At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a transformative programme to enhance professional services at the University of Oxford.
- Company: Join the world’s leading university, renowned for innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous family leave scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while making a real impact in a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading complex change programmes and excellent stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The University of Oxford is seeking an experienced Programme Director to lead the delivery of an ambitious, institution-wide transformation programme focused on professional services.
Location: University Offices, Oxford OX1 2JD
Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract (24 – 36 Months)
About Us
Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to 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.
The Professional Services Programme (PSP) is a major change initiative designed to improve how professional services are planned, delivered and sustained across the University, supporting our core missions of education and research. Working across a highly devolved and complex organisation, the Programme Director will provide senior operational leadership to drive delivery, benefits realisation and long-term impact.
What We Offer
- 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
- Lead the planning, execution and governance of a large, multi-stream change programme.
- Translate strategic objectives into a clear delivery roadmap and prioritised programme plan.
- Build and lead a high-performing programme team, working closely with academic and professional services colleagues across divisions and central teams.
- Shape and embed service design principles, operating models and workforce approaches for professional services.
- Oversee programme finances, benefits tracking and assurance, ensuring value for money and measurable outcomes.
- Act as a senior ambassador for the programme, building trust, momentum and adoption across the University.
About You
- A strong track record of leading complex, organisation-wide transformation or change programmes.
- Experience of working in higher education, the public sector or similarly federated environments.
- Advanced programme and portfolio management expertise, including governance, risk and business case development.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the credibility to influence senior leaders across organisational boundaries.
- Strong financial acumen and experience managing significant programme or operating budgets.
- Experience of technology-enabled change and working alongside digital teams.
Application Process
To apply, please upload the details of two referees. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 23 January. Interviews will take place in February, and will be held in person.
Programme Director in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead transformative initiatives within a world-renowned institution. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, generous leave policies, and a vibrant community, you will thrive in an inspiring environment that fosters professional growth and innovation. Join us in shaping the future while enjoying the benefits of flexible working arrangements and a supportive culture that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Director in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Oxford on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Professional Services Programme. Understand its goals and challenges, and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your past experiences have prepared you for leading complex transformation programmes. Use specific examples that highlight your skills in stakeholder engagement and financial management.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the University of Oxford.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Director in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in leading complex transformation programmes. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Programme Director, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Programme Director, you'll need to lead a high-performing team. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. We love seeing real-life stories that illustrate your impact!
Engage with Our Values:Familiarise yourself with the University of Oxford's mission and values. In your application, reflect on how your personal values align with ours, especially around innovation and community. This will show us that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for our culture.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is received and considered. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about us and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Programme Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the Professional Services Programme. Understand its goals, challenges, and how it aligns with the University’s mission. This knowledge will help you articulate how your experience can drive the programme's success.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your track record in leading complex transformation programmes. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced, how you overcame them, and the impact of your leadership on previous projects.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would engage with various stakeholders across the university. Prepare to discuss your approach to building trust and momentum, and how you would ensure buy-in from senior leaders and teams involved in the programme.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since managing significant budgets is crucial for this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with financial oversight. Bring examples of how you've tracked benefits and ensured value for money in past programmes.
