Senior Research Operations Manager

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Operations Manager to join our Faculty Management Services team. This pivotal role will provide strategic and operational leadership in support of the faculty’s research agenda, with a particular focus on research impact and preparation for the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029. 

The post holder will work closely with the Head of Research Operations, the Vice Dean (Research & Impact), and other senior stakeholders to coordinate and optimise the faculty’s REF submission. This includes advising on research impact, managing complex data, and ensuring compliance with institutional and sector-wide policies. The role holder will also play a key role in developing and promoting a portfolio of impactful research case studies that highlight the faculty’s contributions to society.

The successful candidate will have substantial experience in research operations within the UK Higher Education sector, excellent analytical and communication skills, and a strong understanding of research impact and assessment. The successful applicant will be confident working with data systems, leading projects, and representing the faculty at university-wide committees and external networks. 

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of one of the UK’s leading research faculties and to support the delivery of high-quality, impactful research that makes a real difference. 

This is a full time role (35 hours per week) and you will be offered an indefinite contract.

About you

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria

• Extensive experience and qualifications relevant to the post, with clear progression of seniority and expertise 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to produce concise written material and reports for a range of audiences 
• Substantial knowledge and experience of the UK Higher Education Research landscape, especially of Research Excellence framework and research impact
• Significant demonstrable experience of operating at a strategic level; able to contribute meaningfully to discussion and planning
• Excellent analytical and numerical skills; a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Demonstrable evidence of working on own initiative to clear criteria, ensuring compliance using negotiating skills and effective but diverse communication methods
• Experience of organising, supporting and playing a key part in committees, working groups and professional networks
• Excellent organisational and time management skills to meet multiple deadlines and manage a constant and varied portfolio of responsibilities
• Understanding of methodologies for developing and maximising research impact

Desirable criteria

• Experience of leading a service
• Familiarity with HR processes and policy around equality
• Editorial experience with a keen eye for detail, including experience of writing, copy editing and formatting documents, newsletters, reports or other written material for internal and external audiences.

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