Head of Marketing

Royal Agricultural University - External Relations

Location: Cirencester, Gloucestershire, Hybrid

Salary: £44,746 to £56,535 Grade 9, per annum

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Placed On: 22nd January 2026

Closes: 15th February 2026

Location: Cirencester, GL7 6JS

Flexible working options considered

For 180 years, the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) has been shaping the future of land, food, and agricultural education. Today, as the sector evolves at pace, we continue to lead the way - combining world‑class teaching, strong industry partnerships and a commitment to innovation. We are now looking for an exceptional Head of Marketing to help drive the next chapter of our growth.

About the role

As Head of Marketing, you will provide strategic leadership and creative direction for the RAU’s marketing activity. Working closely with the Student Recruitment Team, you will bring cohesion and impact to how the University presents itself across all channels, helping to strengthen our brand, elevate our profile, and support ambitious recruitment targets.

You will be responsible for:

• Developing and delivering integrated marketing strategies aligned to the University’s vision and values
• Ensuring brand consistency and championing best‑practice across the institution
• Leading the creation and delivery of key publications, campaigns, and flagship events
• Managing non‑student recruitment marketing to enhance reputation and engagement
• Monitoring performance, optimising activity, and using data to drive continuous improvement

This is a senior role within the External Relations Directorate, reporting to the Director of External Relations and contributing to a collaborative, supportive, and high‑performing team.

About you

You will bring a strong track record of shaping and implementing effective marketing strategies, with hands‑on experience across digital and print channels. You will be confident working with creative and media agencies, delivering campaigns that perform and resonate. You’ll also have experience using CMS platforms and an understanding of accessibility, usability, and user‑focused design.

Experience in higher education is an advantage, but not essential. What matters most is your ability to lead, inspire, innovate, and deliver.

Why join us?

Set in stunning surroundings on the edge of the Cotswolds, the RAU offers an exceptional working environment and a generous range of staff benefits, including:

• 35‑hour working week
• 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Free, guaranteed on‑campus parking
• Discounted catering facilities
• Discounted onsite gym
• Free library services
• Employee assistance programme
• Occupational health and counselling support
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Extensive staff development opportunities

Further details of the full range of staff benefits available can be found on our website.

How to apply

For a full job description and details on how to apply please visit: https://www.rau.ac.uk/about-us/jobs.

Closing date: Sunday 15th February 2026

Interviews: w/c 2nd March and 9th March

The RAU is an equal opportunities employer and we particularly welcome applications from black and minority ethnic candidates as they are under-represented within the RAU at this level