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- Tasks: Lead exciting capital projects at one of the world's most prestigious universities.
- Company: The University of Oxford, a historic institution with a global impact.
- Benefits: 30 days annual leave, hybrid working, and extensive personal development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and research while managing high-value projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading large-scale capital projects and exceptional stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse community committed to innovation and excellence.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The University of Oxford is seeking to appoint a Project Director within its Estates Capital Projects team—an exceptional opportunity to lead a range of industry and sector-leading projects across one of the world’s most exciting and historic estate portfolios. The University aims to lead the world in research and education for the benefit of society both in the UK and globally. Oxford’s researchers collaborate with academic, commercial and cultural partners worldwide, generating high-quality research and enabling innovation with significant social, policy and economic impact.
The University’s buildings and estate are integral to its academic mission and contribute greatly to Oxford’s reputation as a city of learning, heritage and culture. They form an essential part of the city’s architectural fabric and provide an inspiring environment for students, staff, visitors and the wider community.
Oxford delivers an impressive capital programme with an annual budget of approximately £200 million and a total programme value approaching £1 billion. Reporting to the Director of Capital Projects, the Project Director will lead schemes across multiple academic divisions and administrative departments, managing a diverse portfolio of capital projects typically up to £100m, with some exceeding £100m. You will take responsibility for project planning, design development, procurement, risk management, governance and stakeholder engagement, maintaining oversight of programme, budget and technical quality throughout the project lifecycle.
The successful candidate will bring proven experience of leading large-scale capital projects (typically £50m+) from inception through to completion. Highly delivery-focused and commercially astute, you will demonstrate a strong track record of ensuring exceptional quality and value across a wide variety of projects.
Given the breadth of internal and external stakeholders involved across the University, this role also demands exceptional stakeholder management skills, alongside the credibility and confidence to engage and influence at a senior level.
The University offers a compelling benefits package that includes 30 days of annual leave (excluding public holidays) and hybrid working arrangements to promote a healthy work-life balance. Employees have access to extensive personal and professional development opportunities, an excellent contributory pension scheme, life cover, salary sacrifice, subsidised sports centre membership and cycle loan schemes. Additionally, the package offers supportive childcare services and generous family leave, ensuring comprehensive support for employees' well-being and family needs.
The candidate pack can be viewed here. For a briefing discussion please contact our retained advisor Nicholas Coppard at MRG. Applications should consist of a CV and a Project List and should be sent to . Closing date for applications is 5th April 2026. Interviews will take place on 24th April 2026. The University of Oxford is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse community. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, and we particularly encourage applications from individuals who are under-represented in our workforce.
Project Director employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who have ties to the University of Oxford. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the University’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about contributing to their mission and values. Tailor your examples to highlight your relevant experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience with large-scale capital projects and how it aligns with the University’s goals. We recommend rehearsing with a friend or mentor to get comfortable with your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Director role. Highlight your experience with large-scale capital projects and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to manage budgets and stakeholders effectively.
Craft a Compelling Project List: Your Project List should detail your most significant projects, especially those over £50m. Include specifics about your role, the challenges faced, and how you delivered exceptional quality and value throughout the project lifecycle.
Showcase Stakeholder Management Skills: In your application, emphasise your stakeholder management skills. Provide examples of how you've engaged and influenced senior-level stakeholders in previous roles, as this is crucial for the Project Director position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. Make sure to submit your CV and Project List before the closing date to ensure your application is considered!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the types of projects the University of Oxford is involved in. Familiarise yourself with their capital programme and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially regarding large-scale projects over £50m.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Given the diverse range of stakeholders at the University, it's crucial to demonstrate your exceptional stakeholder management skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged and influenced senior-level stakeholders in past projects, highlighting your ability to navigate complex relationships.
✨Emphasise Your Delivery Focus
The role requires a highly delivery-focused mindset. Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you've ensured exceptional quality and value in your projects. Use metrics or outcomes to illustrate your success and how you maintained oversight of budget and technical quality.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the University’s vision for its estate portfolio and how the Project Director role contributes to that. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.