Professional services and University administration

Postal address: Assurance Directorate, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD

Director of Assurance: Lukasz Bohdan

Executive Assistant: Tui Solomon
 
The Assurance Directorate supports the Registrar across a wide and demanding range of legislative and regulatory issues. It promotes the benefits of, and improves the University’s approach to, compliance issues.

The Directorate is responsible for ensuring the University has adequate and effective arrangements for the provision of assurance to Council and to its regulator, the Office for Students, across the University’s activities. The Directorate oversees the effective functioning of the University’s risk management processes and its internal control framework in support of the objectives set out in the Strategic Plan.

The Directorate leads across departmental boundaries to provide assurance over compliance with the University’s legal, regulatory and other obligations, and its framework of policies and processes, and provides specialist advice and support to the Registrar and senior officers of the University as well as managing relationships with intercollegiate and external bodies, and regulatory authorities.

The Directorate encompasses a number of the University’s Professional Services teams who work collaboratively across key areas including Resilience, Information Compliance and Risk, Compliance and Assurance.

The Director of Assurance reports to the Registrar.

More information 

For staff: About the Assurance Directorate on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Relevant webpages:

• Report a data breach
• Data protection and information rights

The Cyber Security (formerly Information Security) team supports the University’s mission by safeguarding the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of its information assets and ensuring a secure digital environment for teaching, learning, research and administration. It also helps to protect collaborations with people and organisations, both inside and outside of the University.

This unit is responsible for maintaining the University's information security policy framework, by upholding a consistent standard (baseline) for information security at Oxford and monitoring how compliant members of the University are, through assessments and internal audits. It also maintains important capabilities for managing an effective cyber incident response, when necessary. 

Cyber Security provides support and guidance to staff and students on all aspects of cyber security and data governance, including managing the provision of cyber security training. 

The interim Chief Information Security Officer (interim CISO) is Chris Mortlock, who reports to the Chief Digital & Information Officer (CDIO).

For staff: 

Cyber Security

About Cyber Security on OxIntranet (SSO required)

For students:

Staying secure

Email: [email protected]

To report a cyber incident, contact [email protected] or call +44 (0)1865 282 222. For guidance on how to report, visit the University website.

Enquiries: 01865 (6)11530

Email: [email protected] 

Postal address: Development and Alumni Engagement, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD

Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer: Liesl Elder
Senior Executive Assistant: Amanda Mitchell

Executive Director of Development: Antony Green
Director of Advancement Operations: Kate Lawton

Director of Global Philanthropy: Gareth Simpson

Director of Alumni Engagement: Holly Peterson

Development and Alumni Engagement’s (DAE) mission is to help secure philanthropic support for the University, and build an engaged, informed and active alumni community. Through working in partnership with academic, development, and alumni colleagues throughout the collegiate University, DAE builds enduring relationships with external constituencies – including alumni, non-alumni, corporate and foundation donors – and increases financial support for agreed academic priorities.

As one of the central administrative departments of the University, DAE collaborates closely with a number of other units and teams, particularly Public Affairs, Finance, Research, and Legal etc. 

In 2019, the University and the colleges completed the Oxford Thinking Campaign, which raised £3.34bn, and is the most successful fundraising campaign in higher education in Europe. The University is currently planning its next major campaign, and all members of DAE will play a role in helping realise its successful delivery.

In addition to front-line fundraising and alumni engagement staff, DAE has a number of teams that cover particular support functions. These include:

• Donor Relations
• Events
• Prospect Research
• Development and Alumni Relations Systems (DARS) (which supports the Development and Alumni Relations database)
• Communications
• Marketing and Insights

DAE works closely with the Gift Registry, part of the Finance Division, which records and processes donations received by the University and on behalf of colleges. In addition, there are four overseas offices whose remit includes development and alumni engagement; these offices are located in North America, Japan, Hong Kong, and Switzerland.

DAE is led by Liesl Elder, Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer, who reports to the Vice-Chancellor.

Relevant websites: 

• Oxford Excellence 
• Oxford Alumni
• About DAE on OxIntranet

The University's digital and information services are delivered by the departments and units in the University Administration and Services that report to the Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO), who reports to the Vice-Chancellor. They are supported by a shared administration, the Office of the CDIO (OCDIO).

Units within this group include the Digital Governance Unit (DGU), Cyber Security, IT Services – with two new units due to be established during the 2026/27 academic year, focused on data management and research computing infrastructure.

