At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead initiatives to foster an inclusive culture and combat bullying at a world-renowned university.
- Company: Join the University of Oxford, a global leader in education and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of leave, flexible working, and generous family leave policies.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on equality, diversity, and inclusion in a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Experience in EDI initiatives and knowledge of the Equality Act 2010 required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion professional looking to make a meaningful impact? Join our People Department team at the University of Oxford to make a difference within a globally renowned institution.
Location: 4 Worcester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BX
Contract: Full Time or 0.8FTE considered, Fixed Term Contract (1 year with the possibility of extension)
About Us
Spanning the historic streets of the “city of dreaming spires”, the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.
The Equality and Diversity Unit (EDU) is part of the People Department and provides expert advice and practical support on equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) matters.
What We Offer
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
- One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
About the Role
This is an opportunity to play a leading role in shaping an inclusive culture across one of the world's leading universities. Working as part of the Equality and Diversity Unit (EDU), you will lead the University’s programme of work to prevent and respond to bullying and harassment and help to create collaborative and inclusive environments where staff and students can thrive. Drawing on your specialist expertise, you will develop evidence-informed policy, training and interventions that strengthen positive organisational culture, build confidence in reporting and support departments to prevent and respond effectively to bullying and harassment. You will work closely with the Chief Diversity Officer, People Leadership Team, academic divisions, professional services and external partners to influence practice across the collegiate University. This is an important role with scope to shape the University’s wider inclusive culture agenda over time. Alongside leading work on bullying and harassment, you will contribute to organisational change that embeds inclusion, belonging and respect across the University, using insight, collaboration and expert advice to deliver lasting impact.
About You
We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate:
- Significant experience of leading equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives that have delivered measurable organisational or cultural change within a large, complex organisation.
- In‑depth knowledge of the Equality Act 2010 and the practical application to organisational policy, practice and culture.
- Experience of developing and implementing evidence-informed approaches to preventing and responding to bullying and harassment, including designing policy, guidance, training or organisational interventions.
- Experience of working directly with senior leaders and building productive relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
Selection Criteria
- Demonstrated expertise in equality, diversity, and inclusion, with experience delivering collaborative, solution-focused approaches.
- Excellent knowledge of the Equality Act 2010 and recent employment legislation, and the practical application of these duties within organisational policy and practice.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to build positive relationships and networks, to work collaboratively, and to motivate, engage and influence others, to achieve change at all levels.
- Considerable experience of preventing and responding to bullying and harassment, with proven ability to develop and implement interventions that contribute to inclusive organisational cultures.
- Ability to communicate sensitively, tactfully and persuasively about harassment issues, with individuals at different levels of seniority within the University and externally, and to manage challenge and conflicting points of view constructively.
- Excellent knowledge of the higher education regulatory and policy landscape relating to equality, diversity, inclusion, and the practical implications for policy, practice and organisational culture within a higher education institution.
- Excellent written communication skills, in particular the ability to draft clear, succinct and relevant material (such as briefings, committee papers, policy documents and practical resources), and the ability to make issues accessible to a non-specialist audience.
- Experience of using quantitative and qualitative data to determine organisational priorities, inform practical policy development, and monitor the progress and impact of initiatives.
- Experience of working directly with senior leaders to develop, influence and deliver strategic organisational priorities for positive cultural change.
- Ability to work independently in a complex environment and excellent time management, with the ability to deal with deadlines and manage conflicting demands.
- An understanding of the challenges of and opportunities for achieving change within a large, complex institution.
- Experience of working across a broad range of equality, diversity and inclusion topics, demonstrating the ability to apply expertise across different areas of policy, practice and organisational change and adapt to emerging organisational needs.
- Experience of leading and developing individuals or teams, including past line management experience.
Sponsorship and Right To Work
This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa. Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.
Application Process
To apply, please upload:
- A covering letter/supporting statement
- Your CV
- The details of two referees
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 3 August 2026. Interviews will likely take place on 10 August or 13 August, and will be held face to face in Oxford.
EDI Advisor, Inclusive Culture employer: Corehr
Sheffield Hallam University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Smart Interactive Technologies Lab. As a Research Fellow, you will have access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects aimed at improving maternal health outcomes, all while benefiting from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth and development. Join us in making a meaningful difference in healthcare through responsible and human-centred digital innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EDI Advisor, Inclusive Culture
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Corehr!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Corehr.
We think you need these skills to ace EDI Advisor, Inclusive Culture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Corehr. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Corehr and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Corehr. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Corehr's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Corehr.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Corehr will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Corehr and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
