At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to deliver impactful programmes for governments and public sector organisations.
- Company: Join Saïd Business School, a leader in Executive Education with a focus on societal challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days holiday, hybrid working, and a range of generous university perks.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace that values unique perspectives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing your leadership skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Proven project management experience and strong relationship-building skills required.
The predicted salary is between 48600 - 58500 £ per year.
About The Role
Park End Street, Oxford and Egrove Park, Kennington
Grade 9: £56,623 - £65,336 per annum including the Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per annum
Permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week)
At Saïd Business School, we deliver world‑class Executive Education that equips leaders to tackle society’s most complex challenges. Within our Executive Education portfolio, the Government and Public Value (GPV) function plays a vital role in partnering with governments, public sector organisations and mission‑driven institutions across the globe. We are seeking an exceptional Associate Director, Client Engagement and Programme Delivery to lead a high‑performing delivery team, drive operational excellence and ensure outstanding client experiences across a diverse and strategically significant portfolio. This is a senior leadership role for a commercially astute, relationship‑driven project management professional who thrives in complexity and is motivated by impact. You will operate at the intersection of strategy, operations and client engagement—ensuring our programmes meet the highest standards of quality, rigour and impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee the GPV client delivery team, providing clear direction and accountability.
- Manage strategic projects in support of the GPV Director, including planning and onboarding of major clients.
- Embed strong governance practices, proactively managing risk and ensuring transparent reporting.
- Collaborate closely with Sales, Customer Relations, Faculty, Associate Fellows and cross‑functional teams to align delivery with strategic objectives.
- Spearhead initiatives to enhance processes, systems and ways of working.
You will bring substantial senior‑level project management and team leadership experience, with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and prioritise effectively. You will hold a recognised professional project management qualification (such as APM or equivalent) and demonstrate strong business and commercial acumen, including budget oversight and cost management. With proven experience managing strategic client relationships, you will be a collaborative and influential leader who builds strong internal and external partnerships.
Further information on this role can be found in the job description.
About Us
At Saïd Business School we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities to bring their unique perspectives and experiences to our team. Join us to build a brighter, more equitable future, where we celebrate diversity, advance equity, and nurture inclusion across everything we do.
Benefits
- Generous holiday allowance of 38 days including bank holidays
- Hybrid working
- Membership of the Oxford staff pension scheme
- Discounted bus travel
- Subsidised onsite catering
- Cycle loan scheme
- Plus, many other University benefits
All applications must include a CV, Supporting Statement/Cover Letter and Current Salary. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 10 March 2026 at 12.00 noon. Interviews will likely be held in the week commencing 16 March 2026. Please note, this vacancy may close earlier than advertised if we receive a high number of suitable applications.
Are you interested in joining Saïd Business School’s talent pool and/or receiving our job alerts? Register at https://careers.sbs.ox.ac.uk/registration.aspx.
Associate Director, Client Engagement and Programme Delivery (Government and Public Value) in Oxford employer: SBS Careers
Saïd Business School is an exceptional employer that champions a diverse and inclusive work environment, offering generous benefits such as 38 days of holiday, hybrid working options, and a supportive culture focused on employee growth and collaboration. Located in Oxford, our commitment to operational excellence and impactful client engagement empowers employees to thrive while tackling society's most complex challenges alongside a high-performing team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, Client Engagement and Programme Delivery (Government and Public Value) in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Saïd Business School on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in government and public value. Show us that you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely passionate about making an impact in this field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! We love hearing about your past experiences, so be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams and managed complex projects successfully.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, Client Engagement and Programme Delivery (Government and Public Value) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Associate Director, Client Engagement and Programme Delivery. Highlight your project management experience and any relevant qualifications, like APM, to show us you’re the right fit for this senior leadership position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you’re passionate about working with governments and public sector organisations. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational excellence and enhanced client experiences in your previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to lead high-performing teams and manage complex projects. We want to see how you’ve successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams and built strong relationships in your past roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Saïd Business School.
How to prepare for a job interview at SBS Careers
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Associate Director, Client Engagement and Programme Delivery. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and how they align with your experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past that demonstrate your project management skills and ability to lead teams.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a senior leadership role, it's crucial to convey your leadership style during the interview. Prepare to share how you've successfully led teams in the past, managed complex projects, and built strong client relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Understand Their Values
Saïd Business School values diversity and inclusion, so be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to these principles. Think about your experiences working in diverse teams or with various stakeholders and how you can bring those insights to enhance their culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions. Inquire about the current challenges facing the GPV function or how success is measured in this role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
