At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and deliver the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, supporting African graduate scholars at Oxford.
- Company: Join the Africa Oxford Initiative, fostering partnerships and impactful programmes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and the chance to make a difference in education.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career development opportunities in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Empower young African leaders and shape their educational journey at a prestigious university.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and proven programme management experience required.
The predicted salary is between 39424 - 47779 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Scholarships Manager to join the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) within the Nuffield Department of Medicine. The postholder will support the end-to-end delivery of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford, with a particular focus on strengthening leadership, onboarding and development programmes that provide tailored support to African graduate scholars at Oxford.
The Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) is a pan-University that brings together Oxford’s engagement with African institutions and researchers, fostering equitable partnerships and co-developing high-impact programmes. AfOx activities are structured under three pillars: Research, Education, and Innovation. The flagship programme under the Education pillar is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford, which supports passionate, locally rooted, and globally minded young Africans to undertake graduate studies. AfOx recognises that meaningful support extends beyond covering course fees and living costs; as such, the programme support includes providing bespoke leadership training programmes, networking opportunities, and tailored support for students before, during, and after their time in Oxford.
Your primary responsibility will be to support AfOx’s delivery of the scholarship programme from end to end with a specific focus on strengthening the scholars’ support programmes, namely: Leadership and Impact programme, Catch-up programme, Scholars’ Leadership Retreat, Leadership symposium and Onboarding programme. You will be responsible for planning, coordinating and delivering the scholarship programme, managing timelines, budgets, risks and resources to ensure high-quality outcomes.
The role includes acting as a key operational contact, building relationships with internal and external stakeholders, monitoring programme progress, analysing data to inform decision-making, coordinating meetings and committees, and evaluating programme impact to support continuous improvement. Working with a high degree of autonomy, the post-holder will ensure the programme objectives are achieved to time, budget, and quality standards, navigating challenges and driving high-impact outcomes.
It is essential that you hold a degree in a relevant discipline and have proven programme management experience across the full lifecycle, including budget monitoring and financial management. Strong analytical, organisational, problem-solving and communication skills are required, alongside experience engaging a wide range of stakeholders and an understanding of African Higher Education and/or working with African students. Previous university administration experience in a student-focused role is also essential. Experience of African higher education institutions, pastoral support, leadership development, curriculum design or scholarship programmes would be advantageous.
This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract for 36 months and is funded by the Mastercard Foundation. Interviews are scheduled for Friday 23 October 2026. Salary (£): Standard Grade 7: Salary in range £39,424 - £47,779 per annum (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
Scholarships Manager – Africa Oxford Initiative employer: Corehr
As a leading research institution, we offer an exceptional environment for postdoctoral researchers to thrive, particularly in the vibrant city of Liverpool. Our commitment to collaboration across prestigious universities fosters a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and inclusivity, while our hybrid working model supports a healthy work-life balance. With ample opportunities for professional growth and a focus on diversity, we are dedicated to creating a meaningful and rewarding experience for all employees.
