Deputy Head Of University Communications

TN United Kingdom; Oxford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oxford is seeking a Deputy Head of University Communications to lead strategic communication initiatives. This role requires an experienced professional skilled in media relations, communication strategy, and public affairs, tasked with enhancing the university's reputation in a competitive global landscape. The position offers a collaborative environment with access to exclusive benefits, including generous leave and a commitment to flexible working.

Benefits

38 days of annual leave

Generous family leave schemes

Hybrid and flexible working options

Contributory pension scheme

Discounted commuting options

Access to social and cultural clubs

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in media or communications at a national level.
• Proven track record in devising communication strategies.
• Strong writing and editorial skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Manage communications for major institutional projects.
• Devise media strategies for announcements and partnerships.
• Advise senior leaders on communications.

Skills

Media relations

Communication strategies

Digital content creation

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Deputy Head Of University Communications, Oxford

col-narrow-left

Client:

University of Oxford

Location:

Oxford, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

-

EU work permit required:

Yes

col-narrow-right

Job Reference:

cd455077053f

Job Views:

14

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

col-wide

Job Description:

University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD Public Affairs Directorate,University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD Rated number one in the Times Higher Education global rankings for the past nine years, Oxford University is an international pace-setter. Staying at number one requires continuous change, brilliant academics and cutting-edge facilities – and top-level communicators to tell the world about our achievements and plans. The University’s Public Affairs Department is seeking an experienced Deputy Head of University Communications Manager with outstanding all-round skills, who will lead on communicating our most important projects and strategies worldwide. About Us The Public Affairs and Communications Directorate (PAD) plays a strategic and unique role at the University of Oxford. It is responsible for Oxford’s institutional communications, reputation management, strategic media relations, and public affairs. PAD works across six specialist teams—News & Information, Research & Innovation Communications, Campaigns & Digital Communications, Brand & Design, Events, and Public Affairs—to deliver joined-up storytelling that amplifies Oxford’s global voice and strategic priorities.PAD advises the Vice-Chancellor and senior leadership, manages high-profile media and reputational issues, leads institutional campaigns, and supports internal communications to over 15,000 staff. It works in close partnership with Divisions, GLAM, Colleges, and University Administration and Services to ensure a coherent and consistent voice for Oxford. What We OfferWorking 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 RoleThis is a rare opportunity for an experienced, motivated and highly-skilled communications professional to manage some of the biggest stories in global higher education.An exciting and ever-changing work schedule will include major new funding announcements, international partnerships and strategic University developments. The postholder will devise media strategies for all these initiatives, delivering high-profile positive coverage across print, broadcast and online channels. They will help frame and articulate Oxford’s stance on a range of issues in the UK’s fast-changing higher education environment, as well as helping to handle a steady stream of day-to-day media inquiries.The post involves advising and liaising closely with the University’s most senior members and involvement in our most ambitious and exciting plans. You will be a strategic thinker and an accomplished 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 strategies, news releases and statements on a variety of topics, and maintain a wide range of high-level internal and external contacts. About You• Extensive experience working in media or communications at a national level, ideally in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.• A strong track record of devising and executing communication strategies to support institutional priorities.• Superb writing and editorial skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.• Experience managing sensitive issues and providing communications advice to senior leaders under pressure.• Effective organisational and planning skills; able to manage competing demands and deadlines.• Strong digital and social media awareness, with experience creating or coordinating digital content.• Demonstrated understanding of AI developments and their application in modern communications, including use of AI tools for content creation, media monitoring, and audience insights.• Experience evaluating communication impact using defined metrics and feeding insights back into planning. Sponsorship and Right To WorkThis role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa.