DirectorofCommercial Services
Thank you for your interest in being our next Director of Commercial Services
We’re delighted that you’re considering joining us at what is a genuinely exciting time for the Students’ Union We’re in the middle of a period of growth and transformation, guided by a relatively new Senior Leadership Team and an ambitious, forward-looking strategy designed to deliver long-term sustainability and real impact for our students.
Our Commercial Services currently generate around £2 3 million in annual turnover, with most of our income coming from our bars, catering and events In 2024, we invested more than £1 million in our bar and nightclub facilities and that investment is already paying off, with bar and events income growing by an impressive 33%. We’re proud of that success, and even more excited about where we can go next.
As Director of Commercial Services, you’ll provide the strategic leadership and operational direction for a diverse and expanding portfolio, including: Mojo’s Bar and Catering; 360 Nightclub; UP Coffee Shop; Merchandise and retail operations; three franchise stores; Business Development – conferences, events, and media sales; and Estates and building management
You’ll lead and support a workforce of over 100 brilliant staff, alongside our external cleaning and security partners It’s a big, busy, and varied remit - and no two days will ever be the same Earlier in 2025, we completed a comprehensive commercial review and have since introduced a refreshed management and operational model, supported by a brand-new staffing structure We’re currently recruiting into several key roles across Business Development, Events and Partnerships and Technical Services This means you’ll be stepping into a newly formed, energised team with a strong platform already in place to drive the next phase of growth
With solid foundations, a clear strategy and a vibrant student community at the heart of everything we do, this role offers an exciting opportunity to diversify and grow income, strengthen commercial performance, and create even better experiences for students
If you’re commercially sharp, people-focused, and excited by the idea of shaping something special within a values-driven organisation we’d love to hear from you
Cat Redding Chief Executive
Jack Maddock Chair of Trustees
ABOUTREADINGSU
Reading Students' Union (Reading SU) exists to improve the lives of over 19,000 University of Reading students, every day.
An independent, student-led charity, everything we do is student-inspired and, as a not-for-profit organisation, all funds raised through our activities are passed right back into the Students’ Union to benefit students.
Our charitable purpose is the advancement of the education of students at the University of Reading for the public benefit, and we achieve this by:
Promoting the interests and welfare of students at the University of Reading during their course of study and representing, supporting and advising students; Being the recognised representative channel between students and the University of Reading and any other external bodies; and Providing social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities and forums for discussions and debate for the personal development of our students
Our mission is simple: We strive to help students be their best, most authentic selves We celebrate the diverse backgrounds, identities and lived experiences that make up our student body, and pride ourselves on creating spaces and opportunities where everyone feels they belong and are empowered to grow, thrive and achieve their goals.
Our vision is to be the strong, inclusive, and dynamic Students’ Union that is at the absolute heart of student experience. We are dedicated to actively listening, responding, and constantly evolving alongside student needs. To be a place for everyone, where we inspire & empower students to change the world.
DELIBERATE
AMBITIOUS
We are trailblazers We pioneer big ideas, push boundaries, and champion innovation to launch our students to success
We are data-informed and deliberate We use insight to drive thoughtful, strategic change, advocating for our students and promoting equity. By focusing our energy where it matters most, we amplify all voices and protect student wellbeing
DISRUPTIVE
Bold and courageous, we challenge the status quo to drive transformative change With a rebellious spirit and a pragmatic mind, we embrace dynamic action, constantly evolving to create a fairer, more just future We stand up for the things we believe in
We are hopeful for the future We believe university is about finding your purpose and your place We create spaces where students can thrive, build connections, and push for change We are right here, cheering them on every step of the way
RESPONSIBLE
Responsible and socially conscious, we are a force for good committed to creating a sustainable future for all We recognise our collective ability to shift mindsets and champion progression Through our actions, we safeguard and empower our students to build a brighter, fairer world
We're unique and we’re proud of it Every penny spent in our commercial outlets goes right back into supporting the fantastic activities and services we offer to our students
Eat,Drink,Shop
At Reading SU, we're all about creating unforgettable experiences We want every student to live their best uni life, no matter their interests From our Summer Ball and sell-out union club nights, to chilled events to help students unwind, there's always something happening And let's not forget our Freshers' Week which is packed with events and activities to help students discover new interests and opportunities
Events&Entertainment
Reading SU is the heart of the University campus. It's where students come to relax, grab a bite, get their hands on University merch, or enjoy a drink Our cafes, bars, and fruit and veg market are all here to provide for students, staff, and visitors We're more than just a place to eat and drink, we're a community hub Whether it’s a coffee break, a hearty meal, the best night out, or even a haircut, students can find it at the Students’ Union
3SIXTY
3SIXTY is a multi-purpose venue which hosts an array of activities, events and entertainment throughout the day and night, to cater to everyone’s taste This is our largest venue and after a £3 million refurbishment in 2018, hosts 3 bars over 2 levels The area provides space for all of the Union’s major events including the weekly fresh fruit and veg market, Job Fairs, Vintage Fair, big debates, and our popular Wednesday Union club nights
Finance&Funding
Our annual income is just over £5 million. We receive some of our funding from the University which is given to us each year in the form of a block grant Our commercial services, bars, catering, events, and business development generate over £2 million in turnover Collectively, they make a significant contribution to the SU and student experience at Reading.
