The University of Oxford is seeking a strategic and creative Innovation Communications Manager to join the Innovation & Engagement team in Research Services. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead the delivery of a high-profile communications and engagement programme supporting a flagship University-led initiative to unlock innovation-led growth across the region. Working closely with an external agency and University colleagues, the postholder will manage the implementation of an integrated communications strategy, shape high-impact campaigns, and steward a new innovation brand to enhance the visibility and influence of Oxfordshire’s innovation ecosystem.

 

Location: Robert Hooke Building, Parks Road, OX1 3PR

Salary: £48,235 - £57,255per annum

Contract: Fixed Term Contract (2 years)  

 

The Oxfordshire Strategic Innovation Taskforce (OSIT) is a major collaborative initiative led by the University of Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor to unlock and accelerate regionally anchored, nationally significant growth.

 

Over the course of the next two years, OSIT will deliver a programme of high-profile engagement, communications and events to accelerate investment, unlock infrastructure development, attract corporate partners, and support inclusive innovation across local communities. A landmark public launch event in November 2025 will be supported by a national and international communications campaign to elevate the visibility and ambition of the programme.

 

The Innovation Communications Manager will play a critical role in the delivery of OSIT’s success. You will play a pivotal role in advocating for the University’s innovation priorities at regional and national levels. 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.

 

You will need outstanding written skills to develop high quality, accurate and consistent communications materials; excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills to inspire the confidence of colleagues; and the ability to conceive, implement and evaluate creative and innovative communication strategies.

 

This role would suit a self-directed strategic thinker with the capacity to problem-solve, take initiative, set priorities, and exercise good judgment in an organised and professional manner.

 

You will be required to assimilate complex information quickly and make it accessible to a wider audience through a variety of communications channels. Proven ability to deliver in a fast-paced, agile ‘projects’ environment managing multiple concurrent initiatives across a range of stakeholder groups would be an advantage.

 

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.

 

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

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The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Wednesday 25th June

Interviews will take place on Friday 25th July, and will be held face-to-face.