Senior Policy Adviser - Knowledge Exchange

About us

Working with colleagues internally, in institutions, with academic and other experts and Government and other partner organisations, the post-holder will develop and deliver policy across a range of areas of activity within knowledge exchange.

We use the term ‘knowledge exchange’ to cover the multiple interactions between universities and businesses, public services, charities and communities to create societal and economic benefit. These interactions include joint research and development projects, consultancy and training, knowledge transfer partnerships and setting up new companies and social enterprises. 

Purpose of the job

The main purpose of these roles are overseeing funding allocations and/or funded awards and in policy development – particularly assimilating evidence that is both qualitative and quantitative and producing detailed papers and briefings.

Main outputs and activities

KE policy responsibilities of the post:

• Contribute to the development of KE policy and funding, particularly incorporating policy objectives within the processes, while considering the level of institutional burden and monitoring information required.
• Supporting the development of Spending Review evidence, both qualitative and quantitative.
• Responding to queries from Government, including updates on emerging policy priorities and more business-as-usual work on KE policy activity,
• Specific responsibility for considering evidence and analysis to inform research and evaluation and monitoring of KE policy/HEIF, including assisting in procuring and commissioning external work and managing external suppliers as necessary;
• Working on projects as they arise to meet emerging KE policy priorities and other emerging Research England priorities;
• Supporting the development of Spending Review evidence, both qualitative and quantitative

Generic responsibilities of the post:

• Manage and develop effective relations with universities and other external organisations;
• Assess and use accurate qualitative and quantitative evidence in policy development;
• Internal project management (may include co-ordinating project management with external groups and/or using consultants to deliver part of reform programme);
• Represent Research England at external meetings and presenting to external groups;
• Initial preparation of Research England Board papers and other documents;

Shortlisting criteria

• Experience of working in a higher education, or research-based organisation.
• Experience of policy development in the HE sector.
• Demonstrable interest in developing knowledge of the higher education sector in which UKRI operates.
• Experience of working effectively in a team, planning and leading activities.
• Ability to write clear and accurate correspondence, appropriately tailored to the audience and in accordance with the ‘house’ style.
• A confident and approachable communicator able to communicate and build effective working relationships with people at all levels internally and externally, in a clear, concise and fluent manner.
• Demonstrating a creative, flexible and positive approach to problem solving.

Additional information

Developing talent:

We are committed to developing employees in their roles throughout their career. Learning and development plans enable employees to continue their professional development through training and development opportunities such as e-learning, classroom training and on-the-job experiences. We encourage our employees to share their learning across teams and organisations.

Benefits:

UKRI can offer the successful candidate:

- Flexible Working

- 30 days annual leave + Public Holidays

- Access to Civil Service Pension Scheme

- Various everyday discounts through our dedicated provider

Visit our dedicated benefits webpage for more info: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

To apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above

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