CommercialStaffingStructure
OURSTUDENTLEADERS
As an independent, democratic membership organisation, we are unbiased when working with the University on issues affecting students and campaign for the changes that our members want to see Each year, our student members elect five Full-time Officers who are the driving force behind our organisation, making sure students' voices, ideas and opinions are heard
EllaWithington MartinaHudson TiamKoravand SaraPawar EndelynThompson
OurLocation
Imagine your new place of work, set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland and one of Britain’s top green spaces. Not only is Whiteknights campus a thriving community hosting a wide range of activities and events, it also offers a wonderful place to relax when you need a bit of downtime
Our main address is Whiteknights, Pepper Lane, Reading, RG6 6EH We also have a presence at the London Road and Greenlands Campuses
FlexibleWorking
We’re keen on making sure our colleagues thrive both at work and in their personal lives We know that a lot of the Director of Commercial Services work will be most impactful when delivered in person, and as a senior leader of the organisation, we also want them to be a champion of positive well-being and work-life balance So, we’re happy to talk about flexible and hybrid working options during the application and selection process We can’t guarantee to accommodate every suggestion, but we do promise to work together to find an approach that will help both you and Reading SU be at our best
Benefits&Perks
A total of 35 days’ holiday, increasing with length of service, and a holiday purchase scheme
Paid volunteering leave
Enhanced parental leave, 18 weeks’ full pay for new parents and occupational sick pay
Access to health and fitness facilities on campus at a reduced rate for you and your family
Onsite nursery for 0-5 year olds offering quality childcare in a convenient location
Perkbox and a free NUS Totum Card
Take part in University events, including the Summer Ball
Onsite car parking and car share scheme
Access to the University Library
We believe strongly in the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We’re proud of the work we do and constantly strive to create a fairer and more equitable experience for everyone in our community
Our campaigning includes lots of successful work to break down barriers for our members, including:
Decolonise the Curriculum - to ensure that the academic experience at Reading is racially diverse and culturally enriching
Never OK - to highlight the importance of respect and tolerance in our University community Knight’s Pride - championing LGBTQ+ students in sport.
I ♥ Consent - to raise awareness and understanding about sexual assault and misconduct Time To Talk - to support the mental health of our students
Despite all of our hard work, we know that we’re not as diverse as we’d like to be as a workplace and we’re actively working to change that.
We recognise that we achieve more with a talented group of diverse individuals, who bring different experiences and perspectives that enable us to represent the full range of student voices at the University of Reading
We would particularly welcome applications from candidates from Global Majority backgrounds and those who are disabled, as these groups are currently under-represented within our Senior Leadership Team
JobTitle
SalaryRange
Reportsto
Responsiblefor
Location
WorkingHours
Purpose
Director of Commercial Services
£60,727 per annum
Chief Executive Officer
Trading Operations Manager, Business Development and Events
Manager, Retail Manager, Estates Manager
Whiteknights, Pepper Lane, Reading, RG6 6EH
37 5 hours per week, to be worked flexibly and in line with operational and seasonal demands
To develop and lead a commercial strategy that maximises trading income and profitability of the students’ union for future investment. You’ll ensure the delivery of commercial activities which further the student’s union’s wider strategy, aims and values. You’ll lead our commercial team to success setting clear key performance indicators, developing plans and strategies to increase and diversify our income
Responsibilities
Strategic Planning and Development
Develop and implement a commercial strategy aligned with the goals and values of the Students' Union
Ensure that our commercial services are supported by robust financial models / plans
Identify opportunities to expand and enhance our commercial offer through market research and analysis
Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team to align commercial initiatives with the overall organisational strategy
Ensure long-term horizon scanning, particularly of other students’ unions and the Reading night-time economy to ensure sound investment and strategic decision-making
Financial Management
Prepare and manage the commercial services budget, ensuring financial targets are met
Monitor and analyse financial performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing appropriate measures
Ensure robust agreements with vendors, suppliers, and partners to optimise costeffectiveness and service quality
Produce well researched capital investment plans with clear return on investment targets
Manage the delivery of capital investment projects in partnership with University Estates
Responsibilities(continued)
Stakeholders
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, including student representatives, staff, Trustees and University colleagues
Collaborate with external partners, sponsors, and suppliers to enhance services and explore partnership opportunities
Represent the Students' Union at relevant events, meetings, and industry forums
Compliance
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the licensed premises, ensuring compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and health and safety standards in keeping with good practice. Oversee the bar and catering services, including stock control, purchasing, pricing and quality
Participate in appropriate quality award schemes eg Best Bar None, Purple Flag Scheme as agreed with the CEO
Marketing and Promotion
Ensure that pricing and ticketing strategies to maximise profit and engagement are in place and subject to regular review and revision
Ensure there are clear marketing strategies to attract customers and promote commercial services as a preferred destination for students including the use of relevant digital and social media platforms
Continuously evaluate and improve customer experience, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Oversee customer feedback mechanisms to gather insights and drive improvements
Staff Leadership and Development
Lead, motivate and inspire a team of commercial services staff, providing clear direction, guidance, and support.
