Head of IT

at  University of Oxford

The Department of Engineering Science is one of the largest research and teaching departments in the University, and a diverse, innovative and vibrant community with strong links with computer science, materials science, and medicine.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction and operational delivery of digital services in the Department of Engineering Science. The Department tackles global challenges—from sustainable energy and AI to advanced healthcare technologies—transforming ideas into solutions that change lives worldwide. The department’s IT operations span multiple sites, with a complex set of rapidly evolving requirements encompassing legacy, transitional, and cutting-edge use cases. As Head of IT, you will ensure the digital infrastructure supports world-leading research and teaching, enabling the Department to continue making a profound impact on society.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

To thrive in this varied and engaging role, we are looking for someone with:

• Extensive experience in IT management, strategy, and service delivery within a complex organisation.
• Proven leadership skills with a track record of managing and developing high-performing teams.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to deliver transformative IT solutions.
• Strong customer service skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills, coupled with a deep understanding of IT governance, security, and compliance.

This role offers the chance to lead IT at one of the world’s foremost academic institutions, driving innovation and delivering services that support groundbreaking research and teaching.

WHY CHOOSE US

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ well-being, and this is reflected in the range of benefits we provide, including:

• Flexible Hybrid Working: A work setup that combines office and remote work.
• Excellent Contributory Pension Scheme: We help you plan for your future.
• Generous Annual Leave: 38 days of annual leave.
• Comprehensive Childcare Services: We support your family needs.
• Family Leave Schemes: Ensuring work-life balance.
• Cycle Loan Scheme: Promoting eco-friendly transportation.
• Membership to Various Social and Sports Clubs: Be part of vibrant communities.
• Discounted Bus Travel and Season Ticket Travel Loans: Making your commute more affordable.
• Opportunities to contribute to sustainability initiatives and community-building efforts.
• Support for continued, life-long learning and career development.

The University also hosts a multitude of social groups and sports clubs for those seeking more than just a great place to work.
Hybrid working: 60% FTE on site minimum (80% during the 12-month probationary period)
Working hours: occasional attendance of works outside normal business hours

THE ROLE

As the Head of IT, you will lead the strategic direction, development, and management of IT services for the Department of Engineering Science. You will oversee a dynamic team of IT professionals, ensuring the delivery of innovative and effective IT solutions across research, teaching, and administrative functions. This role also offers the opportunity to enable the Department’s Digital Transformation.
Your responsibilities will include:
Strategic IT planning: Implement a forward-looking strategy to align IT services with the Departmental priorities.
Team leadership: Manage and mentor the IT team of approximately 29, promoting innovation, excellence and skill development.
Service delivery: Ensure IT services meet departmental needs, improve user satisfaction, and maintain resilience.
Stakeholder engagement: Build strong relationships with academics, staff, and university IT services to ensure seamless service delivery and effective communication.
Governance and compliance: Oversee IT risk management, security policies and regulatory compliance.
Budget and resource management: overseeing a £3.3m IT budget and procurement.
Technology innovation: Identify and implement technology solutions to enhance efficiency and support the department’s academic and administrative goals.

To thrive in this varied and engaging role, we are looking for someone with:

• Extensive experience in IT management, strategy, and service delivery within a complex organisation.
• Proven leadership skills with a track record of managing and developing high-performing teams.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to deliver transformative IT solutions.
• Strong customer service skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills, coupled with a deep understanding of IT governance, security, and compliance