Head of PMO (Project Management Office)

Location: The Malthouse, Tidmarsh Lane, Oxford, OX1 1NQ

Are you an experienced programme or portfolio office lead in capital projects or construction delivery who wants to make a real difference? 

Join our Estates Department at the University of Oxford as Head of Project Management Office (PMO) and play a defining role in delivering one of the UK’s most ambitious and complex capital investment programmes - within a globally renowned institution.

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 will join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.

The Estates Department plays a critical role in enabling this mission. From major capital developments, and refurbishments to sustainability and digitally-driven estate transformation, our work creates the physical environment in which world-leading research and teaching can thrive.

About the Role

As Head of PMO, you will lead a best-in-class Project Management Office that enables the confident delivery of a £150m+ annual capital investment portfolio. 

You will also be responsible for overseeing the definition and administration of the minor capital plan at circa £30m per year. 

You will set the standards for how projects are initiated, governed, resourced, and reported -ensuring consistency, transparency, and confidence for senior leaders and stakeholders. A key part of the role is evolving towards a “One Estates PMO” model, bringing together multiple portfolios such as Engineering, Maintenance, Sustainability, and Planning into a coordinated and future-focused approach.

Leading a team of up to 10 professional PMO specialists, you will champion capability development, strong financial control, and continuous improvement, while working closely with senior academics, professional services leaders, finance, and external partners to enable successful outcomes.

About You

You will bring:

• Senior-level experience leading or shaping a PMO or programme function within a complex organisation
• A proven ability to design, embed, and improve governance, standards, and assurance at portfolio level
• Experience leading financial oversight across complex programmes or portfolios
• The credibility and confidence to influence senior stakeholders
• Experience of leading, developing, and inspiring teams
• A results-driven and improvement-focused mindset

Sponsorship and Right to Work

This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa.

Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.

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 13 February 2026.

Interviews will take place on 24 February 2026 and will be held in person.

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