Global University Systems is an international education group that empowers students to transform their lives through education. We believe education drives careers, lives, and society forward, enabling a brighter future for all. Our network of 30 institutions offers the broadest range of industry-relevant skills through inclusive, accessible, and digital-first learning. We currently educate around 122,000 students on campuses worldwide and have 20M+ unique subscribers to our courses. Our global ecosystem powers accessible digital learning and academic achievement

The Regional Director of Business Development is a leadership role within a private higher education group, responsible for driving growth through strategic partnerships, agent relationships, and cross-brand collaboration. This role will lead a growing team focused on B2B engagement and market expansion across multiple internal institutions and brands. This position requires a seasoned professional with expertise in business development, relationship management, and market strategy, coupled with a strong understanding of the higher education landscape. The ideal candidate is results-oriented, innovative, and thrives in a dynamic, target-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead and grow a high-performing business development team, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.

• Provide coaching, training, and professional development opportunities to enhance team performance and engagement.

• Establish clear performance metrics, monitor progress, and implement improvement strategies to ensure ambitious targets are met.

Strategic Business Development:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive B2B business development strategy to expand the institution's footprint in key markets.

• Identify and evaluate new partnership opportunities, including agents, institutional collaborations, and corporate partnerships.

• Serve as a market expert, providing insights on trends, competitor activities, and emerging opportunities in higher education.

• Lead negotiations for partnership agreements and contracts to maximize value for all stakeholders. B2B Relationship Management:

• Build and nurture long-term relationships with agents, institutional partners, and other stakeholders.

• Oversee the performance of existing partnerships, ensuring they deliver on agreed goals and objectives.

• Represent the organization at industry events, conferences, and meetings to enhance brand visibility and credibility.

• Design and implement engagement strategies to strengthen partnerships and foster mutual growth.

Operational Leadership and Collaboration:

• Work across multiple brands and institutions to align business development efforts with organizational priorities.

• Collaborate with marketing, admissions, and academic teams to optimize partnership-driven initiatives and outcomes.

• Ensure smooth integration of new partners into the organization’s operational framework.

• Monitor and analyze performance metrics, reporting on outcomes and using data to refine strategies.

Market Expertise and Expansion:

• Lead efforts to expand into new markets, leveraging data and insights to guide decision-making.

• Stay informed on regulatory changes, market trends, and competitive dynamics to maintain a strategic edge.

• Develop innovative approaches to business development that align with the institution's mission and goals

• Proven track record in business development, including managing partnerships and B2B relationships within the higher education sector.

• Strong experience in leading and developing teams, with a focus on performance and growth.

• Demonstrated success in achieving and exceeding revenue and growth targets.

• Expertise in working across multiple brands or institutional entities, with a focus on collaboration and alignment.

• Exceptional relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish long-term partnerships.

• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced environment.

• Proficiency in CRM systems, data analysis, and market intelligence tools.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, both written and verbal.

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree or professional training in recruitment, business, or a related field is a strong advantage.

• Willingness to travel nationally and internationally as required.

Please note this position is only available on our Consultancy agreement.

We acknowledge receipt of your resume for a position at Global University Systems and sincerely appreciate your interest in our company.

Global University Systems equal opportunity employer. We provide equal opportunities and are committed to the principle of equality regardless of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, record of offences, marital status, family status or disability. The post holder may be asked to undertake different or additional duties in line with business requirements at the request of their line manager. There is an expectation that all employees will maintain the values of the Group and will comply with the code of conduct as well as equality and diversity, health and safety and safeguarding policies