Programme Director – Professional Services Programme

Vice-Chancellor & Registrar's Office

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

Salary: Competitive Salary

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. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

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

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 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

Reporting to the Deputy Registrar, you will:

• 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 would be

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 23 January.

Interviews will take place in February, and will be held in person.