Corporate Senior Associate / Legal Director

Oxford Brookes University; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Oxford is looking for an Associate Director of MRE – Admissions to lead the admissions function. This pivotal role involves shaping policy, enhancing processes, and delivering a compliant admissions service. Candidates should have extensive experience in admissions management, a strong understanding of compliance, and exceptional leadership skills. The role supports hybrid working with modern offices at Headington Campus, offering competitive benefits including a generous holiday allowance and pension scheme.

Benefits

Competitive salary and bonuses

Full pension scheme with employer contribution

Generous holiday allowance

Access to discounted university gym

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in leading and managing university admissions or student recruitment.
• Strong understanding of compliance requirements (UKVI, UCAS, GDPR).
• Ability to interpret and use data to inform decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic development and implementation of admissions policy.
• Manage the Head of Admissions and ensure effective delivery of operations.
• Drive transformation initiatives for enhanced applicant experience.

Skills

Leadership

Data interpretation

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of compliance requirements

Education

Degree (preferably postgraduate)

Job description

Unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Join us at Oxford Brookes University, where every step forward is a leap toward a brighter tomorrow.

Associate Director of MRE – Admissions

We are seeking an Associate Director of MRE – Admissions to provide strategic leadership for the University's admissions function. Reporting to the Director of Marketing, Recruitment & Engagement, you will work closely with student recruitment teams and senior colleagues across the University to deliver an admissions service that supports and drives successful student recruitment outcomes. This is a pivotal role in shaping policy, enhancing processes, and delivering a data‑driven, applicant‑focused, and compliant admissions service aligned with sector standards.

For full details of the role, please see the candidate pack on the OBU vacancies page. Any queries regarding the role, please contact the recruiting manager, Suzy Jenner ([e-mail]), for an informal conversation.

About the team

The Admissions Team sits within the Marketing, Recruitment and Engagement Directorate, which advances the University's profile and supports strategic student recruitment. The team includes the Admissions Operations, Applicant Compliance, and Applicant Engagement teams, and works collaboratively to deliver an outstanding applicant experience and ensure compliance with UKVI, UCAS, and GDPR requirements.

What will I be doing?

• Leading the strategic development and implementation of admissions policy and service design to support UK and global recruitment ambitions.
• Driving transformation initiatives to enhance applicant experience and operational efficiency.
• Leading our offer‑making strategy to support recruitment and widening access goals.
• Managing the Head of Admissions and ensuring effective delivery of admissions operations.
• Anticipating sector changes and advising senior leadership on policy implications.
• Leading the development of admissions data and insights.
• Representing the University in sector forums and with international partners.

What skills do I need?

Degree (preferably postgraduate) and demonstrable knowledge of UK and international admissions frameworks. Extensive experience in leading and managing university admissions or student recruitment. Proven leadership of large operational teams and delivery of strategic initiatives. Strong understanding of compliance requirements (UKVI, UCAS, GDPR). Ability to interpret and use data to inform decision‑making. Outstanding interpersonal and influencing skills.

About the location

Based at our Headington Campus, you'll benefit from modern, refurbished offices and an agile workspace designed for collaboration and flexibility. This role supports hybrid working, typically 1–2 days on campus per week.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonuses
• Full pension scheme with employer contribution
• Generous holiday allowance (30 days, rising with service, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days)
• Access to discounted university gym, sports, and on‑site nursery
• Discounted travel options and TOTUM card discount scheme
• Training and development opportunities
• Employee assistance helpline and financial education programmes
• Recognition of gender equality with Athena SWAN Bronze award

Our vision

Shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.