Licensing & Ventures Associate – Physical Sciences

The Opportunity

• Are you passionate about telling powerful stories that showcase world-changing innovation? 
• Can you translate complex ideas into compelling narratives that engage global audiences? 
• Do you thrive on delivering high-impact communications campaigns that build reputation and influence?

If so, OUI invites you to apply for the role of External Communications Manager.

OUI is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Oxford, playing a vital role in transforming world-leading knowledge and research into impact at scale. This is an exciting opportunity to lead and shape how we communicate OUI’s expertise in turning early-stage ideas into impact, engaging audiences across industry, government, investment, media, and academia.

As External Communications Manager, you will be a key member of OUI’s Communications & Marketing team, responsible for leading and delivering external communications that enhance our visibility, credibility, and engagement.

This is a strategic and hands-on role where you will deliver integrated external communications campaigns aligned to OUI’s strategy, creating high-quality content across channels including media, digital, and social. You will manage OUI’s social media platforms, drive engagement through insight-led content, and work with media and PR agencies to build profile and manage reputation. You will also collaborate on visual storytelling, maintain the content calendar, act as a trusted advisor to colleagues, and build strong relationships across OUI, the University of Oxford, and external partners.

What we’re looking for

You will be an experienced communications professional who combines strategic thinking with excellent delivery. You’ll be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities while maintaining high standards.

You should be able to demonstrate:

• Significant experience in external communications, with a strong track record of delivering measurable PR and campaign outcomes 
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to craft clear, engaging and impactful content 
• A talent for translating complex scientific, technical or commercial concepts into accessible stories 
• Experience managing social media channels and digital campaigns using data and insight 
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders, media, and external partners 
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple workstreams 
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to build effective working relationships 
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality

At OUI, we’re committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). We aim to create an inclusive environment with fair access to opportunities, where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. We bring together people with deep experience and broad expertise across research, business, investment and public impact. We want all our people to thrive, contribute their perspectives, and play an active role in our collective success. 

OUI is accredited with the Investors in People Gold status. 

Find out more about how we work, our Values and our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

We know that people do their best work when they can balance their professional and personal commitments. That’s why we offer flexible and hybrid working arrangements that support different ways of working and help our colleagues thrive. 

We’re committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace that works well for both OUI and our people, while attracting and retaining talented people from a wide range of backgrounds, including parents, carers, and those with interests and responsibilities outside work.