Deputy Head of International Recruitment (Channel Development)

Role Description

Ready to shape the global footprint of a world-leading university?

We are seeking a Deputy Head of International Recruitment (Channel Development) to lead our strategic channels across international schools, pathway providers, and sponsors. As the University of York advances its mission as a University for Public Good, we are actively expanding our global footprint and growing our international student community. This senior role offers a high-impact platform to own high-stakes strategies, build global networks, and drive our ambitious recruitment agenda.

What You'll Do

• Own Strategic Recruitment Channels: Design and deliver recruitment strategies targeting key sponsors, pathway providers, and international schools to hit target enrolments.
• Lead Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the university’s lead champion for key external networks, building long-term, high-value relationships.
• Drive Data-Led Strategy: Analyze complex international market data and sector trends to inform decision-making and identify growth opportunities.
• Collaborate Across Boundaries: Work alongside four fellow Deputy Heads, academic faculties, admissions, marketing, and global teams to streamline conversion pipelines.
• Operational Leadership: Shape service delivery, lead strategic project workstreams, provide subject-matter expertise, and deputise for the Deputy Director.

What You Bring

• Higher Education Expertise: Proven background in international student recruitment within UK Higher Education.
• Stakeholder Network Track Record: Experience managing and influencing relationships with international schools, pathway providers, and institutional sponsors.
• Analytical & Strategic Thinking: Ability to turn complex market data into actionable recruitment strategies.
• Collaborative Leadership: Demonstrated success in cross-functional project leadership, influencing senior internal and external partners.
• Global Flexibility: Cultural sensitivity, tact, diplomacy, and a willingness to travel nationally and internationally.

Ready to apply? Bring your strategic vision and international recruitment expertise to York and lead our global engagement forward.

For queries, please contact: James.stephenson@york.ac.uk

Application Deadline: 11/11/2026

Interview date: to be confirmed

Condition of employment

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. Consequently, all applicants will be asked to declare both unspent and spent convictions on their application form.

Appointment of the successful candidate will be conditional on a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview.  Read more about the University of York’s commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.