Foster a positive departmental culture, encouraging teamwork, collaboration and excellent customer service
Identify staff training and development needs, organising appropriate training programs to enhance skills and knowledge
Delivery
Ensure that arrangements are in place to keep all business premises clean and in good order
Ensure the right systems and processes are in place to support the needs of the business and drive performance eg: rota software, EPoS and stock control
Handle customer complaints and resolve issues promptly and effectively
Ensure that admission decisions and any licensee bans are monitored to ensure that all student demographic groups are treated fairly and equitably
Manage the relationship and service contract with our SIA contractor ensuring value for money and excellent customer service are achieved
Other Duties
·Attend board and committee meetings as appropriate.
Be an active participant in SLT meetings
·Produce reports as requested
Engage in own professional development
Be able to give and receive constructive feedback
·Other duties commensurate with the role
ABOUTYOU
Experience
Developing commercial strategies to increase income.
Leading high-volume commercial operations, ideally within a hospitality or similar environment
Establishing and consistently achieving commercial performance targets aligned with strategic goals
Researching, evaluating and obtaining buy-in to new business propositions.
Skills,Abilities&Knowldge
Able to develop and present strategy, plans, and proposals at a senior level
Strong financial acumen and ability to ensure effective budgeting, financial analysis and cost control
Demonstrable ability to lead and manage high performance, by motivating and inspiring diverse individuals and teams.
Capable of engaging, influencing, collaborating and negotiating with stakeholders at all levels
Able to apply strategic thinking and creative problem-solving skills.
Strong knowledge of legislation, regulations and health & safety standards relating to commercial operations and licensed premises.
An understanding of Reading SU’s diverse membership and how this shapes the SU’s commercial services
Values&Behaviour
A demonstrable commitment to Reading SU’s strategy and values
Able to demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation
An interest in, and commitment to, working as part of a democratic, student-led organisation and to championing equity and inclusion.
GENERALINFO
TheProcess CanIUseAI?
We always strive to deliver a fair, inclusive and structured recruitment processes that gives you a clear sense of what to expect at each stage
The process usually looks like the one outlined below – but if you make an application, we’ll send you a more detailed breakdown ahead of time
Step 1: Application
Start with a simple application form hosted on our online portal, Hireful You will be asked to complete an online application form which includes the 3 tailored questions on the next page In addition to this, you will also be asked to upload your most recent CV.
Step 2: Longlist / First Stage Interviews
These are conducted remotely via Microsoft Teams and give us a chance to explore your application in more detail - particularly your experience, motivation and alignment with the organisation’s goals Themes and topics of interview questions are shared with you prior to your interview.
Step 3: Final Selection Day
Final interviews are held in person, and will likely include a task, presentation or scenario-based questions to explore your suitability in more depth. You’ll have the chance to meet key individuals and get a feel for the culture of the organisation
We get it - writing application letters and answering questions takes time, and it’s sometimes hard to find inspiration and know where to start We therefore recognise that some candidates might use AI (such as Chat GPT) to help you write your application
This can lead to some challenges that might impact your application So, we’ve put together some tips to help you avoid some of the common pitfalls. Read them here
ImposterSyndrome?
Impostor Syndrome is the overwhelming feeling that you don't deserve your success It can convince us that we are not as intelligent, creative, or talented as we may seem It often strikes when applying for a job, and has long been thought to disproportionately affect marginalised groups If you recognise feelings of imposter syndrome when applying for a senior role, you'll find some useful tips here
We invite you to join a live Q&A session on Monday 2nd February at 2pm with Cat Redding (CEO) and Michelle Berry (Interim Commercial Director) The session is optional and is aimed to help candidates learn more about the role and ask any questions you may have If you would like to attend, please email sannah@atkinsonhrconsultingcouk and a joining link will be provided
ApplicationTimeline
ClosingDate: Monday 9th February 2026
FirstStageInterviews: Tuesday 17 February th
YourApplication
SecondStageInterviews: Wednesday 25th February
Please apply online, after reading the full candidate pack. You will be asked to complete some personal details, send an up-to-date CV, and answer the following questions (maximum 400 words):
What makes you a great fit for Reading SU, and how do your values align with ours? Tell us about your innovative approach to developing engaging services and events What skills would you bring to the role that you believe would be most impactful in increasing Reading SU’s commercial income?
