Principal Executive Officer

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.

Location: University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford , OX1 2JD

Salary: £49,119 - £58,265 per annum

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About Us

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.

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.

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

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

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 8 July 2026.

Interviews will take place on 21/22 July 2026, and will be held face-to-face.