Chief Digital and Information Officer: David White 

Senior Executive Assistant: Alexandra Tromans

DGU Reception: 01865 (2)70202 

Email: [email protected]  

Postal address: Digital Governance Unit, Dartington House, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD

Director of the Digital Governance Unit and Deputy Chief Digital & Information Officer (Deputy CDIO): Professor Stuart Lee 

Executive Assistant to the Director of the DGU and Deputy CDIO: Kate Forbes

Formed in September 2025, the Digital Governance Unit (DGU) is responsible for governance and coordination of digital and information technology services across the University. It exists to improve the way the University delivers, makes decisions about, and uses technology, to meet the challenges and harness the opportunities of a digital world. 

The University’s digital estates continues to evolve, and the DGU plays a critical role in ensuring that these services are effective, coordinated, compliant, and secure. Its core functions span digital architecture, digital assurance, AI governance and digital innovation, digital sustainability, digital capabilities strategy, strategic digital Partnerships, and coordination of the University’s Investment in Digital fund which powers our digital services and ongoing digital transformation. The DGU is also home to the University’s AI Competency Centre and the User Experience (UX) Centre of Excellence.

The Director of the DGU, Stuart Lee, reports to the Chief Digital & Information Officer (CDIO).

For staff:

About the Digital Governance Unit on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Humanities

Divisional Registrar: Alexandra Vincent

Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01865 (2)70555

More information:

• For staff: Humanities Division on OxIntranet (SSO required
• Website: www.humanities.ox.ac.uk

Postal address: Humanities Division, The Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities, Oxford OX2 6GG.

Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS)

Divisional Registrar: Dr Tracy Gale

Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01865 (2)82570

More information:

• For staff: MPLS Division on OxIntranet (SSO required
• Website: www.mpls.ox.ac.uk

Postal address: Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences, Tinsley Building, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA

Medical Sciences

Divisional Registrar: Chris Price

Email: [email protected] 
Tel: 01865 (2)89565

Website: www.medsci.ox.ac.uk

Postal address: Medical Sciences Office, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU

Social Sciences

Interim Divisional Registrar: Brid Cronin

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.socsci.ox.ac.uk

Postal address: Social Sciences, Hayes House, 75 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2BQ

Gardens, Libraries and Museums (GLAM)

GLAM Registrar and Chief Operating Officer: Lindsay Rudge 

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.glam.ox.ac.uk

Postal address: Gardens, Libraries and Museums Divisional Office, Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PW

The divisional offices of the four academic divisions within the University support the work of divisional boards and their constituent faculties and departments; undertake much of the day-to-day work relating to planning and resource allocation, the administration of academic appointments, on-course graduate administration, and the detailed supervision of education and research. Their responsibilities cover budgeting and financial planning, educational provision, and academic policy across their divisions, with a particular role in monitoring and quality assurance.

The Gardens, Libraries and Museums of the University of Oxford contain some of the world's most significant collections. Overseen by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (People & GLAM), the division comprises the four University museums – Ashmolean, History of Science, Natural History and Pitt Rivers; the Bodleian Libraries; and the Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum. Both individually and collectively, the collections are integral to the delivery of the University’s strategic aims of teaching, research and widening participation. They also embody the public face of the University and represent the front door to the wealth of knowledge and research curated by and generated at Oxford.

The Divisional Registrars report to the Registrar.

Enquiries: 01865 (2)78750
Email: [email protected]

Postal address: Estates Services, The Malthouse, Tidmarsh Lane, Oxford, OX1 1NQ

Interim Director of Estates: Iain Critchlow
PA to the Director of Estates: Anna Gaw

Estates Services is responsible for the management and strategic development of the University’s functional and commercial estate comprising 443 buildings and the infrastructure associated with them. The University’s functional estate covers more than 260 buildings – and spaces between them – that are used for specialist research, teaching laboratories and lecture halls, sports facilities, libraries and museums, and administrative and ceremonial activities. Over 180 other properties in and around Oxford form the commercial estate which includes accommodation for the University’s graduate students as well as office space, warehouses, and agricultural land and property.

