Strategic Communications Manager

The world’s leading University is looking for a leading communications professional to handle some of the world’s biggest higher education stories.

Rated number one in the recent Times Higher Education global rankings for seven consecutive years, Oxford is a global pace-setter. Interest in the University has always been world-wide and is now at record levels, given our role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Staying at number one requires continuous change, investment in brilliant people and great resources – and great communicators to tell the world about our achievements and plans.

The University is seeking an experienced Strategic Communications Manager with outstanding all-round skills to lead on some of our most important initiatives for a period of maternity cover. Major new buildings, research funding announcements and international partnerships are all likely to feature in a busy work schedule. The postholder will devise media strategies for these initiatives, delivering high-profile positive coverage across print, broadcast and online channels. They will also help frame and articulate the University’s stance on a range of issues in the UK’s fast-changing higher education environment.

The post involves close liaison with the University’s most senior members and involvement in our most ambitious and exciting plans. You will be a brilliant writer with strong news sense and a sound understanding of how journalism works. You’ll also be a fast learner with a grasp of detail, as well as being diplomatic, persuasive and resilient in a demanding media environment. From the outset, you will be required to research, write and distribute articles, news releases and statements on a variety of topics, and maintain a wide range of high-level internal and external contacts.

This is an exceptional opportunity with an exceptional University. The term of the post will run from early January until the end of August 2023.

Only applications received before 12:00 noon on Friday 18 November can be considered.