Executive Assistant to the Head of Department

Location: Physics Central, Department of Physics, Clarendon Laboratory Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PU

This is an exciting opportunity within the Department of Physics for an experienced Executive Assistant to join the admin support team for the Head of Department.

Reporting to the Head of Department, you will undertake a wide variety of tasks to support the Head of Department and Deputy Head of Department to enable them to effectively discharge their responsibilities. The EAHOD is a critical position managing the HoD’s office with responsibility for ensuring a high level of administrative support to the HoD, the department’s senior management team and the faculty. The role includes diary and engagement management, progressing current and new initiatives, and completing follow up actions from the HoD’s internal and external meetings.

The post holder will manage the diary and arrange meetings for the Head of Department and Deputy Head of Department, using initiative to make considered judgements when juggling the demands placed on the schedule. The post holder will also coordinate committee work primarily for the Physics Management Committee as well as the Departmental Development Board, including organising business, preparing agendas, writing minutes and ensuring business is dealt with in a timely manner. They will also identify actions and ensure decisions are effectively implemented.

The post holder will also provide cover for the PA to the Head and Deputy Head of Administration and Finance as and when required.

The post holder will be able to be immediately effective in the role and work with minimal supervision. They will have experience of managing the office of a senior manager ideally within a HE setting. They will be flexible with a ‘can do’ attitude and the ability to communicate at all levels using discretion as required when dealing with confidential matters. Strong IT and written communication skills are also essential. The role will suit someone who is happy to deal with change and has the resilience and capacity to adapt.

How to Apply

The University of Oxford is committed to equality and valuing diversity. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria.

This post is offered on a full-time, permanent basis upon successful completion of a one-year probationary period.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via our e-recruitment system, and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on 30 June 2026. Interviews are scheduled for Thursday, 16 July 2026].

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