"Head of Marketing & Communications"

Are you a professional marketeer, passionate about leading a team to engage with audiences that drive strategic outcomes?
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our dynamic Development and Alumni Engagement Marcomms team as Head of Marketing and Communications, to lead the marketing strategy and delivery in support of the public phase of the University’s ambitious £4bn fundraising campaign. You’ll lead a team of 14 marketing specialists in the creation of a multi-channel large-scale public marketing campaigns for our world-leading institution. If this sounds like you, please get in touch!
Location: University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JD
Salary: Grade 9 - £56,623 to £65,336 per annum, with a possible extension to £71,218, including an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract (9 months)

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 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.
DAE is led by Liesl Elder who, as Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer at the University of Oxford, reports directly to the Vice-Chancellor. DAE’s mission is to help secure philanthropic support for the University, and build an engaged, informed and active alumni community. Through working in partnership with academic, development, and alumni colleagues throughout the collegiate University, DAE builds enduring relationships with external constituencies – including alumni, non-alumni, corporate and foundation donors – and increases financial support for agreed academic priorities.
For further information please visit: Development Office and Oxford Alumni

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.
* 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
The Head of Marketing and Communications leads the mass engagement across the full breadth of audiences for Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) from donors, to alumni, to internal staff colleagues, and will liaise closely with Oxford’s Public Affairs Directorate (PAD) and stakeholder managers across the collegiate University. The postholder has overall responsibility for the planning, development, management and delivery of all engagement journeys for DAE across owned, shared and bought channels. The successful candidate should be an experienced communications leader with specialist expertise in marketing campaign management. The postholder will line manage 7 staff, with a total of 14 within Marketing & Communications.
Maternity leave cover post
This post is to cover the absence of the substantive postholder, who is taking a period of maternity leave. The post is available until 22 January 2027.

About You
* Strong education background including a degree (or equivalent).
* Proven outstanding interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively in writing, deliver presentations and relate effectively to stakeholders at all levels – in particular senior leaders
* Demonstrable experience of leading or managing successful marketing campaigns.
* Experience of implementing tangible improvements to processes over time, including improvements relating to the collection and/or processing of data.
* A passion for continuous improvement and a strong desire to create the best possible customer experience with the ability to “put yourself into your customer’s shoes”.
* Knowledge of legislation, regulation and relevant standards relating to the use of personal data and fundraising (Data Protection Act, Privacy & Electronic Communications Regulations, GDPR, Fundraising Regulator).

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 24 February 2026.
Interviews are planned for 3 March 2026, in person, in Oxford.