At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR, operational management, and ensure a supportive work environment.
- Company: Join the Faculty of Classics at the University of Oxford, a top centre for ancient studies.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of leave, excellent pension, childcare services, and more.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic academic setting while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Strong interpersonal skills and experience in administration or management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Faculty of Classics seeks to appoint a Deputy Head of Administration to join its professional services leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity to take on a newly established senior role within one of the world's leading centres for the study of the ancient world. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the Faculty's strategic and operational objectives, leading people-related services and contributing to the effective management of a complex and dynamic academic environment.
This full‑time, permanent post offers a hybrid working arrangement of a minimum of four days per week on‑site and up to one day working from home during term time. The postholder will work closely with academic and professional services colleagues across the Faculty, the Humanities Division and the wider University.
About the role
The Deputy Head of Administration will lead a broad portfolio of responsibilities spanning human resources, operational management, health and safety, risk management, information security and regulatory compliance. The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Administration and Finance (HAF) and the Chair of the Faculty Board to develop and implement people strategies, oversee recruitment and personnel processes, support organisational change, and provide expert advice on staff management matters. They will play a key role in fostering an inclusive and supportive working environment and ensuring the effective implementation of University policies and procedures.
The postholder will also oversee the operational management of the Faculty's dedicated building, the Ioannou Centre, including facilities, security, maintenance planning and events oversight. As Departmental Safety Officer, they will lead on health and safety matters and support the Faculty's risk management and compliance activities.
The Deputy Head of Administration will line manage members of the professional services team, represent the Faculty on divisional and University‑wide committees and working groups, and deputise for the HAF as required. This is a varied and influential role requiring excellent judgement, strong interpersonal skills and the ability to balance strategic priorities with operational delivery.
What we offer
Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family-friendly and financial benefits, including:
- 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
Deputy Head of Administration in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The Faculty of Classics at the University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where professional growth is actively encouraged. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, the role of Deputy Head of Administration comes with generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, a contributory pension scheme, and access to childcare services, all while being part of a prestigious institution dedicated to the study of the ancient world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Administration in Oxford
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We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Administration in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at University of Oxford. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to University of Oxford and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at University of Oxford. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to University of Oxford's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
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Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
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