Executive Officer

Location:  Social Sciences Divisional Office, 6 Worcester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BX

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Social Sciences Divisional Office provides strategic, operational and administrative leadership for one of the University’s four academic divisions, supporting 15 departments, with a diverse portfolio spanning education, research, people, finance, governance, and external engagement.

This is a pivotal, high‑trust role providing executive and operational support to divisional senior leadership while ensuring the effective day‑to‑day running of the Social Sciences Divisional Office.

About the Role

This is a central role within the Social Sciences Divisional Office, providing high‑level executive support to the Head of Division and Divisional Registrar and acting as a trusted partner to senior leadership. You will manage complex and fast‑moving priorities, exercise sound judgement and discretion, and ensure that senior leaders are supported to operate effectively.

A key aspect of the role is responsibility for coordinating and servicing senior divisional committees, including the Divisional Board and Planning and Resources Committee. You will oversee agendas, papers, governance processes and follow‑up actions, working closely with senior academic and professional stakeholders across the Division.

Alongside executive support, you will play a major role in the operational management of the Divisional Office, ensuring a professional, well‑run and responsive working environment. This includes oversight of office procedures, health and safety, onboarding processes, events, facilities liaison and continuous improvement of systems and processes, as well as acting as the primary point of contact for facilities and reception services within the building.

About You

You will bring substantial experience of providing high‑level executive support to senior leaders, with the confidence and professionalism to operate with a high degree of autonomy and discretion. You will be comfortable managing sensitive information and navigating complex organisational environments.

You will be highly organised and detail‑focused with strong organisational skills in diary and correspondence management, committee servicing, drafting high‑quality documents, and coordinating travel and meetings. Experience of working with senior committees or governance frameworks is essential.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential, with the ability to build effective relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

Application Process

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

For queries about the role, contact: recruitment@socsci.ox.ac.uk. For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Sarah Warden, Head of Strategic Planning and Projects, at sarah.warden@socsci.ox.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is midday on Friday 15 May 2026.

Interviews will take place on Thursday 21 May 2026.

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Committed to equality and valuing diversity. 

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