Director of Marketing, Admissions, Recruitment and Communications (MARC)

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) is a modern, mission-driven institution with a distinctive heritage and a strong commitment to education, inclusion and societal impact. Based in the historic cathedral city of Canterbury, with parts of its campus located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the University is nationally recognised as one of the largest talent providers in the South East of England for public services. Founded in 1962 with deep roots in teacher education, health and social care, the University now prepares future talent for careers across STEM, non-STEM disciplines and medicine. With an increasingly international profile and a growing global footprint, it serves more than thirty thousand students.

The Director of Marketing, Admissions, Recruitment and Communications (MARC) is a pivotal senior leadership role who will play a leading role in positioning CCCU in one of the most dynamic and transformative periods in UK higher education. The post shapes the University’s brand, market presence and student growth strategy, and leads a fully integrated MARC directorate to deliver a seamless, insight-driven applicant journey from first engagement through to enrolment.

The role offers the opportunity to join the PVC Portfolio Executive Team and the University Leadership Forum at a moment of significant sector reform. The introduction of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE), the shifts in employer expectations, modular learning growth, digital transformation and AI are reshaping demand, behaviour and competition.

The Director will lead a high-performing MARC directorate with clear priorities and measurable outcomes. They will champion a digital, insight-led approach to marketing, outreach and recruitment; oversee distinctive audience-focused campaigns; and embed data, evaluation and segmentation at the heart of activity.

Governance, regulation and performance oversight are critical aspects of the role. The Director will oversee compliance with the UKVI, CMA, OfS and GDPR frameworks, ensure responsible recruitment practice, and oversee robust evaluation, reporting and risk management.

CCCU is seeking an experienced senior leader with a strong track record across marketing and communications in higher education or a similarly complex environment. Candidates will bring strategic insight, commercial literacy, digital fluency and inclusive, values-led leadership.

This is an exceptional opportunity for someone motivated to join an ambitious University with motivated and supportive Executive Leadership, to lead a directorate that unites brand strength, recruitment performance and student growth.

The Candidate Briefing Pack for the role can be viewed at CCCU – Director of Marketing (MARC).

We are committed to supporting flexible methods of working wherever possible and this role is split between home and office working. Other key benefits of working at the University include membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme, generous holiday entitlements, training & development opportunities, flexible working and health and wellbeing support.