. The candidate must balance strategic vision with operational management and understand current higher education challenges. A relevant degree or professional qualification is required, along with excellent leadership qualities and strategic influence skills. Commitment to the university’s mission, inclusivity, and an appreciation for the Welsh language in a bilingual environment are also important.

Application Process

1. A letter of application outlining your interest and how you meet the person specification.
2. A comprehensive CV.
3. Details of three referees and notice period (referees will not be contacted without permission).
4. A completed Personal Details Form (available above).

Key Dates

Closing date: Midnight Sunday 1st June, 2025

Longlist interviews via Microsoft Teams: week commencing 9th June, 2025

Final interviews on campus (date TBC): week commencing 23rd June, 2025

Additional Information

Aberystwyth University is a bilingual institution complying with Welsh Language Standards, welcoming applications in Welsh or English. Please indicate your preferred language for correspondence.

Applicants should review our Privacy Notice regarding data processing and storage, in compliance with GDPR.

Note: The appointee must be eligible to work in the UK. For restrictions effective from 1 January 2021, see Home Office website.