Student Wellbeing Services Manager
Job Description
About the University
The University of Plymouth is a forward-thinking and innovative institution situated in a scenic coastal city. We are committed to putting students at the heart of everything we do and offer staff excellent opportunities for professional growth, development, and progression.
The Role
As a senior member of the Student Services Management Team, you will lead the university’s provision of wellbeing, counselling, and mental health support. Your work will directly contribute to enhancing the student experience, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting student wellbeing alongside academic success.
You will manage and lead three operational teams, balancing strategic oversight with day-to-day operational support. This includes overseeing complex case management and risk assessment, developing long-term service plans, and ensuring high-quality service delivery across all wellbeing functions.
Key responsibilities include:
Providing strategic and operational leadership across wellbeing, counselling, and mental health teams
Leading on safeguarding and incident response processes within a multi-disciplinary team
Supporting staff wellbeing and encouraging innovation within the department
Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to enhance services
Using data to inform decision-making, prepare reports, and contribute to university-wide planning
Representing student wellbeing at senior levels, including discussions at Board level
Ensuring services are responsive to student needs, scalable, and efficient through technology and process improvements
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a highly capable and visionary leader who can deliver impactful change through innovation, strong leadership, and a deep understanding of student wellbeing in higher education.
Essential qualities:
Proven experience managing wellbeing or mental health services in a large organisation
Strong leadership and motivational skills, with experience managing multi-disciplinary teams
Deep understanding of safeguarding, risk management, and compliance within a university context
Strategic thinking with the ability to respond to rising service demand and competing priorities
Strong analytical skills, including confidence in interpreting data and producing reports
Experience using digital tools to streamline service delivery and support self-service access for students
A collaborative and inclusive leadership style, committed to equality, diversity, and supporting underrepresented groups
Ability to remain calm under pressure and model positive wellbeing practices, especially during peak academic periods
What We Offer
Joining the University of Plymouth means becoming part of a supportive and ambitious institution. Our staff benefits include:
Generous annual leave: 25 days plus bank holidays and additional university closure days
Pension scheme: Competitive employer contributions
Family-friendly policies: Enhanced parental leave
Health and wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme, on-site nursery
Flexible working: Supportive of work-life balance
Sustainability initiatives: Cycle to Work and Electric Car schemes
Staff discounts: Access to a range of retailer offers
Learning and development: Opportunities for professional growth and training
Full details: University of Plymouth Staff Benefits
Our Commitment to Inclusion
The University of Plymouth is an inclusive and welcoming community. We actively support equality, diversity, and inclusion through initiatives such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
How to Apply
Please submit your application online, ensuring your supporting statement addresses the essential criteria listed in the job description and person specification.
For informal enquiries, please contact:
