Principal, Jesus College, Oxford

Located in the heart of Oxford, Jesus College combines the highest standards of academic excellence in teaching and research with a vibrant, inclusive and supportive community.   With a heritage of over 450 years, the College community comprises just over one thousand current members, and an active network of around six thousand alumni.

Jesus College prides itself on being progressive, ambitious and friendly, with a set of core values enshrined in a strategic plan that emphasises custodianship, community and a desire for excellence in all aspects of College life. Key to its success is a commitment to fostering outstanding teaching and research grounded in an inclusive ethos. The College supports and nurtures the brightest young minds, regardless of background, through its access programmes and generous student support schemes. The College encourages and celebrates the teaching and research endeavours of its thriving academic community, and places great value on the work of its professional services staff.

The current Principal, Professor Sir Nigel Shadbolt, completes his term in July 2026. Jesus College is therefore seeking a new Principal to build on its rich cultural heritage, enhance its reputation for innovative teaching and research, and inspire its diverse community. The Principal leads the College as first among equals, with a broad remit that covers supporting scholarly accomplishment, ensuring financial strength, invigorating the collegiate community, overseeing operational efficiency, providing external representation, and taking a lead role in fundraising.

Candidates for the position should possess a strong track record of academic and/or other intellectual distinction.  They should be able to balance the needs and interests of students, academics and professional services staff, and have a proven record of commitment to ideals that are consistent with those of the collegiate University.  The person appointed will share and strengthen the College’s core values and aims, and will act as a custodian of its interests.

In keeping with the inclusive ethos of the College, applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds, including those under-represented at leadership levels in Higher Education.

For more information, visit https://www.minervasearch.com/current-opportunities/jesusox/ 

The closing date for applications, which should be in the form of a CV and cover letter emailed to jesusox@minervasearch.com, is Friday, 28 February 2025. 

For an informal discussion please contact jesusox@minervasearch.com. 

It is anticipated that in-person meetings and interviews will take place at Jesus College in May and June 2025.

Equal opportunities

Jesus College welcomes and celebrates diversity. We strive towards creating an inclusive environment, where our staff and those associated with the College feel valued and respected. We want them to thrive, regardless of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Our staff are an integral part of our community, and we cherish equally those qualities that make each of us unique, and those that bring us together. 

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