Careers and Employability Officer

About Us: 

Coventry University, founded in 1843, is a forward-looking, modern institution with a proud tradition of providing high-quality education. Coventry University Kazakhstan will open its doors in September 2024 to the first cohort of students at its brand-new campus which will provide world-class facilities for students, including interactive study spaces, a vibrant social space, a well-stocked library, and café facilities. Offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees Coventry University Kazakhstan proudly stands as the first British university campus collaboration in the heart of Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. Coventry University Kazakhstan is the trading name of Coventry Kazakhstan LLP which owns and operates the modern city-centre campus in the heart of Astana and in collaboration with Coventry University provides Coventry University programmes.

Job Purpose:

To support students in their career development by providing tailored career advice, enhancing employability skills, organizing career-related events, and facilitating connections with employers. Additionally, to lead international student recruitment efforts, manage academic mobility programs, and develop international partnerships in alignment with the University’s global strategy.

Reports to: Head of Academic Support

Main Duties and Responsibilities

1. Career Guidance and Employability Support

• Help students identify career goals, strengths, and opportunities.
• Assist with CV writing, cover letters, job applications, interview techniques, and career planning.
• Organize workshops, seminars, and training sessions on employability skills such as communication, leadership, time management, and networking.
• Maintain and update career resources, job boards, and employment-related materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with employers, industry partners, and local businesses to create job opportunities, internships, and placements.
• Organize job fairs, recruitment events, and employer talks.
• Provide guidance and support to students who wish to study abroad.
• Assist with academic credit transfer processes and ensure that the mobility aligns with their educational goals.

2. International Student Recruitment

• Develop and implement recruitment strategies for international students in designated countries.
• Represent Coventry University Kazakhstan (CUK) overseas and in the UK at exhibitions, partner universities, schools, and colleges.
• Manage agent networks, including training, application management, performance monitoring, and relationship development.
• Provide high-quality market intelligence and data to inform international recruitment strategies.
• Promote and support international teaching partnerships and alumni relations.
• Facilitate visits by academic staff to overseas locations and host visits from international contacts at CUK.

3. Managing Student and Faculty Mobility Programs

• Coordinate student and staff exchange programs, including application processes, selection procedures, and logistics.
• Assist students with study abroad opportunities, academic credit transfers, and visa requirements.
• Handle administrative aspects of mobility programs, including visa applications, accommodation, insurance, and travel arrangements.
• Monitor and evaluate the success of mobility programs and ensure compliance with university policies and legal requirements.

4. Developing Partnerships and Networking

• Establish and maintain relationships with branch campuses, foreign universities, academic institutions, and key stakeholders such as the British Council and Ministries of Education.
• Negotiate and manage Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and partnership agreements with international institutions.
• Represent the University at international conferences, fairs, and events.

5. Organising Events and Information Sessions

• Plan and host information sessions, orientations, and workshops for students and faculty interested in mobility programs.
• Provide updates on available scholarships, funding opportunities, and application deadlines.
• Organize and host visits from overseas contacts to CUK.

6. Monitoring and Reporting

• Keep accurate records of career events, employer partnerships, and mobility participants.
• Track employment trends and industry demands to inform career services.
• Prepare reports on career development initiatives, mobility program outcomes, and international recruitment efforts.
• Manage recruitment activities within the agreed budget and deadlines.
• Provide advice and expertise on international student recruitment to academic and administrative departments.
• Develop and maintain productive relationships with external partner organisations, including government bodies and sponsors, to contribute to recruitment targets.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• A degree in careers guidance, human resources, education, or a related field.
• Previous experience in career counselling, academic mobility, and international student recruitment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of the local job market, career pathways, and recruitment processes.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups of individuals.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Proficiency in career development tools and platforms such as LinkedIn.
• Familiarity with international education policies, visa processes, and academic partnerships.
• Passion for helping individuals achieve their career goals and promoting global education initiatives.

Additional Requirements

• A passion for helping individuals achieve their career goals.
• Proficiency in career development theories and practices.
• Familiarity with digital tools and platforms for career development, such as LinkedIn and other similar platforms.

• Availability for international travel and flexibility to work outside normal office hours when required.

Benefits: 

• Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience. 

• Professional development opportunities. 

• Collaborative and supportive work environment. 

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the university community. 

Coventry University Kazakhstan is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

The University is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and expects all staff and those connected to the University to share this commitment.

This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of Coventry University Kazakhstan and help shape the future of education, upholding our tradition of excellence and innovation.