The day-to-day responsibilities of Estates Services include: the management of the University’s capital building programme – aimed at delivering world-class new buildings; planned and reactive repairs and maintenance including upkeep of some of the finest buildings in the city; facilities management for a growing number of University buildings and departments; the provision of key central services such as the mail room and reprographics services; maintaining a safe and secure physical environment for staff, students and visitors; the allocation of space for departmental use; property acquisitions, disposals and leases; managing accommodation for graduate students; conserving Wytham Woods and the University Parks, and managing gardens and landscapes across the estate; developing and implementing carbon reduction strategies across the University, and helping staff and students to make sustainable workplace and travel choices.

The Director of Estates reports to the Registrar.

More information: 

For staff: About Estates Services on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Relevant websites:

• Building our future
• Oxford University Event Venues
• Graduate Accommodation
• University Parks
• Wytham Woods

Enquiries: 01865 (2)80417

Website: https://www.ox.ac.uk/about/oxford-in-the-world/external-engagement

Postal address: External Engagement, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JD

Office Administrator: Sarah Hebbes

The External Engagement team supports the University of Oxford in developing strategic partnerships that connect the University's research, education and expertise with society at local, national and global levels. Through collaboration and engagement, the team helps advance the University's Strategic Plan and maximise the impact of its work. 

Working across the collegiate University and with external partners, the team identifies opportunities, builds networks and coordinates engagement that strengthens Oxford's relationships around the world. Its work spans three interconnected areas: strengthening and coordinating strategic international partnerships and global collaborations; supporting national engagement with government, policymakers and key organisations; and fostering relationships with local communities through partnerships with schools, civic organisations, cultural institutions and sporting bodies.

By bringing together colleagues across departments, divisions and professional services, the External Engagement team provides a coordinated, partnership-led approach that enhances collaboration across the University and creates lasting value for communities, partners and society.

More information:

For staff: About External Engagement on OxIntranet [Link TBC] (SSO required)

Relevant webpages:

Oxford in the World

Enquiries: 01865 (6)16131

Postal address: Finance Division, University of Oxford, C/O Oxford University Press, Great Clarenden Street, Oxford, OX2 6DP

Chief Financial Officer: Mr Simon Boddie

The Finance Division interacts with a wide range of officers on financial issues, including those at Oxford University Press and Oxford University Innovation. The Division also advises Council and other relevant University bodies on financial strategy; prepares the University’s financial statements, its operating plans and forecasts; and has oversight of the capital planning process and treasury management.

The Finance Division provides advice and information on financial matters affecting all University departments, divisions and subsidiary companies. The Division comprises a range of support services, including:

• financial operations: financial systems, expenses, payroll, payments, accounts receivable, accounts payable and project finance;
• financial reporting: management and statutory accounts, subsidiary company accounts, research accounts and gift registry;
• financial support: divisional finance teams, financial training, financial assurance, financial process improvement; and
• finance services: purchasing, treasury, insurance, tax and pensions.

The Finance Division operates both through specialist teams in the central office and dedicated divisional finance teams based in each divisional office.

Through the Financial Systems Service Desk, the Division also provides technical support and finance training to users of the Oracle Financials system.

The Chief Financial Officer reports to the Vice Chancellor.

More information

For staff: About the Finance Division on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Relevant webpages: Finance and funding

IT Service Desk: 01865 (6)12345

Postal addresses: 

IT Services, Dartington House, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD (administrative address)
IT Services, 13 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 6NN

Email: 

• Dartington House Reception: [email protected]
• Banbury Road Reception: [email protected]

Interim Director of IT Services: Dr Michael Fraser

EA/PA support to the Interim Director of IT Services: [email protected]

IT Services is the central IT department dedicated to supporting Oxford’s mission as a world-leading research and teaching university. The work of IT Services is wide-ranging and diverse: as well as the core IT systems, tools and services that keep the University running day-to-day, the department provides innovative services and projects to support effective education, administration, application of technology, research, and engagement, and dedicated digital capabilities support for staff and students.

Effective delivery of IT services and digital change programmes is a collaborative activity, requiring partnership between central IT, the academic divisions, departments and colleges. The department is also moving to a new, more agile and user-centred approach to digital service delivery, as part of the University’s ongoing digital transformation.

The Interim Director of IT Services, Dr Michael Fraser, reports to the Chief Digital & Information Officer (CDIO).

