At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the operational and financial management of a groundbreaking AI research programme.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's BOLD Lab, a leader in AI research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, excellent pension, childcare services, and more.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative initiative shaping the future of AI and scientific excellence.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking a full time Senior Programme Manager to play a pivotal role in helping to establish BOLD Lab, creating the operational foundations required to support long‑term scientific excellence, innovation, talent development and sustainable growth. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, academic leadership, professional services teams, funders and external partners, the postholder will lead the operational, financial and organisational management of this major multi‑institutional programme and help establish the structures, processes and partnerships required to support its ambitious research and doctoral training agenda. The post is fixed term to 14th December 2027.
About The Role
This is an opportunity to join The British Open‑ended Learning and Discovery (BOLD) Lab, a major new UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funded initiative that will establish a world‑leading AI research laboratory at the University of Oxford. Bringing together more than 80 researchers from Oxford, UCL and Imperial under one unified vision, BOLD Lab will pursue ambitious, high‑risk research to advance the fundamental science of artificial intelligence and address some of the field's most important challenges. The programme will create a unique collaborative environment where researchers, students and partners work together to develop transformative new ideas, train future leaders in AI, and strengthen the UK’s position at the forefront of global AI research. Through its pioneering approach, BOLD Lab aims to unlock breakthroughs that could shape the future of AI and deliver lasting scientific, economic and societal impact. Supported by an initial investment of around £8million, with the potential to receive further £22million extending the investment over six years, BOLD Lab represents one of the UK’s most ambitious investments in fundamental AI research. BOLD also has access to national compute resources (3M GPU hours on Isambard for the first 1.5 years) and we are working hard to reach 5000 H100 equivalent compute capacity in total across industry and government support.
About You
You will be educated to degree level or possess equivalent experience with evidence of strong intellectual, numerical and analytical skills. With experience of working at a strategic level in a complex environment, you will demonstrate the ability to manage change, develop teams and engage effectively with unfamiliar technical material. This should include a degree, ideally, though not necessarily, in a relevant scientific discipline. Excellent oral, written communication, presentation, negotiating and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to gain the confidence of a wide range of people, are also required.
What We Offer
- 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
The University also runs an enormous number of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.
Senior Programme Manager in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant research environment that fosters creativity and innovation in neuroscience. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to grow professionally through various development opportunities. Located in the historic city of Oxford, the university provides a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Programme Manager in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Senior Programme Manager at University of Oxford!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like University of Oxford or be willing to refer you for that Senior Programme Manager position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from University of Oxford who’s on the lookout for their next Senior Programme Manager star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Senior Programme Manager role at University of Oxford!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Programme Manager in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at University of Oxford. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at University of Oxford. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
