Head of User Experience

<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p></p><div>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.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>We have an exciting opportunity to join the IT Services Department as the Head of a new unit specialising in improving User Experience.&#160; <strong>This role is based on a 2- year Fixed-term contract with the potential for extension</strong>.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>We are open to discussing this position in terms of flexible working between office and home.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>IT Services is a key department that ensures that the University has robust, reliable and high-performing IT facilities it requires to support the distinctive needs of those engaged in teaching, learning, research and administration. We value and recognise our own and the contribution of others, creating a great culture to work in and a place where we all feel we belong.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>What Awaits You</strong></div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>We genuinely prioritize the well-being of our employees and it shows through our comprehensive range of benefits:</div><br> <ul><br> <li>30 days of annual leave (excluding the 8 public holidays)</li><br> <li>Extensive personal and professional development plans and opportunities to foster growth</li><br> <li>A comprehensive range of childcare services to support working parents</li><br> <li>Very generous maternity, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave schemes for growing families</li><br> <li>An excellent contributory pension scheme to secure your financial future</li><br> <li>Salary sacrifice scheme for additional savings</li><br> <li>Subsidised membership of the University Sports Centre to promote well-being</li><br> <li>Cycle loan scheme to encourage sustainable commuting</li><br> <li>Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans for convenient transportation</li><br> </ul><br> <div>Moreover, the University hosts a wide array of social groups and sports clubs, making your experience here about much more than just work.</div><br> <div>&#160;<br> <br>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>About the Role</strong></div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>As the Head of User Experience, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic development of user experiences and journeys within the University's digital ecosystem. Your primary responsibility will be to establish and lead a diverse team dedicated to supporting and enhancing these experiences. In this role, you will provide guidance, technical expertise, and conduct ongoing usability assessments for all services offered across various areas, including Research, Education, Administration, Engagement and Communication, and Technology.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Key Responsibilities include:</strong></div><br> <ul><br> <li>Collaboratively map and optimize user journeys and experiences across our diverse service portfolios, striving for seamlessness and excellence.</li><br> <li>Lead your team in addressing user design issues such as integration and interface design, while prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity.</li><br> <li>Contribute to discussions on digital inclusivity, ensuring that skills, training, and interfaces are designed to leave no user behind.</li><br> </ul><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>About You</strong></div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>To excel in this multifaceted role, you should:</div><br> <ul><br> <li>Be a dedicated professional committed to delivering outstanding customer experiences.</li><br> <li>Possess expertise in user experience best practices, accessibility considerations, team leadership, and effective stakeholder communication.</li><br> <li>Have the ability to engage with stakeholders across the University, including senior leadership, in a collaborative yet authoritative manner which is crucial.</li><br> </ul><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Qualifications and Experience:</strong></div><br> <ul><br> <li>Proven track record in user experience strategy and implementation.</li><br> <li>In-depth knowledge of accessibility standards and practices.</li><br> <li>Strong team-building and management skills.</li><br> <li>Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.</li><br> </ul><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Application Process</strong></div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>The <strong>closing date</strong> for application is <strong>Friday 06 October</strong> at <strong>12:00 noon.</strong></div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Interviews</strong> will take place on the <strong>week commencing 16 October</strong> and will take place in person or virtually.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div> </div>