Deputy Head of Postgraduate Admissions [Temporary Cover]

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Cambridge is seeking an experienced manager to join the Postgraduate Admissions Office. As Deputy Head, you will lead a dedicated team and ensure efficient operations for over 35,000 applications annually. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in managing service teams and a passion for higher education. This fixed-term position offers a great opportunity to impact admissions processes significantly.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Ability to efficiently handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge in admissions processes in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of services in the Postgraduate Admissions Office.
• Oversee operations including offer-making and document verification.
• Shape policy and practice within the university regarding admissions.

Skills

Experience managing service teams

Ability to prioritize multiple tasks

Leadership during change

Clear communication with stakeholders

Passion for Higher Education

Job description

Temporary cover: This post is fixed-term until 30 September 2026 or the return of the post holder, whichever is the earlier.

We are looking for an experienced and motivated manager to join the Postgraduate Admissions Office in a key leadership role. This fixed-term position offers an excellent secondment opportunity to gain experience in leading a high-performing team and managing change while covering a career break.

The Postgraduate Admissions Office is responsible for around 35,000 applications annually for doctoral and master's programmes. It supports applicants, over 100 departments and faculties, and all 31 Cambridge Colleges with expert admissions advice and services.

As Deputy Head, you will lead the delivery of a high-quality service. You'll oversee core operations including offer-making, document verification, visa sponsorship, admissions confirmation, and providing staff and applicant guidance. You'll ensure processes are efficient, accurate, and meet Service Level Agreements, while supporting and developing a dedicated team.

You will use your knowledge and experience to direct staff responsible for the development of specialist admissions areas such as student visas, international qualifications, part-time study, English language assessment, and applications from disabled applicants. Your expertise will help shape policy and practice across the University.

We're Looking For Someone Who

• Has experience managing, motivating, and developing service teams
• Can prioritise and deliver multiple areas of work efficiently and effectively
• Can lead and support teams through periods of change and process improvement
• Communicates clearly and confidently with a wide range of stakeholders
• Thrives in a challenging, fast-paced, high volume, deadline-driven environment
• Understands and is passionate about Higher Education and admissions
• Can provide expert advice and handle complex queries with confidence
  
  

You will serve as Assistant Secretary to the Postgraduate Admissions Committee and Chair the International Qualifications Reference Group, representing the office at key meetings and forums across the University.

Applications are welcome from external and internal candidates, including internal candidates interested in taking a secondment from their current role in the University.

Your application should include a CV and Cover Letter that clearly set out how you meet the criteria listed in the person profile within the Further Particulars along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted based upon these criteria.

Additional information regarding the role can be found within the Further Particulars.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Jane Wilkinson - [e-mail]

The closing date for applications is: 18th August 2025

Interviews will be held on: 19th September 2025

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

If you have any queries regarding the application process please contact [e-mail]

Please quote reference AT46497 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Further information

• Further Particulars
  
  

Apply online