The Role
We’re looking for a commercially-minded, values-led leader to drive the next phase of our enterprise growth. This role is about more than hitting targets—it’s about building ethical, sustainable income streams that serve our student community and reflect who we are as a charity.
As the Head of Growth and Enterprise, you will play a key role in scaling our operations, generating new revenue streams, and developing key partnerships. This is a hands-on role that requires both strategic thinking, strong financial acumen, a commercial mentality and a deep understanding of the merchandise and retail industries to fuel our first area of growth. Just as importantly, you will be expected to balance commercial success with a strong alignment to our values and ethos as a charity/membership organisation—ensuring that our growth reflects our purpose and vision.
If you have a proven track record of identifying new business opportunities, leading cross-functional teams to achieve success, and doing so in a way that reflects compassion, integrity, and social impact, we want to hear from you!
This is initially a two-year fixed term position. The goal is that, within those two years, the income streams developed through this role will make it self-sustaining beyond the fixed term.
Key Responsibilities
- Proven experience in business development, with a strong track record of generating new business opportunities.
- Lead growth in merchandise, retail, media sales, video production and events, ensuring financial success aligns with our organisations values.
- Strategic thinker with a strong focus on execution and achieving measurable growth.
- Ability to think outside the box and innovate in a fast-paced, competitive environment.
- Exceptional leadership skills, with the ability to motivate, inspire, and lead cross-functional teams.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills to build strong relationships with clients and partners
- A commitment to upholding and promoting the values and ethos of a charitable organisation in all business activity.
About Us
We are the University of Southampton Students' Union (SUSU). Independent from the University, we're run by students, for students and our vision is that every student loves their time at Southampton.
As an employer, we offer a range of benefits:
- Holiday of 30 days per annum. In addition, there are eight closure holiday days during Easter and Christmas and eight bank holidays.
- Defined contributions pension scheme.
- Discounted bus passes (UniLink and Blue Star)
To find out more, visit our website here
You can easily apply using your CV and covering letter by clicking on 'Apply Now'.
For further information prior to submitting your application, please contact the People Team (suhr@soton.ac.uk)
Regretfully, SUSU is NOT a sponsoring organisation and is, therefore, not able to sponsor you for a visa if you require one (such as Tier 2) to work in the UK.
Please note feedback will not be provided if you are not shortlisted for interview.
SUSU is an equal opportunities employer that values a diverse workforce and we want to reflect the student body that we represent. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination and will ensure that our recruitment activities are mindful of equality and diversity matters.
Closing date: 1st June 2025
Interview Date: 10th June 2025
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