Principal Executive Officer

About the role

Are you an experienced office manager with a track record of supporting senior leaders, leading teams, and improving operational effectiveness? Join the Vice-Chancellor's Office at the University of Oxford as a Principal Executive Officer and play a key role in ensuring the smooth delivery of executive support services at the heart of the University. 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 - 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 Vice-Chancellor's Office sits at the heart of the University, supporting the Vice-Chancellor in advancing Oxford's strategic priorities and representing the institution nationally and internationally. The team enables effective decision-making, coordination and engagement across a complex organisation, ensuring that the University's leadership is supported by high-quality services, strong governance and effective collaboration. Working across a wide range of priorities and stakeholders, the office plays a vital role in helping the University fulfil its mission of excellence in research, education and public engagement. About the Role This is a rare opportunity to lead the operations of the Vice-Chancellor's Office, a team at the centre of decision-making within a world-leading university. Working closely with the Head of the Vice-Chancellor's Office, you will shape how executive support is delivered, ensuring the Vice-Chancellor and senior colleagues are equipped to focus on Oxford's strategic priorities. You will lead and develop a talented team, drive service excellence, and influence how a key executive function operates across a complex and globally recognised institution. No two days will be the same. You will build relationships with senior stakeholders across the University, coordinate activity across competing priorities, oversee business continuity and operational planning, and identify opportunities to improve systems and ways of working. This is a highly visible role offering genuine scope to make an impact, combining leadership, problem-solving and strategic coordination in an environment where your contribution will be valued and your influence felt. About You Substantial experience delivering high-level executive support to senior leaders within a complex and high-profile environment. Proven experience of leading and managing staff, including performance management, objective setting and professional development. Experience managing office operations or administrative services, including improving systems, processes and workflows to deliver excellent service. Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage competing demands and maintain continuity of service in a time-pressured environment. Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and work collaboratively across a wide range of internal and external partners. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience handling sensitive correspondence with diplomacy and professionalism. Demonstrable ability to manage confidential matters with discretion, integrity and sound judgement. Experience coordinating projects, activities or events involving multiple stakeholders and competing priorities. Application Process To apply, please upload: A covering letter/supporting statement Your CV The details of two referees Closing date: 12 noon 8 July 2026. Interviews will take place 21/22 July 2026, and will be held face-to-face. £49,119 to £58,265 per annum

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