Events Manager

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oxford seeks an Events Manager to join its Innovation & Engagement team, leading the planning and delivery of high-profile events. This position supports a flagship initiative driving innovation growth across Oxfordshire, demanding strong management skills, collaborative ability, and experience in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

38 days of annual leave

Generous family leave schemes

Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

Contributory pension scheme

Sustainable commuting options

Access to social, cultural, and sports clubs

Qualifications

• Significant experience in event management within large organizations essential.
• Ability to manage multiple projects to high standards.
• Experience in marketing or promoting events is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee OSIT’s events programme managing logistics and budgets.
• Collaborate with University teams and external partners for successful events.
• Ensure events align with OSIT’s strategic goals.

Skills

Planning

Coordination

Communication

Problem Solving

Stakeholder Management

Tools

Digital tools for event management

Job description

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Robert Hooke Building, Oxford OX1 3PB

The University of Oxford is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Events Manager to join the Innovation & Engagement team in Research Services. This role is a unique opportunity to support a University-led flagship initiative that is driving innovation-led growth across Oxfordshire. The postholder will lead the planning and delivery of a strategic programme of high-profile events that elevate the region’s profile as a globally leading innovation hub.

Location: Robert Hooke Building, Parks Road, OX1 3PR

Salary: £38,674 - £46,913 per annum

Contract: Fixed Term Contract (2 years)

About the Role

The Oxfordshire Strategic Innovation Taskforce (OSIT) is a major collaborative initiative led by the University of Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor to unlock and accelerate regionally anchored, nationally significant growth. Over the next two years, OSIT will deliver high-profile engagements, communications, and events to accelerate investment, unlock infrastructure development, attract corporate partners, and support inclusive innovation across local communities. A public launch event in November 2025 will be supported by a national and international communications campaign to elevate the programme’s visibility and ambition.

The Events Manager will oversee OSIT’s events programme, managing logistics, communications, budgets, and stakeholder relationships across a portfolio of activities. You will collaborate with University teams and external partners to ensure events align with OSIT’s strategic goals, reinforce its brand and values, and position Oxfordshire as a world-class innovation destination.

About You

You should have significant experience in event management within large or devolved organizations, with the confidence to deliver multiple projects to high standards. Excellent planning, coordination, and communication skills are essential, along with a collaborative approach to work effectively with senior stakeholders both within the University and externally. You must be calm under pressure, proactive problem-solver, and adaptable, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment.

This role requires independence, initiative, and good judgment. Competence in digital tools for event management and communications, along with excellent interpersonal skills, are essential. Experience in marketing or promoting events to target audiences is advantageous.

About Us

The University of Oxford is a renowned center for teaching, research, and innovation, committed to addressing global challenges. Working here offers a vibrant, diverse community and opportunities for growth.

Research Services, part of the University Administration and Services division, supports researchers through expertise, funding, contracts, and innovation initiatives. The post is within the Innovation and Engagement Directorate, which supports activities including IP management, enterprise, public engagement, and developing Oxford’s innovation ecosystem.

What We Offer

• 38 days of annual leave, with options to purchase extra days and additional leave after long service.
• Generous family leave schemes, including up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, and 12 weeks of paternity/partner leave.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Sustainable commuting options, including cycle loans, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to social, cultural, and sports clubs.

Application Process

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• Details of two referees