Meet the HAF: Sophie Gibbons
Sophie Gibbons is the Head of Administration and Finance (HAF) at the University of Oxford’s Department of Computer Science. With over two decades of management experience across higher education and the public and private sectors, Sophie brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership expertise to the department. Before joining the University, she worked in a similar role in children's social care and youth justice. This experience has given her a deep understanding of the importance of robust systems, clear communication, and compassionate leadership.
Having joined the Department of Computer Science after holding the role of HAF in other departments at the University, including the Department of Social Policy and Intervention and the Department of Economics, Sophie has been driving key operational and strategic developments in one of Oxford’s largest and most research-active academic units since 2022.
As the HAF, Sophie leads the professional services team, ensuring the department operates efficiently while supporting the world-leading research and teaching that takes place within its walls. She oversees all administrative and financial functions, including budgeting, research administration, human resources, and strategic planning. Working closely with the Head of Department, Sophie provides proactive strategic advice and plays a key role in the department’s long-term planning and organisational transformation.
Sophie’s commitment to the well-being and professional growth of her colleagues complements her leadership in administration, creating a supportive and collaborative environment for all.
What have been the highlights of the role so far?
The last two years have been hard work but incredibly rewarding. One of the greatest highlights has been the opportunity to work in such a unique and dynamic environment. The Department of Computer Science is filled with some of the most talented and diverse individuals, from world-leading academics to highly skilled professional services staff. Getting to know a brand new academic area has been both fascinating and challenging, and I've loved being part of a department that is constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation and discovery. The dedication and professionalism of the professional services staff have stood out—they are the backbone of the department, and their unwavering commitment to supporting both students and academic colleagues has been truly inspiring.
What might surprise people about your role?
I think many people may be surprised by just how varied the role of a HAF is. It's not just about managing budgets or ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. A significant part of the role involves long-term strategic thinking, fostering an inclusive culture, and managing change. It requires balancing both the administrative needs of the department and the broader academic goals, all while ensuring staff and students feel supported and motivated. Additionally, the HAF role involves a deep engagement with the research community—understanding their work and helping to shape the structures that allow ground-breaking research to thrive. It's a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable role, but that’s what makes it exciting.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a HAF?
My advice to someone considering the role of HAF would be to cultivate both strategic vision and operational precision. The ability to see the bigger picture while ensuring that the finer details are managed is key. You also need to be adaptable—university departments are complex, ever-evolving environments, and the ability to manage change is essential. Building strong relationships is equally important. Your role will intersect with many different areas, from academics to administrative staff, and creating a collaborative and trusting atmosphere will help you succeed. Lastly, I’d say that it's important to remember that the role is not just about managing systems—it's about leading people, supporting them, and helping them grow.