Associate Director Student Influence at University of Manchester Students' Union

As Associate Director Student Influence, you’ll lead the strategic development and operational delivery of our changemaking activity. You’ll ensure students are represented and supported to lead meaningful change, whether through policy, campaigning, or building grassroots movements. You’ll work closely with elected student leaders, university stakeholders, and civic partners to grow UMSU’s influence locally and nationally.

This is a senior leadership role, reporting to the Director of Student Engagement and accountable for a team including a Head of Policy, Head of Student Campaigns and Senior Officer Development Coordinator.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies to grow UMSU’s influence across university, city, and nationally.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing team to deliver impactful change initiatives.
• Cultivate relationships with policy makers, civic organisations, and sector bodies.
• Champion student-led, evidence-informed approaches to advocacy and representation.
• Oversee democratic processes and political education initiatives.
• Drive performance through strategic planning, budgeting, and resource management.

Essential Criteria

We welcome applicants from all educational backgrounds. You’ll need to demonstrate:

• Proven experience in changemaking, whether from a campaigns, organising, advocacy, policy or public affairs background.
• Strategic leadership and team management in a values-led organisation.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to develop and deliver innovative strategies for change.
• Excellent communication and diplomacy, with a collaborative mindset.
• Commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and student empowerment.

Why Join Us?

Competitive salary and generous benefits:

• Hybrid working options.
• Clear progression pathway through our graded role structure.
• A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven workplace.

If you’re an experienced changemaker ready to shape the future of student influence, we want to hear from you. Join us as an Associate Director and help us build a better student experience.

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