At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the domestic management of a historic college and support a vibrant community.
- Company: Join Balliol College, one of the oldest and most welcoming colleges at Oxford.
- Benefits: Be part of a lively environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student experiences in a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Senior management experience in hospitality, education, or facilities management is essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Balliol is a constituent college of the University of Oxford. With a good claim to being the oldest of all the Oxford colleges, Balliol has been a hub of learning and community since its foundation in 1263. As one of the larger colleges within the University, it is home to roughly 860 students, with undergraduates making up just under half of the student body. The College also employs over 80 Fellows, 50 lecturers, and about 180 support staff. While academic excellence is at the core of Balliol’s mission, visitors are often struck by the College’s informal and welcoming atmosphere.
Reporting to the Master, as Head of the College, the Domestic Bursar will be responsible to the Governing Body for the overall domestic management of the College. The Domestic Bursar is a leader and role model for staff whose daily work is crucial for the smooth running of the College. The Domestic Bursar’s teams are in many ways the face of the College and deliver the first experience which all our students, guests, and visitors receive upon arrival.
Strong candidates will bring substantial senior management experience within a complex organisation, such as the hospitality, higher education, or facilities management sectors. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional relationship-building abilities, with a clear commitment to supporting, empowering, and valuing staff. They will be adaptable, highly organised, and capable of managing a broad and varied portfolio of responsibilities while maintaining clear priorities and effective oversight. Familiarity with the collegiate structure of the University of Oxford would be advantageous, though it is not essential.
This is a great opportunity to join a lively, forward-looking College. The closing date for applications is Friday 19 June 2026. Applications should be addressed in the form of a CV and covering letter. First interviews will take place at the College on 14 or 15 July 2026. Final interviews will be on 22 or 23 July 2026. Balliol College is an equal opportunities employer. All applicants are asked to complete a separate confidential Equal Opportunities Monitoring form to help us fulfil our duties in this regard. Applicants should let us know if they require reasonable adjustments for any part of the recruitment process.
Domestic Bursar employer: Balliol College, University of Oxford
Balliol College, as one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges within the University of Oxford, offers a unique and enriching work environment that fosters academic excellence and community spirit. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that values staff contributions, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development in a vibrant collegiate setting. With a commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities, Balliol is an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in higher education.
Contact Details:
Balliol College, University of Oxford Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Domestic Bursar
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Balliol College on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Balliol's history and values. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for the college’s mission and how you can contribute to its community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about your past experiences in management. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Balliol family.
We think you need these skills to ace Domestic Bursar
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Domestic Bursar role. Highlight your senior management experience and any relevant skills that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to Balliol!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your relationship-building abilities and commitment to staff empowerment. We love seeing candidates who can connect their experiences to our welcoming atmosphere at Balliol.
Show Your Organisational Skills:In your application, demonstrate how you've managed diverse responsibilities in previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can juggle tasks while keeping priorities clear, so don’t hold back on sharing examples of your organisational prowess!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our lively community at Balliol. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Balliol College, University of Oxford
✨Know Your College
Familiarise yourself with Balliol College's history, values, and community atmosphere. Understanding its unique culture will help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Domestic Bursar, you'll be leading teams and managing diverse responsibilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your leadership style, relationship-building abilities, and how you've empowered staff in previous roles.
✨Be Organised and Prioritise
The role requires strong organisational skills. During the interview, discuss how you manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively. Consider sharing specific tools or methods you use to stay organised in a complex environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the college's operations, challenges, and future goals. This shows your engagement and helps you assess if the role aligns with your career aspirations. It’s also a great way to demonstrate your understanding of the collegiate structure.
