The Head of Administration and Finance (HAF) is the Department’s senior professional services leader and Chief Operating Officer. Working in close partnership with the Head of Department and academic leadership team, the appointee will advise on departmental strategy and lead its effective implementation, aligning people, finances, infrastructure, systems and services with research, teaching and innovation objectives. The HA will lead the Professional Services Leadership Team, providing strategic direction and oversight across finance, people and communications, research support, estates, IT, health and safety, and academic administration, while empowering specialist functional leaders to deliver. The role carries overall accountability for financial sustainability, organisational effectiveness, governance, risk management and business continuity. During the next five years, the appointee will help shape and deliver a strategic change management programme supporting the Department’s relocation plans. Reporting to the Divisional Registrar, the postholder will also contribute to the collective leadership of professional services across the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Division and to wider University initiatives.  

 

We are seeking an exceptional leader with a proactive, collaborative and inclusive approach to enabling the Department’s strategic ambitions. Strong candidates will bring significant senior leadership experience in a large, complex and devolved organisation, with a proven ability to translate strategy into effective delivery and to lead through senior managers and specialist professionals across multiple disciplines. Experience of complex organisational change and major transitions is essential, alongside strong financial and commercial acumen and the stewardship of significant budgets. Exceptional interpersonal, influencing and stakeholder-management skills will be matched by sound judgement and the ability to operate confidently in politically sensitive and ambiguous environments. The appointee will develop and motivate high-performing teams, promote equality, diversity, inclusion and staff wellbeing, and command the confidence of academic and professional services colleagues within and outside the department.

 

The Engineering Science Department has engaged Minerva (www.minervasearch.com) to assist with the recruitment of the Head of Administration and Finance. 

 

For more information, including how to apply, please visit https://www.minervasearch.com/current-opportunities/oxengscihaf/.

 

For an informal and confidential discussion, potential applicants may contact - oxengscihaf@minervasearch.com.

 

To apply for this vacancy, please send a covering letter and CV to oxengscihaf@minervasearch.com. The closing date for this role is 2nd December 2026.