At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead investment strategies to boost Oxfordshire's global economic position.
- Company: Enterprise Oxfordshire, a key player in the innovation economy.
- Benefits: Salary up to £70k, hybrid working, and opportunities for impactful leadership.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with a mission to elevate Oxfordshire's international profile.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Oxfordshire by attracting global investments and driving sustainable growth.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in inward investment and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 € per year.
Salary up to £70k (FTC to March 2028, extension subject to funding)
Oxfordshire / Hybrid
Drive global investment into one of the UK’s most powerful innovation economies.
The Opportunity
Oxfordshire is one of the UK’s most successful and internationally recognised economic regions, home to globally leading universities, pioneering research institutions and world-class innovation clusters. Enterprise Oxfordshire plays a central role in enabling that success – supporting business growth, attracting investment, connecting skills with opportunity and promoting the county on the global stage.
We are now seeking a strategic, ambitious and collaborative leader to attract the investment that will help unlock the county’s full potential. Reporting to the Director of Strategic Development & Programmes, you will play a pivotal role in attracting and securing high-value domestic and international investment, strengthening the county’s global position within the innovation economy.
You will lead the design and execution of a targeted investment strategy, develop a strong pipeline of opportunities, and manage key investor relationships from initial engagement through to successful delivery. Working at the interface of public and private sectors, you will help shape a compelling global proposition for Oxfordshire while ensuring that investment translates into inclusive, sustainable growth across the region.
The Organisation
Enterprise Oxfordshire has evolved from the county’s Local Enterprise Partnership into a new economic development and inward investment agency operating at the heart of the Oxfordshire innovation ecosystem. Working in partnership with local authorities, universities, businesses and national government, the organisation supports business growth, promotes inward investment and strengthens the skills pipeline for the region’s key sectors.
With funding secured through to 2028 and a refreshed governance structure being shaped, Enterprise Oxfordshire is entering an exciting new phase. Inward investment is central to this next chapter – with significant opportunity to elevate Oxfordshire’s international profile, deepen global partnerships and secure long-term economic growth.
Candidates
We are seeking a commercially astute and outward-facing leader with a strong track record of delivering inward investment, business development or economic growth at scale. You will bring experience of operating in complex partnership environments, with the credibility to engage senior stakeholders across government, industry and academia, both in the UK and internationally. A deep understanding of investment drivers, the ability to develop compelling value propositions, and a proven track record of securing investment and building pipelines will be essential.
Equally important will be your ability to build and lead a high-performing team, navigate complexity, and translate strategy into delivery. You will be an effective ambassador for Oxfordshire – confident representing the region on the global stage and building long-term relationships with investors, partners and decision-makers.
For a confidential discussion contact: andrew.barton@penna.com or 07922 386 432
You can review the full Job Description here
Closing Date: 23:59pm on Monday 8th June 2026
Head of Inward Investment employer: Enterprise Oxfordshire
Enterprise Oxfordshire is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in one of the UK's leading economic regions. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to shape strategic initiatives that drive global investment while working alongside top-tier universities and businesses. The hybrid work model and focus on sustainable growth ensure a balanced and rewarding career path in a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Inward Investment
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up prepared for interviews! Research the company and its recent projects, especially those related to inward investment. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to Oxfordshire's growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications this way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Inward Investment
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in inward investment and economic growth. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your ability to develop and execute targeted investment strategies. We’re looking for someone who can think big and has a proven track record of securing high-value investments, so share those success stories!
Highlight Collaborative Experience:Since this role involves working with various stakeholders, make sure to mention your experience in partnership environments. We love seeing examples of how you’ve engaged with government, industry, and academia to drive results.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Enterprise Oxfordshire
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding Oxfordshire's economic landscape and its key players. Familiarise yourself with recent investments and initiatives in the region. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how you can contribute to the county's growth.
✨Showcase Your Network
Highlight your existing relationships with stakeholders in government, industry, and academia. Be ready to discuss how these connections can be leveraged to attract investment. Demonstrating your ability to engage with senior figures will set you apart as a credible candidate.
✨Craft a Compelling Value Proposition
Prepare to present a clear and compelling value proposition for Oxfordshire. Think about what makes the region unique and how you would communicate this to potential investors. Being able to articulate this effectively will showcase your strategic thinking and vision.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams and managing complex projects. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles. This will illustrate your capability to lead a high-performing team and drive results in a collaborative environment.
