Diplomatic Practice Co-ordinator: Foundations of Diplomacy Pre-Master's Course

The Diplomatic Practice Co‑ordinator is responsible for delivering introductory‑level courses in diplomatic practice to UK and overseas graduate students with little or no formal experience in the field of diplomacy. The role requires academic oversight of several diplomatic practice modules, which currently comprise four ten‑week modules taught over two terms: Diplomacy in Practice I and II, Public Diplomacy, and Diplomatic Simulations. Each module consists of 10 x 90‑minute weekly seminars. The position involves leadership, teaching, assessment, and coordination of educational visits in the UK and overseas that expose students to the world of diplomacy in practice.

The postholder will bring substantial professional diplomatic experience and will be able to integrate academic theory with practical insight. Working closely with the Programme Director and professional services team, the postholder will play a key role in ensuring that students gain both academic foundations and practical understanding of how diplomacy operates in real‑world contexts. This is a 0.4 FTE position, available on a permanent contract.

Oxford Lifelong Learning in the Department for Continuing Education is seeking to appoint a Diplomatic Practice Co‑ordinator for the Foundations of Diplomacy Pre‑Master's Course, which is delivered through the Department's Professional and Open Access Courses section. The course is a full‑time, six‑month programme taught in person in Oxford from late September to late March and combines theoretical instruction with experiential learning and applied practice.

Qualifications and Experience

• You are an engaging and knowledgeable educator with a strong background in diplomacy, international relations, or a closely related field.
• You bring significant experiential insight into the evolving world of diplomacy and are confident designing and delivering dynamic, discussion‑led teaching on topics such as diplomatic practice, international institutions, negotiation, and soft power.
• You enjoy working closely with students in small‑group settings, supporting their academic development and helping them build strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• You are comfortable operating beyond the classroom and have the confidence and professional credibility to engage with external stakeholders, including embassies, international organisations, NGOs, and think tanks.
• You are highly organised and capable of coordinating educational visits and field trips, and you are enthusiastic about accompanying and mentoring students during these experiences, including international travel.
• You have experience designing and marking a range of assessments relevant to the field such as policy briefs, position papers, and presentations, and are committed to providing clear, constructive feedback that supports student progression.
• You are collaborative, forward‑thinking, and contribute to curriculum development, ensuring your teaching reflects current developments in global diplomacy and international affairs.
• You work effectively with academic and administrative colleagues, uphold high standards of delivery, and are committed to maintaining quality, inclusivity, and professionalism in all aspects of your work.
• Ideally you will have experience creating interactive learning environments, using simulations and role‑play to bring complex diplomatic processes to life.
• Above all, you are passionate about preparing students for careers in international fields and are motivated to deliver an intellectually rigorous and practically relevant learning experience.

Benefits

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans