Overview
Public Health Principal – OX1 1ND
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Salary: £63576 – £67003
Working Hours: 37
Location: Oxfordshire
Business Unit: Public Health & Communities
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
- Workplace wellbeing
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 council’s 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
Closing date: Monday 3rd November 2026
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:
Derys Pragnell, Consultant in Public Health Derys.pragnell@oxfordshire.gov.uk
