Public Affairs Manager

The University of Oxford is seeking a strategic and politically astute Public Affairs Manager to join the Innovation & Engagement team in Research Services. This role offers a rare opportunity to lead the development and delivery of a public affairs strategy that supports the University's ambition to shape and influence innovation policy, build high-value partnerships, and enhance the impact of Oxford's knowledge exchange activity, with Equinox (www.oxfordequinox.com), the University's flagship initiative, as a central focus.

 

Location: Robert Hooke Building, Parks Road, OX1 3PR  Salary: £49,119 - £58,265, including Oxford University Weighting 

Contract: Open-end externally funded contract

About the Role 

You will play a pivotal role in advocating for the University’s innovation priorities at regional and national levels, ensuring that Oxford is recognised as a leading voice in shaping the UK’s research and innovation landscape. Your work will involve engaging with policymakers, government officials, and other strategic stakeholders to promote the University’s interests, articulate its contributions to the economy and society, and inform future policy development. You will monitor political and regulatory developments, provide strategic advice to senior colleagues, and lead the preparation of briefings, consultation responses, and evidence submissions.

You will bring proven experience in public affairs, policy engagement, government relations, or a related field, ideally in a complex organisation such as a university, public body, or large charity. You will need to show an understanding of the UK political landscape, government structures, and policymaking processes, especially in relation to either research, innovation and regional development or higher education. Crucially, you will demonstrate an ability to devise and implement public affairs strategies that influence policy outcomes and build productive long-term relationships with external stakeholders. Furthermore, you will be required to communicate complex messages with clarity and impact across various channels and a range of different audiences.

 

You must be comfortable providing expert advice to senior colleagues and navigating complex environments with initiative and sound decision-making. A commitment to fostering a collaborative and productive team culture, will ensure success in this role. An understanding of the higher education sector and the societal impact of innovation would be advantageous.

 

The University of Oxford is a globally renowned centre for teaching, research and innovation. Working here means joining a vibrant, cosmopolitan community dedicated to addressing global challenges and advancing knowledge across diverse disciplines. Oxford's rich history and commitment to innovation make it an inspiring environment for personal and professional growth.

 

Research Services is part of the University Administration and Services (UAS) division and works in partnership with academic divisions, departments, and faculties. It has a broad remit to support the University’s researchers by providing expertise, strategic insight, research funding acquisition, contract negotiation, and innovation and engagement initiatives.

 

The post is based within the Innovation and Engagement Directorate which provides support for a wide range of Innovation and Engagement activities across the University, including engagement and partnerships with the public, private and third sectors, both national and international, enterprise and entrepreneurship, and the development of Oxford’s innovation ecosystem.  

 

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 18th September.

Interviews will take place on Friday 2nd October, and will be held face-to-face.

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