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.





Location: **Robert Hooke Building, Parks Road, OX1 3PR** Salary: **£ 48,235 -
£57,255per annum** Contract: **Fixed Term Contract (12 months in the first
instance)**





**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.





**About You**



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.





**About Us**



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 IP management and commercialisation,
enterprise and entrepreneurship, public engagement with research, engagement
and partnerships with the public, private and third sectors, and the
development of Oxford’s innovation ecosystem.





**What We Offer**



• Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such
as:



• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your
wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 5 extra days and additional leave
after long service.



• 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.



• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working.



• An excellent contributory pension scheme.



• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme,
discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.



• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports
clubs.





**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 Wednesday 11 June



Interviews will take place on Friday 1 July, and will be held face-to-face.