Oxfordshire County Council is seeking a skilled Public Health Principal for a full-time, fixed-term maternity cover. Based in Central Oxford with hybrid working (approximately two days per week in-office), this senior role leads the Live Well Promote and Prevent portfolio. The successful candidate will oversee strategic public health programmes focused on healthy weight, physical activity, tobacco control, and workplace wellbeing. Responsibilities include staff management, budget oversight, commissioning services, and applying evidence-based practice to reduce health inequalities. Applicants should hold a postgraduate qualification in Public Health and have at least three years senior-level experience.
Main duties of the job
This is a leadership opportunity for a proactive public health professional to drive impactful change across Oxfordshire. The role demands strategic thinking, strong communication, and a commitment to improving population health outcomes.
About us
Oxfordshire County Council champions prevention and equity in public health. The council offers flexible working, generous leave, pension benefits, and inclusive policies supporting diversity, safeguarding, and guaranteed interview schemes.
Job responsibilities
Public Health Principal Maternity Cover (Fixed Term/Secondment)
Location: Central Oxford (Hybrid working approx. 2 days/week in office)
Contract: Full-time, fixed term to cover maternity leave in the first instance
Oxfordshire County Council is seeking a proactive and experienced Public Health Principal to lead the Live Well Promote and Prevent portfolio. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape and deliver public health programmes that support healthier lifestyles and reduce health inequalities across the county.
About the Role
You'll lead a team focused on whole systems approaches to:
* Healthy weight and food
* Physical activity
* Smoking and tobacco control
This senior role involves:
* Strategic leadership across the public health spectrum
* Line management of staff and delegated budget oversight
* Commissioning and contract management of related services
* Interpreting national policy and evidence base and applying evidence-based practice
* Assessing population needs ensuring programmes are designed and delivered to reach those most in need
About You
We're looking for a skilled public health professional with:
* A degree and postgraduate qualification (Masters level) in Public Health or a related field
* Registration or equivalent professional qualification (e.g. UKPHR)
* Minimum 3 years senior-level experience in public health with highly specialised knowledge over a range of programmes
* Strong understanding of public health principles, local government, and partnership working
* Proven ability to lead change, interpret data, and deliver outcomes
* Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
About Us
Public Health in Oxfordshire is evolving, with a strong focus on prevention and tackling health inequalities. Our work aligns with the councils vision for a greener, fairer, and healthier county. You'll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking and experienced team committed to making a real difference.
Rewards and Benefits
We offer:
* Flexible working arrangements, including agile and hybrid working
* Generous annual leave (up to 32 days) with the option to buy more
* Local Government Pension Scheme (up to 19.9% employer contribution)
* Extensive learning and development opportunities
* Retail discounts and enhanced family-friendly policies
Commitment to Inclusion and Support
We are proud of our diverse workforce and inclusive culture. We offer:
* Guaranteed interviews for disabled applicants and care leavers meeting essential criteria
* Support for veterans transitioning from HM Armed Forces
* Flexible working options including part-time, job share, and annualised hours
How to Apply
Interview dates: 12th or 13th November (in person, Oxford)
If you meet the essential criteria for this post and would like an informal discussion please contact:
Person Specification
General Requirements
* Please refer to job description above
* Please refer to job description above
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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