Programme Director - Professional Services Programme

University of Oxford; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Oxford is seeking a skilled leader to manage a large change programme. You will lead a multi-stream initiative, enhance service design principles, and engage with senior stakeholders to promote successful adoption. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in transformation roles, expertise in programme management, and strong financial acumen. This role offers a generous benefits package, including extensive leave and a commitment to hybrid working.

Benefits

38 days annual leave

Generous family leave schemes

Hybrid and flexible working options

Excellent pension scheme

Sustainable commuting options

Qualifications

• Strong track record of leading complex, organization-wide change programmes.
• Advanced expertise in programme and portfolio management.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of a large change programme.
• Build and lead a high-performing programme team.
• Shape and embed service design principles.

Skills

Leadership in complex transformation

Stakeholder engagement

Financial management

Programme management

Technology-enabled change

Job description

Reporting to the Deputy Registrar, you will:

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution and governance of a large, multi-stream change programme.
• Translate strategic objectives into a clear delivery roadmap and prioritised programme plan.
• Build and lead a high-performing programme team, working closely with academic and professional services colleagues across divisions and central teams.
• Shape and embed service design principles, operating models and workforce approaches for professional services.
• Oversee programme finances, benefits tracking and assurance, ensuring value for money and measurable outcomes.
• Act as a senior ambassador for the programme, building trust, momentum and adoption across the University.

Qualifications

• A strong track record of leading complex, organisation-wide transformation or change programmes.
• Experience of working in higher education, the public sector or similarly federated environments.
• Advanced programme and portfolio management expertise, including governance, risk and business case development.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the credibility to influence senior leaders across organisational boundaries.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing significant programme or operating budgets.
• Experience of technology-enabled change and working alongside digital teams.

About the University

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires", the University of Oxford has been ranked the world's leading university for nine 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 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.

Benefits

• 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.