Head of Basic Needs and Partnerships

University of Manchester Students’ Union

We’re a student-focused organisation committed to creating a more inclusive and supportive university experience. With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis affecting students across the UK, access to basic essentials has never been more important. Our growing basic needs service provides support with food, toiletries, clothing, financial wellbeing, and life skills – and we’re looking for an experienced and motivated Head of Basic Needs and Partnerships to lead it.

As Head of Basic Needs and Partnerships, you’ll take strategic and operational ownership of a vital service that supports hundreds of students every week. Reporting to the Associate Director of Student Engagement, this Head of Basic Needs and Partnerships role combines leadership, partnership development, and innovation. You’ll also manage two key roles – the Basic Needs Project Coordinator and Senior Financial Wellbeing Coordinator – ensuring the team is supported, focused, and empowered to deliver high-quality services.

This Head of Basic Needs and Partnerships position is central to growing the service into a sustainable, community-powered hub. You’ll build strong relationships with external partners and donors, expand financial wellbeing and preventative programmes, and help shape initiatives like budgeting workshops, cooking sessions, and life-skills training that support students before they reach crisis point.

What we offer:

• Hybrid working options (where possible)
• A supportive and inclusive working environment
• Opportunities for professional development and progression
• The chance to make a meaningful, lasting impact on student lives

If you’re a collaborative and forward-thinking leader who enjoys leading people, building partnerships, and creating practical solutions, we’d love to hear from you.

Please read the full role profile before applying, as well as our guide to recruitment.

Details:

Salary: £36,301 – £40,560 per annum per year

Contract: Permanent, Full-time

Hours: 35 hours per week (with flexible working)

Eligibility: Open to applicants with relevant skills and experience who are eligible to work in the UK

Recruitment Timeline

Applications opened: 23/03/2026

Applications close: 12/04/2026 23:59 pm

Interviews: 23/04/2026

Role Commencing: 01/06/2026

Please apply via the ‘Apply’ button above.