At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead health and safety assurance initiatives to support teaching and research at a world-renowned university.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford, ranked as the world's leading university for ten years.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and generous family leave schemes.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to excellence and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety culture in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree and senior health and safety qualification required; leadership experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 65336 - 75439 £ per year.
Are you ready to establish and lead a new institution-level capability within our health and safety management structure and support the University’s core mission of teaching and research? Join our team in the Safety Office at the University of Oxford in this high-profile role which will enable an evidence-based, action-oriented risk management and compliance environment, helping to make a difference within a globally renowned institution.
Location: Multi-site in Oxford, based at Occupational Health and Safety Office, 10 Parks Road, Oxford, with overseas travel by exception.
Salary: £65,336 - £75,439 per annum
Contract: Full Time (37.5 hours), Permanent Contract
About Us: The Safety Office supports the University in its strategic aim of delivering high standards of health and safety management. Our services support staff, students, contractors and visitors, whether they are based in Oxford or elsewhere. We aim to provide practical solutions across a wide range of activities, including research, teaching, maintenance and capital projects.
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.
What We Offer: Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:
- 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.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme.
- 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: The Head of Health & Safety Assurance will establish and lead a new institution-level capability within our health and safety management structure and support the University’s core mission of teaching and research. As part of a continued commitment to our EveryDaySafe improvement programme, the People Strategy, and the University’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030, this critical role will have a positive impact on staff, students and visitors. We aim to ensure the University is a place of work that fosters an inclusive, supportive and safe work environment that allows individuals to meet their potential.
Reporting to the Director of Occupational Health and Safety, this new unit will sit within the University’s Occupational Health and Safety service, but retain appropriate independence from the operational delivery of health and safety services via the Safety Office. With sponsorship and oversight from the University’s Council and Safety Executive Group (SEG), this is a high-profile role in enabling an evidence-based, action-oriented risk management and compliance environment. You will be instrumental in enhancing an independent, data-driven perspective on safety performance across the University’s academic divisions (Medical Sciences; Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences; Social Sciences and Humanities), Gardens, Libraries and Museums, Oxford Lifelong Learning, and University Administration and Services. This will ultimately enable a primary objective of the reduction of institutional risk through strengthening oversight, decision-making and interventions across a wide range of health and safety risks and compliance requirements.
The role’s activities will be steered by the Safety Executive Group and the Director of Occupational Health and Safety. It will complement that of the University’s appointed internal and external auditors, external regulators and of divisional and departmental teams. You will create effective internal and external stakeholder relationships which will be key to successful delivery. This is an exciting time to join the team to help drive and implement a next phase of safety cultural and system improvement through excellence in assurance.
About You:
- Degree or equivalent experience
- Senior professional qualification in health and safety (such as NEBOSH Diploma) and evidence of continuing professional development in a health and safety leadership capacity
- Health and safety senior auditing experience against relevant management standards eg BSI ISO 45001, Leadership and Management of Health and Safety in Higher Education Institutions
- A proven track record in successfully creating and embedding three lines of defence-based health and safety assurance frameworks in a large organisation
- Track record in the leadership, direction, development and line management of health and safety teams
- Excellent leadership level understanding, and experience, of environments with a wide range of safety hazards for example biological, remote fieldwork, building related, visitor attractions
- Proven collaboration skills in a federated or devolved organisation
- A proven record of effective engagement with internal and external stakeholders, including highly developed interpersonal skills and the ability to form positive working relationships at all levels of the organisation including for example board members and directors
- Excellent oral and written communication skills including listening, noticing, questioning, influencing, reporting and presentation skills
- Demonstrated project management skills with effectiveness in planning and achieving deadlines eg from audit idea through to action completion
- Data savvy, analytical and technically advanced skills eg in the use of data management, analysis and presentation tools and systems specifically with health and safety data from multiple sources and in multiple formats
- Excellent understanding of legal, regulatory and compliance requirements and frameworks relevant to health and safety
- Experience of working in the higher education sector or in a culturally similar environment
- Experience of working in a large, complex and devolved organisation
Application Process: To apply, please upload:
- The completed Selection Criteria Evidence document
- Your CV
- The details of three referees
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 20 November 2026. Interviews are likely to take place on 02 December 2026 and will be held in person or over Teams. Details will be confirmed after shortlisting.
Contact Person: Ffion Fry
Vacancy ID: 188783
Contact Phone: Closing Date & Time: 20-Nov-2026 12:00
Pay Scale: STANDARD GRADE 10
Contact Email: uas.talentacquisition@admin.ox.ac.uk
Salary (£): 66,608 - 76,913
Head of Health and Safety Assurance employer: University of Oxford
The Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment where finance professionals can thrive. With a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, along with generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave and a robust family leave scheme, employees are supported in both their professional and personal lives. This role not only provides the opportunity to influence strategic financial decisions within a world-renowned department but also fosters continuous growth and development in a vibrant academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Health and Safety Assurance
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like University of Oxford.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at University of Oxford.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like University of Oxford, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Health and Safety Assurance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at University of Oxford.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at University of Oxford.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to University of Oxford. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at University of Oxford. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research University of Oxford’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
