Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Associate Director for Skoll Centre Operations
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Associate Director for Skoll Centre Operations
Grade 9: £56,623 - £65,336 per annum including the Oxford University Weighting of £1,730
Fixed-term until 31 July 2029
Lead Operations That Enable Global Social Impact
The Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship exists to equip entrepreneurial leaders to create meaningful social change. Bringing together researchers, students, practitioners and partners from around the world, we generate insights, foster innovation and support initiatives that tackle some of society's most complex challenges.
We are seeking an exceptional operational leader to join us as Associate Director for Centre Operations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the operational foundations of one of the world's leading centres for social impact and entrepreneurship while working at the heart of the University of Oxford.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Head of Research Support and Administration, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across the Skoll Centre and a portfolio of externally funded research and learning initiatives.
You will work closely with academic leaders and senior stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of research programmes, events, learning activities and thought leadership initiatives. At the same time, you will oversee the people, finances, governance, systems and processes that enable the Centre to thrive.
This is a highly visible leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing strategic thinking with operational delivery and who can build strong relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders.
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What You Will Be Doing
You will:
- Lead the operational and administrative functions of the Skoll Centre and its associated initiatives.
- Partner with academic and executive leaders to deliver strategic priorities and organisational objectives.
- Oversee financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and reporting across multiple funding streams.
- Lead HR activities including recruitment, onboarding, workforce planning and staff development.
- Manage governance, compliance and research administration activities.
- Develop and improve systems, processes and ways of working to increase effectiveness and efficiency.
- Build productive relationships with academics, funders, partners, researchers and external organisations.
- Provide leadership and support to operational, communications and administrative teams.
- Ensure the successful delivery of events, programmes, communications and stakeholder engagement activities.
About You
We are looking for an experienced operational leader who brings:
- Significant experience leading professional services or operational functions within a complex organisation.
- A track record of translating strategic priorities into effective operational delivery.
- Strong financial management experience, including budget oversight, forecasting and reporting.
- Experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
- The ability to influence, collaborate and build credibility with senior stakeholders.
- Experience improving systems, processes and organisational effectiveness.
- Excellent communication, analytical and problem-solving skills.
- A proactive, entrepreneurial mindset and the confidence to navigate ambiguity and change.
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Experience within higher education, research, charitable, social impact or mission-led organisations would be advantageous but is not essential.
Why Join Oxford Saïd?
This is an opportunity to contribute to work that has global reach and real-world impact while being part of one of the world's most respected universities.
You'll benefit from:
- Hybrid working arrangements.
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Excellent pension provision.
- Access to University of Oxford facilities and staff benefits.
- Professional development opportunities.
- A collaborative and inclusive working environment.
- The chance to help shape programmes and initiatives that influence positive social change worldwide.
All applications must include a CV, Supporting Statement/Cover Letter
For further guidance and support, please visit https://www.ox.ac.uk/about/jobs/explore-our-careers/applications-process/how-to-apply.
The closing date for applications is Wednesday 14 October 2026 at 12.00 noon. Please note, this vacancy may close earlier than advertised if we receive a high number of suitable applications.
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