Director – Careers, Student Success

About the University and the Role:

Founded more than five centuries ago, the University of Aberdeen is a leading research institution that drives innovation and prepares students for future careers. It is ranked 2nd in Scotland and 12th in the UK in the 2025 Guardian University Guide and is listed among the top 250 universities worldwide in the 2025 QS and Times Higher Education rankings.

The University of Aberdeen will open its Mumbai campus in Powai in August 2026. At launch, it will offer six programmes: four-year undergraduate degrees in Computing, Data Science, Economics, and Business Management, along with one-year master’s degrees in Artificial Intelligence and Business Administration.

We are seeking a Director/Head – Careers, Student Success & Corporate Engagement / Placements who will lead engagements and services to drive student success related to career preparedness, job placements, industry relations, and strategic partnerships to enhance career opportunities for students at the University of Aberdeen’s India Campus. This role focuses on building strong industry collaborations, driving employability programs, and ensuring student success through career development initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

· Job Placements & Career Services: Develop placement strategies, employer engagement, and career support programs to maximize student employability.

· Industry Engagement: Establish strong partnerships with corporates, industry bodies, and startups to drive internships, live projects, and research collaborations.

· Alumni & Networking Initiatives: Strengthen alumni relations to create mentorship and career support opportunities.

· Skill Development & Career Readiness: Oversee workshops, training, and certification programs to enhance student competencies.

· Partnership Development: Collaborate with global and local industry leaders to create learning and career pathways.

· Market Insights & Trends: Monitor industry needs and adapt academic programs to meet evolving workforce demands.

· Internships & Experiential Learning: Promote hands-on learning opportunities through industry-driven projects.

· Events and Competitions: Organise relevant activities and events that help student engagement and also prepare them to participate and succeed in competitions that build career competencies

· Governance of Student Bodies: Ensure the working of the student leadership and governance that support cultural, social activities that support holistic development and enrichment of students

Required Skills:

· Entrepreneurial Agility: Ability to build and scale new initiatives, fostering innovation and institutional growth.

· Strategic Thinking: Ability to design and implement long‑term strategies aligned with University goals.

· Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate diverse teams.

· Stakeholder Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and external partners.

· Data‑Driven Decision‑Making: Strong analytical skills in using data to improve performance.

· Communication & Presentation: Excellent written and verbal communication; confident in public forums.

· Technology Proficiency: Ability to adopt and optimize systems such as CRM and corporate relations management.

· Problem Solving: Strong critical thinking skills to address complex challenges.

· Student‑Centric Approach: Commitment to delivering excellent student success and experience.

· Planning & Organising: Ability to manage processes, timelines, and priorities effectively.

· Continuous Improvement Mindset: Track record of enhancing services and promoting best practices.

Required Qualifications

· Master’s degree in Business, Education, or related field.

· 10+ years of experience in industry relations, career services, or corporate partnerships at a university.

· Strong expertise in employer engagement, student career development, and placement strategy.

Why Join Us?

· Join the founding team of a leading UK university establishing a centre of academic excellence in India.

· Play a key role in expanding world-class opportunities for students in India.

· Contribute to building high-quality team, culture, and impact within a mission-driven, collaborative environment.

· Access competitive compensation and benefits.