Oxford Lifelong Learning in the Department for Continuing Education is seeking to appoint a Diplomatic Practice Co-ordinator for the Foundations of Diplomacy Pre-Master’s Course which is delivered through the Department’s Professional and Open Access Courses section. The course is a full-time, six-month programme taught in person in Oxford from late September to late March and combines theoretical instruction with experiential learning and applied practice.
About the role
The Diplomatic Practice Co-ordinator is responsible for delivering introductory-level courses in diplomatic practice to UK and overseas graduate students with little or no formal experience in the field of diplomacy.
The role requires academic oversight of several diplomatic practice modules which currently comprise four ten-week modules taught over two terms: Diplomacy in Practice I and II, Public Diplomacy, and Diplomatic Simulations. Each module consists of 10 x 90-minute weekly seminars.
The role encompasses leadership, teaching, assessment, and the coordination of educational visits in the UK and overseas that expose students to the world of diplomacy in practice.
The postholder will bring substantial professional diplomatic experience and will be able to integrate academic theory with practical insight.
Working closely with the Programme Director and professional services team, the postholder will play a key role in ensuring that students gain both academic foundations and practical understanding of how diplomacy operates in real-world contexts.
This is a 0.4 FTE position, available on a permanent contract.
About you
You are an engaging and knowledgeable educator with a strong background in diplomacy, international relations, or a closely related field. You bring significant experiential insight into the evolving world of diplomacy, and are confident designing and delivering dynamic, discussion-led teaching on topics such as diplomatic practice, international institutions, negotiation, and soft power. You enjoy working closely with students in small-group settings, supporting their academic development and helping them build strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills.
You are equally comfortable operating beyond the classroom. You have the confidence and professional credibility to engage with external stakeholders, including embassies, international organisations, NGOs, and think tanks. You are highly organised and capable of coordinating educational visits and field trips, and you are enthusiastic about accompanying and mentoring students during these experiences, including international travel.
You have experience in designing and marking a range of assessments relevant to the field such as policy briefs, position papers, and presentations and are committed to providing clear, constructive feedback that supports student progression.
Collaborative and forward-thinking, you contribute to curriculum development and ensure your teaching reflects current developments in global diplomacy and international affairs. You work effectively with academic and administrative colleagues, uphold high standards of delivery, and are committed to maintaining quality, inclusivity, and professionalism in all aspects of your work.
Ideally, you will have experience in creating interactive learning environments, using simulations and role-play to bring complex diplomatic processes to life.
Above all, you are passionate about preparing students for careers in international fields and are motivated to deliver an intellectually rigorous and practically relevant learning experience.
About us
The Department provides opportunities for people from a wide variety of backgrounds to benefit from the University’s rich and unique resources. We are ambitious and forward-thinking, with a strong sense of identity and community. Our mission is to inspire people locally, nationally and globally by extending access to Oxford’s world-class teaching and resources through flexible and inclusive opportunities for study and research.
Colleagues uphold the Mission, Vision and Values of the Department and actively promote a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion.
What we offer
Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:
An excellent contributory pension scheme
38 days’ annual leave
A comprehensive range of childcare services
Family leave schemes
Cycle loan scheme
Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
Application process
You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 20 June 2026.
Interviews will be held on 10 July 2026.
Bring your expertise to the University of Oxford and be a part of a community that values creativity, diversity, and excellence. The University of Oxford is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals regardless of their background.
