Global Engagement Officer

Are you a proactive and internationally minded professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys building strong relationships across complex organisations? Join our External Engagement Office, Vice-Chancellors and Registrar’s Office team at the University of Oxford as a Global Engagement Officer to make a difference within a globally renowned institution.

Location: University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford

Salary: Grade 7, £39,424-£47,779 per annum

Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract (6 months maternity cover). This post may also be offered as a secondment opportunity for eligible staff.

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the “city of dreaming spires”, the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten 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 an organisation which delivers 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.

The External Engagement Office plays a central role in strengthening the University’s relationships with governments, universities, strategic partners and international networks across the world. Working at the intersection of diplomacy, strategy and institutional collaboration, the team supports the University’s global engagement ambitions and helps advance the “Leading Through Partnership” pillar of the University’s 2025–30 strategy. The office works closely with senior leaders, researchers and professional services colleagues across the collegiate University to coordinate high-profile international activity and promote Oxford’s global impact.

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.
• 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 Role

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to Oxford’s international engagement strategy during a significant period of institutional activity. Acting as a key diplomatic and operational contact for the University, you will help manage relationships with governments, universities and international networks, supporting activity that advances Oxford’s global partnerships and reputation.

You will coordinate high-profile meetings, visits and events involving senior University leaders and external stakeholders, while also developing insight into the University’s international engagement activities across research, education and innovation. The role includes supporting strategic communications relating to “Oxford in the World”, developing guidance on international engagement, and helping manage major international partnerships, including the Oxford-Berlin Research Partnership.

As this is a short-term maternity cover role supporting live strategic priorities, we are keen to appoint someone who can transition into the role smoothly and begin contributing effectively within a short timeframe. We therefore welcome applications from candidates who are available to start promptly or who can offer an early start date.

About You

• Experience of playing an external relations or representative role on behalf of a large and complex international organisation.
• The proven ability to build networks and strong and sustainable working relationships, including across cultures, and with diverse range of people including those in very senior roles.
• Experience of planning and overseeing delivery of meetings, visits, and events.
• Strong administrative and project management skills relevant to taking operational responsibility for a small portfolio of international research partnerships.

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 Friday 29 May.

Interviews will take place in-person on one of the following days:

• Wednesday 10 June
• Friday 12 June
• Monday 15 June