Deputy Head of University Communications Uk Visa Sponsorship

Job Description

Location: Public Affairs Directorate, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD
Contract Type: Full-time, permanent
Closing Date: 12 noon on Friday, 13 June 2025
Interviews: Week commencing Monday, 23 June 2025 (in person)

About the University

Ranked number one in the world by Times Higher Education for nine consecutive years, the University of Oxford is a global leader in teaching, research and innovation. We combine centuries of academic excellence with a forward-looking approach to addressing the world’s most pressing challenges—from climate action to global health. At the heart of this success is our commitment to change, our world-class community, and the talented communicators who share our story with the world.

About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Head of University Communications to join our Public Affairs and Communications Directorate (PAD). This is a unique opportunity for a communications leader with outstanding strategic, editorial, and media relations skills to lead some of the most high-profile communications campaigns in global higher education.

You will shape and deliver communications strategies for the University’s key initiatives, including major funding announcements, international partnerships, and institutional developments. Working closely with senior leadership, you’ll play a central role in managing Oxford’s reputation, framing its voice in a complex policy landscape, and ensuring positive, high-impact media coverage across national and international platforms.

Your day-to-day will involve crafting media strategies, managing sensitive reputational issues, and producing high-quality news releases and public statements. You will serve as a trusted advisor to senior figures across the University, supporting institutional priorities through sharp messaging, proactive storytelling, and effective crisis communications.

About the Directorate

The Public Affairs and Communications Directorate (PAD) is responsible for Oxford’s institutional communications and reputation strategy. It provides expert advice to the Vice-Chancellor and senior teams, manages high-profile media relations, supports internal communications for more than 15,000 staff, and delivers integrated campaigns that align with the University’s strategic goals.

PAD is organised across six expert teams:

• News & Information
• Research & Innovation Communications
• Campaigns & Digital Communications
• Brand & Design
• Events
• Public Affairs

Working collaboratively across these teams—and with divisions, colleges, museums, and services—you will help ensure a consistent and compelling voice for Oxford worldwide.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for a seasoned communications professional who brings:

• Significant experience in media or communications at national level, ideally in a fast-paced or high-profile environment
• A strong track record of developing and delivering strategic communications that align with institutional goals
• Excellent writing and editorial skills, with meticulous attention to accuracy and detail
• Proven ability to manage sensitive issues and offer sound communications advice to senior stakeholders
• Outstanding organisational skills with the ability to juggle competing demands and tight deadlines
• Strong understanding of digital platforms and social media, with experience in content creation or coordination
• Familiarity with AI tools for media monitoring, content creation, and audience insight generation
• The ability to evaluate communications impact and feed data-driven insights into ongoing strategy

What We Offer

Oxford offers a highly competitive benefits package, including:

• 38 days of annual leave (including public holidays), with options to buy more or earn additional leave through long service
• Family-friendly policies, including up to 26 weeks’ full pay for maternity and adoption leave, and 12 weeks’ full pay for paternity/partner leave
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
• Sustainable travel options, including cycle loan scheme, discounted bus passes, and season ticket loans
• Access to a vibrant university community, including cultural, sporting and social clubs

Sponsorship and Right to Work

This role is eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. The University will cover the cost of the visa and the NHS surcharge for eligible applicants. Please indicate in your application if you require sponsorship.

How to Apply

To apply, please upload the following via our online recruitment portal:

• A covering letter/supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role
• Your CV
• Contact details for two referees

Application deadline: 12 noon on Friday, 13 June 2025
Interviews: Week of 23 June 2025 (to be held in person)

For more information about this opportunity and to apply, please visit the University of Oxford Jobs Portal. If you have specific questions about the role, you are welcome to get in touch with the Public Affairs team.