University of Oxford - Development and Alumni Engagement

Who we are

About the University of Oxford

Welcome to the University of Oxford. We aim to lead the world in research and education for the benefit of society both in the UK and globally. Oxford’s researchers engage with academic, commercial and cultural partners across the world to stimulate high-quality research and enable innovation through a broad range of social, policy and economic impacts.

We believe our strengths lie both in empowering individuals and teams to address fundamental questions of global significance, while providing all our staff with a welcoming and inclusive workplace that enables everyone to develop and do their best work. Recognising that diversity is our strength, vital for innovation and creativity, we aspire to build a truly diverse community which values and respects every individual’s unique contribution.

While we have long traditions of scholarship, we are also forward-looking, creative and cutting-edge. Oxford is one of Europe's most entrepreneurial universities and we rank first in the UK for university spin-outs, and in recent years we have spun out 15-20 new companies every year. We are also recognised as leaders in support for social enterprise.

Join us and you will find a unique, democratic and international community, a great range of staff benefits and access to a vibrant array of cultural activities in the beautiful city of Oxford.  

Development and Alumni Engagement

Oxford is entering a defining new chapter in its philanthropic work. The Oxford Excellence campaign will support the University’s ability to tackle some of the world’s most complex challenges, from climate change and global resilience to health, society, community and citizenship. Through Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE), the University works with colleagues across the collegiate University to secure philanthropic and volunteering support for academic priorities, student opportunity, research excellence and work with international reach.

Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) works in partnership with colleagues across the collegiate University to build meaningful, lasting relationships with alumni, donors and supporters around the world. Led by Liesl Elder, Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer, who reports directly to the Vice-Chancellor, DAE plays a central role in advancing Oxford’s ambitions through philanthropy and alumni engagement.

DAE connects people who care about Oxford with opportunities to support its teaching, research, students and wider societal impact. Working in support of the University’s academic priorities, the department helps secure donations across all aspects of academic and student endeavour. Through this work, DAE helps ensure that talented students can study at Oxford regardless of background, that research can deliver benefit on an international scale, and that the University’s expertise is brought to bear on some of the world’s biggest challenges.

As one of the University’s central administrative departments, within University Administrative Services, DAE works closely with teams across the University, including Public Affairs, Finance, Research Services and Legal Services. Its work depends on strong collaboration, professional expertise and a shared commitment to supporting Oxford’s academic mission.

DAE is committed to equality and values diversity. The University holds a Silver Athena Swan Award, recognising its work to advance gender equality, representation, progression and success for all.

Our culture and values

Development and Alumni Engagement values

The following points lay down the foundations of DAE’s working ethos, culture and values. Aspirational and celebratory in turn, they provide a central framework for individual members of staff and teams, encouraging personal and professional growth.

• We value each other – We respect the professional expertise of our colleagues. An approachable, friendly and kind office, we work in an environment where transparency of action and clarity of intent create openness and trust.
• We work collaboratively – Whether within our own teams, across DAE, the collegiate University, or beyond, working collaboratively is second nature to us, and enables us to navigate complicated landscapes successfully.
• We go beyond – We prize working with a high degree of autonomy and trust, and deliver a wide range of projects to the very highest standards. We are committed to personal, professional development.
• We are part of something bigger – Our work supports the strategic priorities of the University of Oxford. We take pride in the contribution we – individually and collectively – make to the University.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

The University of Oxford is committed to equal opportunity, and to being a place where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission.

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Employment with the University and progression within employment will be determined according to personal merit and the application of criteria related to the duties and conditions of the post. In all cases, the primary consideration will be the ability to perform the job.

As stated in the University’s Equality Policy and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan, our commitment to equality and diversity goes hand in hand with our commitment to academic freedom and free speech.

The University holds a silver Athena Swan award to recognise advancement of gender equality: representation, progression and success for all