Head of Programming and Activities

Overview

Head of Programming and Activities in Student Engagement at Northeastern University London (NULondon). Full time, permanent, based at the London campus, with a start date of 1st July2026.

Salary: up to £61,200 per annum, depending on experience.

Direct reports: SeniorEventsManager, ProgrammeManager, SeniorCo ordinator. Reports to the DirectorofStudentEngagement.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of a strategic, inclusive and vibrant student experience, defining the campus experience for all students.
• Take operational ownership of a growing portfolio that spans programming, sports, student activities, the StudentAmbassador scheme and the university's events function.
• Design and implement new programmes and initiatives, working in partnership with faculty, the StudentUnion and global network colleagues.
• Champion the student experience across the institution, contributing to committees, working groups and strategic discussions.
• Use data, student feedback and sector insight to evaluate the impact of student life programmes and inform future planning.
• Oversee the sports offering in partnership with the StudentUnion, ensuring accessible and engaging opportunities for all students.
• Provide oversight and leadership of the events function, ensuring flagship occasions such as Graduation, Convocation and WelcomeWeek are delivered to the highest standards.
• Own the StudentAmbassador scheme, overseeing all aspects from recruitment and training to deployment and performance.
• Line manage the SeniorEventsManager, ProgrammeManager and SeniorCo ordinator, building a high performing team and fostering a positive culture.
• Manage the department budget, ensuring value for money and compliance with university financial policies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with academic and professional services colleagues, the StudentUnion and external partners.

Qualifications & Experience

• Undergraduate degree or equivalent (mandatory).
• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant field (e.g., student services, education, management) preferred.
• Professional qualification in management, leadership or a related discipline preferred.
• Significant experience in student life, student services, student engagement or a closely related field within higher education.
• Proven track record of designing and delivering student facing programmes, activities or services.
• Experience leading and managing a team, including recruitment, performance management and professional development.
• Experience managing a broad and diverse portfolio of work spanning multiple areas simultaneously.
• Budget management experience, including planning, monitoring and reporting.
• Experience working with or alongside a StudentUnion or student representative body.
• Experience developing sports, physical activity or clubs and societies programmes in a university or comparable setting.
• Experience working within a global or multi campus higher education network.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Strong strategic thinking and planning skills.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to student wellbeing, belonging and inclusive practice.
• Understanding of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion principles.
• Ability to use data and student insight to evaluate impact and inform decisions.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Financial awareness and ability to manage budgets responsibly.
• Collaborative working across teams, departments and institutional boundaries.
• Knowledge of current trends and best practice in student experience in UK higher education.

Benefits & Salary

Salary: up to £61,200 per annum, depending on experience.

Benefits include a good work/life balance, flexible working and parental leave opportunities, an Employee Assistance Programme, optional private medical insurance, season ticket loans and participation in the cycle to work scheme. Annual leave of 25 days plus 8 bank holidays and winter break holidays, and professional development support.

Equal Opportunities

Applications are welcome from all sections of the community and will be judged on merit alone. We welcome applications from all underrepresented groups, including the Global Majority.