International Office Director Role at Leeds to Shape Global Higher Education Strategy

The University of Leeds is creating a very exciting new leadership role with the appointment of its Director of the International Office. At the time of announcement, Leeds was ranked as one of the top ten UK research institutions and within the global top 100 according to the QS World Rankings 2026. The university stated that this appointment formed part of its ambitious Universal Values, Global Change plan for 2020–2030, designed to enhance international engagement and extend the university’s global reach.

In their statement, the university explained that the Director of the International Office would report directly to the Marketing Director and take on most responsibilities relating to the international agenda. These include recruiting international students, managing transnational education partnerships, and overseeing the International Pathways Centre. The role will coordinate a UK‑based team and manage five international offices located in Malaysia, China, Brussels, Nigeria, and India. The university clarified that the position is primarily about flexibility in responding to global market opportunities and challenges, making it one of the most important leadership roles in international recruitment within higher education.

The declared responsibilities include leading international student recruitment in line with the Student Recruitment Strategy, establishing and maintaining global partnerships, and formulating institution‑wide international strategic plans to raise the university’s profile and influence. The Director will also represent Leeds externally, building its reputation worldwide, while developing and energising a high‑performing team. These responsibilities are intended to ensure Leeds remains competitive in the global higher education space.

The university added that it is seeking a visionary leader with a strong track record of successfully implementing international strategy and global engagement in higher education or related fields. Essential requirements include proven experience in partnership development and international collaboration, strong leadership and commercial awareness, and the ability to manage complex budgets. Candidates must also demonstrate excellent communication and negotiation skills, together with the flexibility to thrive in fast‑changing environments.

Applications are welcomed from those who can demonstrate the experience and qualifications required for the role of International Office Director in higher education. The university described the position as a gateway for candidates wishing to shape global higher education strategy. Interested applicants should submit a CV and covering letter addressing the criteria in the person specification. The preferred method of application is online via Berwick Partners, with the closing deadline set for midnight on Sunday, 1 February 2026. University leaders emphasised that this is an enhanced opportunity to strengthen Leeds’s international standing. The International Office Director will not only recruit students but also establish long‑term partnerships, support global enrolments, and ensure that international education responsibilities contribute to the university’s mission of advancing knowledge and shaping a better future.

Editor’s Note:

The announcement of the International Office Director role at the University of Leeds comes at a strategic moment. The university has made clear that international engagement will be central to its future, and this position is key to shaping that vision. With Leeds ranked among the top ten research universities in the UK and already within the global top 100, appointing such a leader sends a strong signal that the institution is ready to expand its global influence. Competition for international students is intense, and there has never been a more important time to have clear strategies for recruitment and partnerships. By emphasising student recruitment, transnational education partnerships, and the management of overseas offices, Leeds appears well placed to respond quickly to international opportunities. The responsibilities outlined are wide‑ranging yet interconnected: partnership development, external representation, and strategic planning. Together, they highlight the importance of strong leadership, commercial awareness, and the ability to manage complex teams and budgets. These qualities are essential to protect Leeds’s reputation and secure future gains. Candidates will recognise that this is not simply a job description but an opportunity to influence the global future of the university, energise its profile, and ensure Leeds is taken seriously by international students and partners. This reflects a wider trend in UK universities, where international offices are becoming critical to growth, innovation, and reputation.

Ultimately, the role is about vision and delivery. If the university appoints the right leader, the International Office Director will ensure Leeds not only attracts students but also builds sustainable partnerships that support research, teaching, and global collaboration. Skoobuzz believes that it is a reminder that international recruitment and partnerships are not just about numbers; they are about shaping the identity and future of a university in an increasingly fast‑changing world.

FAQs

1.What is the role of an Office Director?

The role of an Office Director is to oversee the daily operations of an office or department. They ensure that staff work effectively, budgets are managed properly, and organisational goals are met. The position often involves leadership, planning, and decision‑making.

2.What does a Director of International Affairs do?

A Director of International Affairs manages a university’s or organisation’s global strategy. This includes building international partnerships, leading student or staff exchanges, overseeing recruitment from overseas, and representing the institution abroad. The role focuses on strengthening global engagement and reputation.

3.What are the job duties of a Director?

The job duties of a Director usually include setting strategic goals, managing budgets, supervising staff, ensuring compliance with policies, and representing the organisation externally. Directors are also responsible for making key decisions that guide the future direction of their department or institution.

4.What are the seven duties of a Director?

Traditionally, the seven main duties of a Director are:

• Leadership – guiding teams and setting vision.
• Strategy – planning long‑term goals.
• Oversight – monitoring performance and compliance.
• Finance – managing budgets and resources.
• Representation – acting as the public face of the organisation.
• Decision‑making – taking responsibility for key choices.
• Accountability – ensuring transparency and reporting outcomes.

5.What are the qualifications to be a Director?

To be a Director, candidates usually need a strong academic background (often a degree), significant professional experience, and proven leadership skills. In higher education or international roles, knowledge of global markets, partnership development, and communication skills are essential. Many directors also require commercial awareness and the ability to manage complex budgets and large teams.