At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide executive support to the Vice-Chancellor and manage high-level operations.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford, a leader in global education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future in a dynamic environment while supporting impactful leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience in executive support and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 39424 - 47779 £ per year.
Location: Vice-Chancellor's and Registrars Office, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford
Salary: £39,424 - £47,779 per annum
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
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 ten 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 an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.
The Vice-Chancellor and Registrar’s Office supports the strategic leadership of the University, enabling the Vice-Chancellor to engage effectively with colleagues, partners, donors, government, and other stakeholders. Working at the centre of University decision-making, the team provides high-level coordination and operational support across a diverse portfolio of activity.
What We Offer
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays), 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.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options.
- Access to a vibrant community through social, cultural, and sports clubs.
About the Role
This is a highly visible role providing executive support to the Vice-Chancellor within a complex and fast-paced environment. You will help ensure that priorities are progressed effectively and that business is managed efficiently at the highest level of the University.
You will manage complex diary and correspondence activities, coordinate meetings, visits, travel, and engagements, and prepare high-quality briefings and communications. Acting as a key point of contact for senior colleagues and external stakeholders, you will handle sensitive matters with discretion, exercise sound judgement, and balance competing priorities.
The role also includes leading projects, initiatives, and events on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, working collaboratively across the University to deliver successful outcomes and support continuous improvement within a high-performing executive office.
About You
- Extensive experience providing executive support to senior leaders at executive, C-suite, or equivalent level.
- Strong organisational and administrative skills, including diary, correspondence, travel, and meeting management.
- Experience planning and delivering high-profile events and stakeholder engagements.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Strong IT skills, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently.
- Experience handling confidential information with discretion and sound judgement.
Application Process
To apply, please upload:
- A covering letter/supporting statement
- Your CV
- The details of two referees
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 19 June 2026. Interviews will take place face-to-face on 2, 3, 6 or 7 July 2026.
Senior Executive Officer in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the heart of one of the world's leading institutions. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, generous leave policies, and a vibrant community, you will thrive in a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and innovation. Join us in shaping the future while enjoying the rich cultural heritage of Oxford and the benefits of flexible working arrangements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Executive Officer in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Oxford through 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 Vice-Chancellor’s recent initiatives and the university's strategic goals. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around handling sensitive information and managing competing priorities. We want you to feel confident and articulate during the interview!
✨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 the team at the University of Oxford.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Executive Officer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your experience in providing executive support and how it aligns with the role. We want to see your personality, so don’t be afraid to let it show!
Tailor Your CV:When applying, tailor your CV to reflect the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We’re looking for strong organisational skills and experience with high-profile events, so make sure these stand out!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:In both your cover letter and CV, demonstrate your excellent interpersonal and communication skills. We value clarity and professionalism, so keep your language polished but approachable.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing benefits!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Senior Executive Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like managing diaries, coordinating meetings, and preparing briefings. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show how your experience aligns with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires strong organisational abilities, prepare examples that highlight your skills in managing complex schedules and prioritising tasks. Think of specific situations where you successfully handled competing priorities or organised high-profile events, as these will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Excellent communication is crucial for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might want to rehearse common interview questions and answers, focusing on how you can effectively engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, as this will be a big part of the job.
✨Demonstrate Discretion and Judgement
Given the sensitive nature of the role, be prepared to discuss how you've handled confidential information in the past. Share examples that illustrate your ability to exercise sound judgement and discretion, which are essential qualities for supporting the Vice-Chancellor effectively.
