Country Manager supporting a Russell Group University

Role/Title: Country Manager

Location: Delhi

The Opportunity

At Acumen (Part of the Sannam S4 Group), we are redefining what it means to partner with clients in higher education. We take ownership of our clients challenges and deliver practical, future-ready solutions crafted with passion, intelligence, and commitment.

We are looking for a motivated and dynamic professional to represent our client University in India. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in higher education, research collaborations, and government partnerships, who is eager to make an impact by strengthening academic, research, and institutional engagement between India and UK.

Youll work in a culture that values innovation, collaboration, diversity, and professional growth. Join us and help expand the universitys footprint in India while contributing to meaningful academic and research partnerships.

Role Summary :

The Country Manager will enhance the universitys engagement in India, focusing on both student recruitment and building research and institutional partnerships, especially with government bodies.

The candidate will work closely with the universitys international office and senior leadership to promote its programs, facilitate collaborations, and implement strategies that increase visibility and impact in India.

The ideal candidate will bring excellent communication skills, digital literacy, and a professional presence to represent and build the universitys brand with integrity and ethics.

This role requires strong relationship-building skills, a deep understanding of international higher education systems, and experience managing research or academic partnerships in India

Key Responsibilities

• Represent the university at outreach events (online and offline), engaging with prospective students, parents, and education counselors.
• Develop and strengthen research partnerships and academic collaborations with Indian universities, research institutions, and government agencies.
• Identify opportunities for joint programs, faculty/student exchanges, and collaborative research projects.
• Provide accurate information and advice to prospective students, partners, and government bodies about the universitys academic and research strengths.
• Support marketing and communication strategies to increase visibility in India.
• Manage follow-ups with students, institutional partners, and government contacts to maintain strong engagement.
• Build and maintain relationships with alumni, schools, higher education institutions, and government stakeholders.
• Attend education fairs, conferences, and policy forums relevant to higher education and research collaboration.
• Spearhead the end-to-end execution of data-driven marketing and recruitment strategies to accelerate pipeline growth, enhance brand positioning, and consistently meet organizational enrollment or hiring targets
• Advise on new recruitment and partnership opportunities to expand the universitys presence.
• Support digital and social media activities aligned with outreach plans.
• Assist with planning and executing events, information sessions, and partnership discussions.
• Compile activity reports, partnership updates, and recruitment progress reports.
• Coordinate logistics for delegations, faculty visits, and government meetings.
• Conduct market intelligence and share updates on higher education and research policy developments in India.
• Track project budgets and expenses where relevant.
• Line management of up to 3 staff members based in India
• Plan and conduct events targeted to offer holders and enquirers to support Acumen's conversion strategy for the University

Information and reporting

• Maintain and update key contact databases (students, institutions, government agencies, research bodies).
• Submit timely reports on recruitment, research collaborations, and government engagement.
• Maintain accurate records of events, meetings, and outcomes.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Masters degree (preferably in STEM or related disciplines).
• A postgraduate qualification in business, international relations, or education will be considered a strong advantage.
• Familiarity with the UK or other international higher education systems is desirable.
• Minimum 8 years of professional experience in the higher education sector
• Experience working with or for universities, research institutions, or government agencies on collaborative or partnership projects.
• Experience in managing or supporting research or academic collaborations in India or internationally.
• Overseas study or work experience (preferably UK, or other major higher education hubs).
• Experience in designing and executing marketing and outreach campaigns in the education or research sector.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of Indias higher education and research ecosystem.
• Proven ability to build and manage relationships with government bodies, universities, and research organizations.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong organizational, analytical, and reporting skills.
• Willingness to travel across India and work flexible hours (including evenings/weekends as required).

Benefits

• Gain valuable industry exposure, enhance your professional network, and build skills that can boost future career opportunities
• Be part of a globally recognised organisation in international education

Website Address: www.acumen.education

Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acumen-edu/