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SalaryWhat is the University for the Creative Arts Students’ Union?
Are you passionate about supporting and enhancing the student experience in a creative and dynamic environment? The University for the Creative Arts Students' Union (UCASU) might be the perfect place for you. As an independent organisation from the University for the Creative Arts, we are dedicated to representing and advocating for the diverse community of students at the university. Our mission is to ensure that every student's voice is heard and their university life is enriched through a wide range of activities, services, and opportunities.
At UCASU, we believe in the power of creativity and collaboration. Our team works tirelessly to create an inspiring and supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. From organising cultural and social events to providing essential welfare support, we are committed to making a positive impact on the student experience. Our initiatives not only enhance the campus atmosphere but also foster a strong sense of community and belonging among students.
Working at UCASU offers a unique opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking and innovative organisation. You will be joining a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about student engagement and development. Our workplace culture is one of inclusivity, creativity, and continuous improvement, making it an ideal environment for individuals who are enthusiastic about making a difference. If you are looking for a role where you can contribute to the growth and success of students at one of the UK's leading creative arts universities, UCASU is the place for you.
Why Work Here?
Right now at UCASU, we are going through a process of transformation. Since September 2023 a Change Director has been working to develop and implement a turnaround plan overseen by a Turnaround Board. Following an increased funding arrangement for the Students’ Union with the University from £420,000 to £581,000 for the 2024/25 financial year (one of the few Students’ Unions in the country to receive a significant block grant rise this year), we are now opening recruitment for several positions to put in place the staffing structure we need to be able to deliver for students. We are currently undertaking a commercial review through Greenhouse Consultancy and Nina & Co as well as strategic research by Alterline that will lead to a new Strategy for the Students’ Union, and a clear direction for how to deliver commercial services.
This is a really exciting time to join UCASU. You will be part of a new structure, shaping a new way of doing things, putting together a new strategy and being part of a brand new culture. Get involved!
Job Purpose
The Director of Commercial and Operations is a pivotal role within our Students' Union, ensuring both the operational excellence and commercial success of our diverse activities and services. You'll provide strategic leadership to our commercial ventures, oversee the seamless delivery of HR and finance functions, and play a key role in securing the financial sustainability and growth of the Union. This is a high-impact opportunity for a strategic and commercially-minded leader to shape the future of our organisation and make a real difference in the lives of our students.
This role is a two year contracted position with the goal of ensuring our commercial services are able to become self-funding, and not requiring a subsidy from the Students’ Union’s core income received from the University. If successful in that goal, the expectation is that this position will become a permanent role at the Students’ Union. The successful candidate will be starting at the same time as we will have received a commercial review undertaken through Greenhouse Consultancy and Nina & Co, that will shape the expectations of what this role will ultimately deliver.
This role will:
Drive the commercial performance of the Students' Union to achieve long-term financial goals.
Lead and develop a high-performing team across commercial, HR, and finance functions.
Ensure the Union operates within a sound framework of financial controls and HR best practices.
For a full job description, please head to the application link.
Closing date for applications: Monday 24th June, 9am.
Interviews: Tuesday 9th July (in-person)
