Student Casework Manager (UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Role
The University of Sussex is seeking a Student Casework Manager to join its Student Experience Division, working alongside an existing Casework Manager to oversee student complaints, disciplinary matters, and criminal conviction processes.
This role sits at the heart of how the University responds to complex, sensitive, and high-risk student cases. You will ensure that matters are handled fairly, lawfully, and compassionately, in line with University regulations and national sector expectations. A significant part of the role involves managing cases relating to serious misconduct, including sexual misconduct, and supporting senior decision-makers to reach proportionate and defensible outcomes.
You will also act as the University’s primary contact with the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA), providing expert advice, managing institutional risk, and ensuring responses reflect sector best practice.
What You’ll Be Responsible For
In this role, you will:
- Oversee the effective management of student complaints, conduct, and disciplinary casework
- Lead on complex and sensitive investigations, applying a trauma-informed and student-centred approach
- Clerk Misconduct Panel Hearings and advise Chairs and senior leaders on process and decision-making
- Ensure all outcomes are fair, proportionate, legally sound, and policy-compliant
- Act as the University’s point of contact for the OIA, coordinating robust institutional responses
- Contribute to the ongoing development of policies, systems, training, and casework processes
- Monitor emerging sector guidance and legislative developments to ensure institutional compliance
- Work closely with colleagues across Professional Services and Academic Schools
- Support continuous improvement of the student experience while mitigating legal and reputational risk
About You
You will be an experienced casework professional with strong investigative skills and a calm, thoughtful approach to complex matters.
You will bring:
- Experience managing complex or high-risk cases, ideally within higher education, public sector, or criminal justice settings
- Proven ability to work sensitively with distressing or traumatic subject matter
- A strong understanding of fairness, natural justice, and procedural integrity
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a demanding workload independently
- Confidence using case management systems and digital tools
- Clear, professional communication skills with a wide range of stakeholders
- A strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, embedded in daily practice
- You will be educated to degree level (or equivalent professional experience).
About the Student Experience Division
The Student Experience Division exists to ensure that every student at Sussex feels supported, heard, and able to succeed. Led by the Student Experience Director, the Division brings together services covering:
- Complaints and Conduct
- Advice and Guidance
- Student Wellbeing
- Careers and Entrepreneurship
- Academic Quality
- Student Data and Records
We work closely with Faculties and Professional Services to create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
Why Work at Sussex
The University of Sussex is a research-led, internationally recognised university, known for its inclusive culture and commitment to social impact.
Our 150-acre campus sits next to the South Downs and is easily accessible by train, bus, cycling routes, and car. Staff benefit from flexible working arrangements, reduced parking rates, and a supportive approach to work-life balance.
Above all, Sussex values its people—and we aim to create a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported, and able to contribute meaningfully.
Visa and Right to Work
All work must be carried out in the UK.
This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants requiring sponsorship should review the University’s Skilled Worker Visa guidance before applying.
