Research EDI Programme Manager

At British Heart Foundation (BHF), we believe that diversity drives high quality research and innovation that leads to improved patient outcomes. But we also know that there are still inequalities in the cardiovascular research ecosystem. 

As our Research EDI Programme Manager, you’ll be focused on delivering BHF’s internal and external commitments to address inequalities in cardiovascular research. You’ll initially focus on implementing the commitments relating to inequalities in the research ecosystem outlined in BHF’s equality, diversity and inclusion strategy, Igniting Change, and will also play a key role in shaping the commitments to address inequalities in the research workforce and in research design beyond 2025. 

You’ll work closely with stakeholders across BHF and, as a key person within the Research Inequalities Working Group, you’ll work closely with the EDI Programme Team, the Head of EDI, communications, and the leads of other workstreams on health inequalities and BHF’s colleague workforce, to ensure alignment of activities where necessary, consistent reporting and a concerted approach to delivering on BHF’s ambitions. 

Acting as an EDI specialist in research inequalities, you’ll raise and promote awareness of EDI, providing advice and guidance to the research funding team, as well as developing and promoting more inclusive and best practice policies and processes to ensure EDI is embedded throughout BHF’s grant management life cycle. 

About you 

We're looking for someone driven, motivated, action-oriented, and who works collaboratively to drive change to take on this crucial role. 

Able to progress and deliver desired outcomes in programmes, projects, activities, tasks and budget management, this would likely involve project/ programme management experience, but does not necessarily require a formal qualification (such as PRINCE2), you’ll have a robust understanding of the research and innovation funding landscape, in particular the importance and impact of EDI within the research ecosystem. 

You’ll have working knowledge of the medical research charity/ academic sector, particularly how activities are delivered and progressed, and will also have experience of leading, managing and/ or contributing to end-to-end projects/programmes to achieve ambitious outcomes to a high level of quality. 

With previous experience in building and managing relationships at all levels in the organisation, you’ll also have the following skills and experience:

• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Able to progress activities within a complex organisational environment.
• Able to think creatively above and beyond immediate requirements to proactively solve problems.
• Good organisational and analytical skills, with great attention to detail.
• A proactive and driven approach.
• Able to influence and persuade others, including senior leaders, and to build consensus within a group – and comfortable in doing so.
• Good at building and managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including senior leaders. 

How to apply 

It’s quick and easy to apply for a role at the BHF. Just click on the apply button below. All you’ll need is an up-to-date CV and a supporting statement, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the role’s criteria. 

As part of our commitment to be an inclusive employer and ensure fairness and consistency in selecting the best candidate for this role, the BHF will use anonymous CV software as part of the application journey. 

Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact us.

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