Head of National Policy Strategy and Engagement

Shape how one of the world’s leading research universities engages with UK Government and contributes evidence, expertise and convening power to national policymaking. As Head of National Policy Strategy and Engagement, you will establish the University’s long-term approach, advising senior leadership and building influential relationships across Government, Parliament and the wider policy environment.

Location: University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JD

Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract (3 years)

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 eleven 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’ll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

The External Engagement Office strengthens the University’s relationships with government, policymakers and external partners, connecting its research and expertise with issues shaping society. It supports the University’s ambition to lead through partnership, bringing together academic and professional services colleagues to strengthen institutional influence and contribute effectively to public policy.

About the Role

The Head of National Policy Strategy and Engagement will lead the University’s institution-wide approach to national policy engagement. Reporting to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement, Sport and Community), you will advise senior leadership on Government priorities and emerging policy developments, translating these into strategic opportunities and informed institutional responses.

You will shape relationships with UK Government, Parliament, arm’s-length bodies and national policy organisations, while connecting policymakers with relevant research and academic expertise. Across academic divisions and professional services, you will build trusted senior relationships and strategic partnerships that strengthen the University’s contribution to evidence-informed public policy.

You will also guide the transition from the existing Oxford Policy Engagement Network to an embedded institutional model, lead the Policy Engagement team and establish the governance and priorities needed for sustainable national policy engagement. The role is primarily based in Oxford, with considerable time spent in London and occasional UK or overseas travel.

About You

• A postgraduate qualification or equivalent senior professional experience in public policy, government, higher education, research, external engagement or a related field.
• Significant experience of leading organisation-wide strategy in a large, complex and devolved organisation, including establishing governance and institutional capability.
• Substantial experience advising executive leaders and engaging with UK Government, Parliament and other senior policy stakeholders, with the credibility to build trusted relationships.
• Demonstrable success developing strategies that position research, expertise or evidence to influence public policy and advance organisational objectives.
• Outstanding strategic judgement and political awareness, with the ability to anticipate policy developments and assess organisational implications.
• The ability to navigate ambiguity and lead through influence across complex, matrix organisations.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation and influencing skills, with a strong understanding of the UK policy environment and the role of research-intensive universities in public policy.

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 23 October 2026.

Interviews are currently planned to take place on 11 November 2026, and will be held in person.

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