Head of AI and Automation in Professional Services

Shape how artificial intelligence and workflow automation are used across the University’s professional services, turning emerging technology into scalable solutions that improve service delivery.

As Head of AI and Automation in Professional Services, you will combine strategic leadership, technical expertise and organisational influence to build capability, accelerate adoption and deliver measurable benefits.

Location: Dartington House, Central Oxford, OX1 2HS. Hybrid working, with a minimum of two days per week in the office.
Contract: Fixed term until 31 July 2029, with the expectation of extension subject to funding.

About Us

The University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. Combining centuries of tradition with world-changing innovation, we offer an inspiring environment where you can contribute to ground-breaking research and education as part of a diverse and inclusive community.

The Digital Governance Unit (DGU) helps the University realise its digital ambitions through effective, coordinated, secure and innovative digital services. Its expertise spans digital architecture and innovation, assurance, strategic partnerships, capabilities and transformation.

About the Role

You will provide strategic leadership for AI and workflow automation within the Professional Services Programme, a three-year University-wide transformation programme.

You will shape the operating model, governance and delivery approach that takes promising ideas from experimentation to sustainable services, focusing investment on opportunities that can deliver significant value at scale.

Working across professional functions, technology teams and governance structures, you will help senior leaders understand the potential of AI and automation and translate institutional priorities into a focused roadmap. You will lead a team of five, work with internal specialists and external suppliers, and ensure solutions have clear ownership, appropriate governance and a strong focus on adoption, benefits and user needs.

This is an opportunity to influence how an internationally renowned university approaches AI and automation at a pivotal stage in its digital transformation. Your leadership will help reduce duplication, build organisational capability and turn rapidly evolving technologies into measurable improvements for academics, students and staff.

We welcome applications from candidates able to start within a relatively short timeframe.

About You

You will bring:

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Strong technical knowledge of AI and workflow automation.
• Experience leading digital solutions that improve processes and organisational outcomes.
• Excellent people leadership and team development skills.
• The ability to set strategic direction and translate priorities into scalable delivery approaches.
• Strong judgement in prioritising opportunities based on feasibility, cost, benefits and institutional needs.
• The ability to influence senior stakeholders across business, technology and governance.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills, including explaining complex technical concepts clearly.
• The drive to lead delivery and continuous improvement in a complex organisation.

What We Offer

Benefits include 38 days’ annual leave including public holidays, generous family leave, hybrid and flexible working, an excellent contributory pension, sustainable commuting schemes, University social, cultural and sports clubs, and a Rental Deposit Loan Scheme for eligible new employees.

How to Apply

Please upload your CV, covering letter/supporting statement, and details of two referees.

Closing date: 12 noon, Monday 19 October 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 2 November 2026, held face-to-face.

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