Head of Education Policy Support

Head of Education Policy Support

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Through a commitment to the personal education of each student, we provide a quality of education and experience which equips students with the values, skills and intellectual discipline that enable them to make a positive contribution to society.

The Head of Education Policy Support plays a vital and senior role in leading educational policy development and supporting the planning, implementation and prioritisation in delivery of the University’s strategic educational objectives, providing relevant advice to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education).

About the Role

The Head of EPS leads a team of educational policy and quality assurance specialists engaged in the management and governance of the education brief for the University. The work of the EPS team ensures the effective management and operation of the University’s Education Committee and its panels and sub-committees. The Head is also a member of the senior team reporting to the Director for Learning and Teaching, enabling a collaborative approach to the delivery of educational strategy and policy that informs teaching, learning and assessment practices.

Alongside education strategy and policy, and related risk management, the Head of EPS also oversees a student casework function in conjunction with the Proctors’ Office (a separate small team with responsibility for handling aspects of student complaints and appeals and non-academic misconduct). There are around 2,000 cases per annum and the Head should have an understanding of relevant guidelines of the OIA.

The Head of EPS will also work in partnership and collaboration with others across AAD to deliver a joined-up and coherent model for delivery of educational priorities, and work closely with the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) and other senior academics and professional services.

About You

Your proven experience of working at a senior level in higher education or equivalent environment, ideally within the context of educational policy and quality assurance regimes, will be vital in delivering the demands of this senior role. You will have excellent analytical skills and clear, consistent judgement, as well as the ability to act tactfully and sensitively in complex situations. 

You must have the staff management, leadership abilities and excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to act with tact and discretion, to inspire confidence. An ability to motivate staff and to co-operate with colleagues in a team spirit will be essential. You will give leadership to how the team can handle and prioritise its complex portfolio in a challenging and ever-evolving environment, demonstrating high effectiveness in contributing to strategic thinking.

Your ability to communicate effectively and gain the trust and confidence of a wide range of people, including senior University officers and the academic community, will be vital. You will be called upon to deploy highly developed influencing and negotiating skills, and an ability to demonstrate a diplomatic and consensual approach to problem-resolution.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is 12pm on Monday 20 May 2024.

Interviews will take place during week commencing 27 May 2024.

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