CRANE Programme Manager (Chief Operating Officer)

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Department of Computer Science at Oxford is renowned for pioneering research and teaching across diverse fields, consistently ranking among the best in the world. Our commitment to innovation drives us to tackle complex technological and societal challenges.

Are you ready to lead the administration of a transformative national project in cybersecurity research? As the CRANE Programme Manager, you will oversee the UK’s Cybersecurity Research and Networking Environment (CRANE) project, funded by the EPSRC. You’ll coordinate efforts to bring together researchers, industry, government, and third-sector partners, fostering an inclusive and impactful network that addresses the latest cybersecurity challenges.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

This role also offers the opportunity for hybrid working, with a minimum of three days per week on-site to facilitate key stakeholder engagement and project integration.

About the Role

As the CRANE Programme Manager, you will play a vital role in driving forward this high-impact initiative to strengthen the UK’s cybersecurity landscape. Key responsibilities include:

• Working with the academic leads to develop, implement, and oversee the CRANE project plan, ensuring that each phase meets strategic objectives and is responsive to emerging needs.
• Managing the project budget, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with funder and University guidelines.
• Coordinating with an Executive Group to monitor progress, advise on project risks, and integrate strategic developments.
• Engaging with a broad network of stakeholders from academia, industry, and government, fostering partnerships and collaborative opportunities.
• Leading a team of professional services staff, ensuring effective delivery across event management, communications, grant administration, and impact tracking.

Your work will be instrumental in creating a collaborative, interdisciplinary cybersecurity community that delivers tangible benefits for the UK and beyond.

About You

We are looking for a proactive, results-oriented leader with:

• A master’s degree (or equivalent experience) and a project management qualification.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale, multi-partner projects within a research or higher education context.
• Strong financial management skills, including budget creation, compliance oversight, and experience with funder reporting requirements.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to engage, influence, and build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• A commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a supportive environment for all contributors to the CRANE network.
• Your organisational skills and strategic mindset will be essential to steer this project toward success, enhancing the UK’s cybersecurity research capacity.

Diversity

Committed to equality and valuing diversity.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is midday on Tuesday 26 November 2024

Interviews will take place during week commencing 9 December 2024 and will be face to face.