Microsoft Strategic Partnership Lead

<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p></p><div><strong>Please note- This is an internal secondment opportunity, external applicants need not apply.</strong></div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Microsoft Strategic Partnership Lead</strong></div><br> <div>Join our dynamic <strong>IT Services</strong> team at the University of Oxford and play a pivotal role in shaping our strategic partnership with Microsoft, helping to maximise its value for the University and driving forward key projects and research opportunities.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Location:</strong> IT Services, 13 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 6NN</div><br> <div><strong>Salary:</strong> &#163;55,636 - &#163;64,228 per annum (pro rata)</div><br> <div><strong>Contract:</strong> 0.5FTE (6 months in first instance &#8211; offered as a secondment)</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>About Us</strong></div><br> <div>Spanning the historic streets of the &#8220;city of dreaming spires,&#8221; the University of Oxford has been ranked the world&#8217;s leading university for nine 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&#8217;ll contribute to 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.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>About IT Services</strong></div><br> <div>IT Services plays a vital role in <strong>enabling world-class teaching, research, and administration</strong> at Oxford. We provide essential digital infrastructure, innovative solutions, and expert guidance across the University, working in close collaboration with academic divisions, departments, and external technology partners. Our partnerships with global tech leaders such as Microsoft are central to enhancing Oxford&#8217;s technological capabilities and advancing our research and innovation agenda.</div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>What We Offer</strong></div><br> <div>Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:</div><br> <ul><br> <li>38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.</li><br> <li>One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.</li><br> <li>A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.</li><br> <li>An excellent contributory pension scheme.</li><br> <li>Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.</li><br> <li>Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.</li><br> </ul><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>About the Role</strong></div><br> <ul><br> <li>We are seeking a <strong>highly motivated and strategic individual</strong> to lead and <strong>manage the University&#8217;s strategic partnership with Microsoft</strong>. This unique role is an opportunity to represent Oxford at the <strong>Microsoft Oversight Board</strong>, lead <strong>licensing negotiations</strong>, and foster collaboration between the University and Microsoft.</li><br> <li>You will work closely with the <strong>Acting CIO</strong>, <strong>finance teams</strong>, and <strong>University Purchasing Department</strong>, acting as the key contact for Microsoft and ensuring Oxford gains maximum value from the partnership. You will also <strong>coordinate collaborative events</strong>, strengthen relationships with senior Microsoft contacts, and explore opportunities for new projects and research collaborations.</li><br> <li>As the lead for this strategic relationship, you will need to combine <strong>strong negotiation and communication skills</strong> with a <strong>deep understanding of Microsoft licensing and technology</strong>, particularly around <strong>A5 licensing</strong>. This is an excellent opportunity to play a high-impact role in a world-leading university.</li><br> </ul><br> <div><strong>About You</strong></div><br> <div>You will be a proactive and confident professional with:</div><br> <ul><br> <li><strong>Proven experience managing strategic partnerships</strong> (ideally with Microsoft or similar global technology companies).</li><br> <li><strong>Strong understanding of Microsoft licensing</strong> (particularly A5) and the <strong>Microsoft technical stack</strong>.</li><br> <li><strong>Excellent negotiation and communication skills</strong>, with experience representing organisations at senior level discussions.</li><br> <li><strong>Ability to build strong relationships</strong> with both internal stakeholders and external partners.</li><br> <li><strong>Experience coordinating events</strong> to foster collaboration and engagement.</li><br> </ul><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Application Process</strong></div><br> <div>To apply, please upload:</div><br> <ul><br> <li>A covering letter/supporting statement</li><br> <li>Your CV</li><br> <li>The details of two referees</li><br> </ul><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div>The <strong>closing date</strong> for applications is <strong>12 noon on Thursday 27 March.</strong></div><br> <div>&#160;</div><br> <div><strong>Interviews</strong> will take place on any of <strong>Wednesday 2, Thursday 3 or Friday 4 April and take place in person in central Oxford.</strong></div> </div>