Job Details

Founded in 1555, St John’s College, Oxford is a vibrant, international and socially diverse collegiate community, characterised by a strong sense of identity and belonging, and a long tradition of academic excellence. Through its teaching and research, St John’s seeks to transform lives and to have a positive impact on society locally, nationally and internationally. It is particularly recognised for its innovative and pioneering ‘Inspire’ access and outreach programmes. The College sits on an impressive site in the heart of Oxford. Its historic buildings and extensive gardens are complemented by first-class modern facilities.

St John’s 7,570 alumni are members of a lifelong community – global, dynamic and mutually connected to this unique and beautiful place. A recent feasibility study of the College’s Development and Alumni Relations operations highlighted the potential for a broader and more creative approach to engaging its alumni and supporters – individuals whose networks, mentoring, advocacy and intellectual connection to the College matter as much as their generous financial support.

This is a pivotal moment for St John’s. The recent appointment of a new Director of Development coincides with the launch of a new strategic plan and the College’s ambition to embark on a step change in its philanthropic and engagement activity. The President, Professor Lady Sue Black, and College’s broader leadership, are fully engaged across Development and Alumni Engagement, with a clear vision and their fullest support.

The Head of Alumni Engagement is a newly created role, responsible for shaping and delivering the College’s alumni engagement strategy, driving a compelling offer that inspires our community and encourages them to support the College through their gifts of time, talent, and philanthropic support. We are looking for someone with ideas and drive to craft and deliver a set of programmes to engage alumni and supporters through high-profile events, communications, careers and mentoring, networking and volunteer activities.

Joining the St John’s Development and Alumni Relations team is an opportunity for a creative professional with strong project management and events experience, marketing and communications expertise, and excellent interpersonal skills: Someone who will thrive on the opportunity to build a new programme, as part of an established and well-resourced team, working with an already engaged alumni base and St John’s extraordinary heritage. The opportunity to work in this beautiful central Oxford college and be part of the St John’s community is rare and special. If all of this appeals, we’d love to hear from you.

38 days’ holiday | USS Pension | Hybrid working | Free hot lunch

Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to help you in your application or with our recruitment process. 

International candidates who are interested in relocating to the UK will be considered as visa support is available for this position.

St John’s College is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for all. We encourage job applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage women and candidates from other under-represented groups to apply for advertised positions.

 Closing date for applications is 09:00 on Monday 7th September 2026