In the 1960s, Oxfam's Liaison Officer, based in Geneva, maintained Oxfam's contacts within the international community, kept Oxford informed of developments among agencies there, and represented Oxfam at meetings of international bodies.

In the early 1970s an International Secretary was appointed, based in Oxford, whose duties included liaison with international organizations, support of educational and fundraising initiatives outside the U.K., and promotion of such work. Some of these duties had previously been carried out by an Assistant to the Director of Oxfam and other staff.