At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to support refugee learners in accessing master's degrees globally.
- Company: Join the Oxford Department of International Development, a leader in global development research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and contribute to meaningful change in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of refugees through impactful academic programmes.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree or equivalent experience in programme management and strategy delivery.
The predicted salary is between 49119 - 58265 £ per year.
The Oxford Department of International Development (ODID) is seeking to recruit a Senior Programme Manager, Academic Pillar who will be working within the Refugee-Led Research Hub (RLRH), based in the Refugee Studies Centre (RSC). As RLRH expands its global reach and programme portfolio, we are seeking an experienced senior leader to oversee and develop our Academic Pillar.
Managing a team of 8+ colleagues across multiple locations, the Senior Programme Manager will lead efforts to achieve RLRH’s goal of supporting 1,000 refugee and displacement-affected learners to enrol in master’s degrees worldwide by 2028. The role will drive the scaling and strategic development of the academic access portfolio, strengthening the systems and structures needed to deliver programmes effectively at scale.
The position is offered full time (37.5 hours per week) and is fixed-term until 30 September 2028 (with possibility of extension subject to further funding). The successful candidate will hold a postgraduate degree or have equivalent professional experience. They will have proven experience delivering organisational strategy through programme design, planning, resource management, and performance oversight. The ability to work independently, exercise sound judgement, and take accountability within specialist programme areas is essential.
At ODID we embrace and cherish our differences, and endeavour to be considerate and welcoming of all. We acknowledge societal inequalities and how these affect us, and those around us, personally and professionally. We hold an Athena Swan bronze award in recognition of our efforts to introduce organisational and cultural changes which promote equality, cherish diversity and create a better working environment for all. We are also taking active steps to promote race equality and reduce the risk of bias and discrimination.
We encourage all eligible candidates to apply for our vacancies and join us in pursuing our goals. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. As part of your online application, you will be asked to upload:
- CV (no more than 3 pages)
- Cover letter addressing the following points:
- Why this leadership role with RLRH is the right fit for you at this stage in your career.
- How your experience aligns with the key responsibilities and selection criteria.
- Confirmation of your availability to work from the Oxford office for a minimum of three days per week.
- A note contextualising your submitted work sample.
- One work product - in part or in full - that you led the development of and that is relevant to the responsibilities of the role. Where appropriate, this work product could also take the form of a writing sample.
Only applications received before 12 midday on Monday, 19 October 2026 can be considered.
Senior Programme Manager, Academic Pillar (Refugee-Led Research Hub) in Oxford 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.
