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- Tasks: Lead a £30m global research initiative to improve education in developing countries.
- Company: Join the Blavatnik School of Government, dedicated to enhancing global governance and policymaking.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, a great pension scheme, and fun social events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education while working in a dynamic, supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong project management skills and experience in research or policy projects required.
- Other info: Work closely with international partners and contribute to transformative educational outcomes.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
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Client:
University of Oxford
Location:
Oxford, United Kingdom
Job Category:
Other
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EU work permit required:
Yes
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Job Reference:
Job Views:
4
Posted:
08.07.2025
Expiry Date:
22.08.2025
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Job Description:
Blavatnik School of Government, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX26GG
About the Blavatnik School of Government
Our vision is of a world better led, a world better served and a world better governed. We are a global school committed to improving the quality of government and public policymaking worldwide, through three routes: teaching, generating research with impact, and engaging with governments and practitioners.
What we offer
The School is a collaborative, friendly, and dynamic department based in an award-winning building in Oxford. We host regular events and talks with well-known guest speakers – all of which are open to staff. On the social side, we have regular coffee/cake mornings for staff, a family-friendly Halloween event, and Christmas and summer parties. As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days’ annual leave
- Family leave schemes and a comprehensive range of childcare services
- Cycle loan scheme and discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
- Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
More information about working at the School can be found on our website.
About the role
The Blavatnik School of Government is looking for a highly skilled and experienced Senior Programme Manager to play a key role at the heart of a major £30m global research and policy initiative. The What Works Hub on Global Education (WWHGE) aims to transform learning outcomes for children in developing countries by generating new evidence, and by working with policymakers and NGOs to deliver the best teaching at scale. This post will sit at the centre of our operations team, working closely with the Programme Director and across the programme’s three pillars (research on implementation science; capacity building in partner countries; and evidence translation and synthesis with a particular emphasis on the second of these). This appointment offers a unique opportunity to take on significant operational responsibilities in a high profile multidisciplinary research and policy consortium in a mix of country settings, with a focus on the global south.
About you
You will have outstanding strategic, operational, and financial skills, will be used to dealing with people in different contexts and countries, managing complex projects, and experienced in working closely with donors. You will have strong diplomacy skills. With experience of developing fund proposals, you will have a flexible approach, be motivated, resilient and possess a willingness to adapt to the changing needs and priorities of the programme. You will have experience of project management on a research/policy project or programme and have excellent Project Management skills enabling you to deliver an ambitious programme of activity on time and on budget.
Application process
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Senior Programme Manager (WWHGE) employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Programme Manager (WWHGE)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education and policy sectors. Attend relevant conferences or webinars where you can meet people who are already working in similar roles or at the Blavatnik School of Government. This can help you gain insights into the organisation's culture and priorities.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the current projects and initiatives of the What Works Hub on Global Education. Understanding their goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience in managing complex projects by preparing specific examples that highlight your strategic, operational, and financial skills. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the key stakeholders involved in the programme and understand their perspectives. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your ability to engage effectively with diverse groups, which is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Programme Manager (WWHGE)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Programme Manager position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, particularly in strategic, operational, and financial management.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in project management, especially in research or policy projects. Emphasise your skills in managing complex projects and working with diverse stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your motivation for the role and how your background aligns with the goals of the Blavatnik School of Government. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your diplomacy skills and ability to adapt to changing priorities.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for any grammatical errors or typos, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Understand the Role and Its Impact
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Senior Programme Manager at the Blavatnik School of Government. Familiarise yourself with the What Works Hub on Global Education and how it aims to transform learning outcomes. This will help you articulate how your skills align with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your project management experience, particularly in research or policy contexts. Highlight your ability to manage complex projects, work with diverse teams, and deliver results on time and within budget.
✨Demonstrate Strong Diplomacy Skills
Given the role's emphasis on working with policymakers and NGOs, be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated challenging interpersonal situations. Discuss your approach to building relationships and fostering collaboration across different cultures and contexts.
✨Prepare for Questions on Adaptability
The job description mentions the need for flexibility and resilience. Think of instances where you've had to adapt to changing priorities or overcome obstacles in your previous roles. This will show your potential employer that you can thrive in a dynamic environment.