More information

For staff 

• About Information Security on OxIntranet (SSO required)
• About IT Services on OxIntranet (SSO required)
• IT and Digital information on OxIntranet (SSO required) – including IT help, Training & Skills, Projects & Change, Digital Services, Governance and Policy, and Cyber Security

For students:

IT and digital information for students

Other relevant webpages:

• Digital at Oxford
• IT support and services (for staff and those outside the University)
• Report a cyber incident

Enquiries: 01865 (2)70126
Email: [email protected]

Postal address: Legal Services, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford  OX1 2JD;
(for property matters, planning and construction issues): Legal Services, Estates Directorate, The Malthouse, Tidmarsh Lane, Oxford OX1 1NQ

Director of Legal Services and General Counsel: Andrew Mackie 
Office Manager & Executive Assistant: Megan Ramsay

The Legal Services Office provides legal advice across the University and to all the University's subsidiary companies over a wide area, including joint ventures; commercial law; competition law; procurement; risk management and insurance; finance; banking; tax; governance; education law; employment; student issues; harassment; discrimination; conflict of interest; trusts; data protection; freedom of information; intellectual property; real property; planning; construction; and the environment. Although it does not advise individuals in their private capacities, it may act where there is a University interest in an individual’s case.

The Director of Legal Services reports to the Vice-Chancellor. He and his legal colleagues also liaise with the Conference of Colleges Legal Panel on issues of relevance to the collegiate University as a whole, but they do not act for the colleges.

Enquiries: 01865 (2)89900

Postal address: People Department, 4 Worcester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BX.

Director of HR: Dr Markos Koumaditis
Executive Officer to the Director: Kate Ogilvy

The HR Director oversees the People Department, which encompasses the following teams:

• Strategic Workforce Planning
• Talent Acquisition
• Staff Immigration
• Learning and Organisational Development
• Reward and Benefits
• HR Systems and Analytics
• HR Policy and Employee Relations
• HR Business Partners
• Occupational Health Service
• Safety Office
• Staff Wellbeing Programme
• Childcare Services
• Equality and Diversity Unit

The People Department supports Council’s People Committee in the strategic development, implementation and review of comprehensive policies on all aspects of employment and employee relations.

The department’s day-to-day activity is focused on providing specialist advice to heads of department, chairs of faculty boards and departmental administrators in the context of an overall devolved approach to employment within the University. Staff are responsible for servicing various central staffing provisions, such as the joint consultative committees with employee representatives, grading, disciplinary appeals and certain elements of academic appointments. 

More information

About the People Department on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Relevant websites:

Jobs

Enquiries: 01865 (2)70008

Email: [email protected]

Postal address: Council Secretariat, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD

Director of Planning & Council Secretariat: Antony Willott

PA to the Director of Planning and Council Secretariat: Marisa Gedrych

More information

For staff: About Planning and Council Secretariat on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Relevant webpages:

Statutes and regulations

Enquiries: 01865 (2)80529

Postal address: Public Affairs Directorate (PAD), University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD

Director of Public Affairs and Communications: James Colman
Executive Assistant to the Director of Public Affairs and Communications: Rebecca Hedges

The role of PAD is to increase understanding of the aims and activities of the University, including its constituent departments, faculties and colleges. It also promotes effective internal communication within Oxford’s large and dispersed institutional structure.

PAD manages media relations and University news; produces a wide range of University publications, including the student prospectuses, the Gazette, University Bulletin and digital content for the alumni channel Oxford Today; runs the University’s Design Studio and image library; oversees use of the University brand; manages the content of the top levels of the University website and the University core social media sites; organises major University events; and advises on internal and external communications activity, and community and government relations.

More information:

For staff: Public Affairs Directorate contacts on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Relevant webpages:

• The University brand
• Information for journalists

Postal address: Research Services, University Offices, 5 Worcester Street, Oxford OX1 2BX.

Director of Research Services: Dr Lorna Thompson.
Executive Assistant to the Director of Research Services: Emily Dyer

Research Services works with Oxford’s researchers, divisions, departments, collaborators and funders to facilitate world-class research.

Research Services' responsibilities include providing advice and information on funding opportunities, supporting major bids, reviewing and authorising applications, accepting new awards, sponsor liaison, negotiating research-related contracts, advising on the costing and pricing of research, clinical trials governance, human research ethics and research integrity, facilitating intellectual property management, regional partnerships in research and innovation, fostering public engagement with research, supporting the work of the Research Committee and related groups, and helping to profile the impacts of Oxford research. 

The Director of Research Services reports to the Registrar. 

More information

For staff: About Research Services on OxIntranet (SSO required)

Relevant websites:

Research and innovation