Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward-thinking institution rooted in, and connected to, a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised university focused on providing high-quality teaching and delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new, and excelling in education and research.”
Our people are at the heart of the University - our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange depends on the engagement, capability and wellbeing of our people. We strive to create and encourage an environment where people have the opportunity to develop, progress and thrive.
In acknowledgment of our commitment to gender equality and progression, we proudly hold the Athena SWAN Bronze Award and a Race Equality Charter Bronze Award, a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Join us at Oxford Brookes University, where every step forward is a leap toward a brighter tomorrow.
Brookes Sport & Active Wellness are delighted to offer this exciting new opportunity within the growing Sport Development team.
This student facing role provides an opportunity for someone to combine a passion for sport and physical activity, competitive sport, and sport development.
The Club Development Officer will play a vital role in delivering Oxford Brookes University’s student sport programme, supporting the development of sports clubs and enhancing the overall student experience.
The role will coordinate the development and delivery of the University’s sports club offer, working closely with student committees, volunteers, and coaches to ensure high standards of governance, inclusivity, and development.
It plays a key role in enabling student leadership, strengthening club culture, and supporting participation pathways from recreational to competitive sport, aligned with the University’s Sport & Active Wellness strategy.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the primary contact for sports clubs, providing guidance on development, governance, and day-to-day operations.
- Support the creation and delivery of club development plans aligned with strategic objectives.
- Coordinate the annual club affiliation process and ensure compliance with operational standards.
- Deliver training and development opportunities for student committees, volunteers, and coaches.
- Support the delivery of major events including Welcome Week, Varsity, Club Elections, and Sports Awards.
- Build and maintain relationships with internal teams, National Governing Bodies, and community partners.
- Provide administrative and operational support including bookings, travel, budgeting, and kit.
- Promote inclusive practices and increase participation from underrepresented groups.
- Monitor and evaluate club performance through data collection and feedback.
- Ensure appropriate risk management, safeguarding, and health & safety processes are in place.
About You
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in sport, education, leisure, or a related field.
- Experience supporting or delivering sport or community development programmes.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
- Knowledge of university sport structures (e.g. BUCS) and student-led environments (desirable).
- Experience delivering training or workshops and managing budgets (desirable).
- Relevant qualifications such as coaching, First Aid, or Mental Health First Aid (desirable).
For further information or to have an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dan Tibbitt, via D.Tibbitt@Brookes.ac.uk.
About the Location
This role is based at our Headington Campus. You’ll experience a vibrant campus atmosphere. The campus is well-served by regular public transport and is just a mile from Oxford city centre. This is an operational, site-based role due to the nature of reception services, requiring presence on campus to support the team and our members.
Benefits
As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 bank holidays and additional university concessionary days (normally 5 per year).
We have an extremely competitive Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, as well as providing all staff with access to an occupational health service, financial education, and a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.
In addition, all employees have access to:
- Discounted rates for the university sports and gym facilities
- An on-site nursery (at Headington Campus; waiting lists for some ages)
- Discounted travel options
- TOTUM card discount scheme
- Training and development opportunities
- A connected community - Brookes have a wide variety of staff networks providing support, guidance, and friendship.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting out of the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.
This role will not attract sufficient points to obtain a sponsored Skilled Worker visa under the points based immigration system.
How to Apply
Apply online using the “Apply for Job” button. You will need to upload:
● Your CV
● A Personal Statement, explaining how your skills and experience meet the role requirements