Brussels Office Manager

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £47,389 to £56,535 with potential progression once in post to £63,606

The University of Birmingham is a leading global institution, committed to delivering world‑class education and research with societal impact. Central to this ambition is the University’s European Office in Brussels, which demonstrates our strategic commitment to strengthening partnerships with European institutions, funders, policymakers and industry. Located near Square de Meeûs, the Brussels Office enhances the University’s visibility, influence and engagement within the European research and innovation ecosystem.

As a strong UK performer in Horizon Europe Pillar II funding, the University has an established record of success in collaborative European research. The Brussels Office plays a vital role in expanding and diversifying these networks, supporting early intelligence gathering, consortium development and strategic positioning for future funding calls.

We are seeking an experienced Research Development professional to lead the Brussels Office as part of the University’s EU Funding and Partnership Strategy. Based in Edgbaston with regular presence in Brussels, the postholder will connect University of Birmingham researchers with European funders and partners, working closely with Research Strategy & Services Division (RSSD) Research Development and Business Engagement teams.

The role holder will act as a key source of intelligence on EU research policy, funding opportunities and partnership developments, ensuring researchers are well positioned to engage in Horizon Europe and related programmes. They will develop and sustain a strong personal network across EU institutions, research organisations, industry and policy stakeholders, fostering new collaborations and supporting access to funding through EU framework programmes and direct partnerships.

Key responsibilities include leading the delivery of the University’s EU Research & Innovation Strategy; developing strategic engagement activity in Brussels, including high‑profile events aligned to University research strengths; supporting consortium development and bid preparation; and translating EU intelligence into actionable opportunities for researchers. The postholder will also act as Secretary to the University’s EU Research & Innovation Board, supporting coordination and strategic oversight.

The role requires a politically astute and collaborative individual with strong leadership, diplomacy and negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of European research funding and policy environments. The postholder will contribute creatively to strengthening engagement between University researchers and European partners and will assist with the effective operation of the Brussels Office.

The postholder will report to the Head of Research Strategy & Development (EU & International) and work closely with the International Research Development Manager (Business Engagement, Research & Innovation), supported by the EU Strategy Board. The University offers a supportive, innovative and inclusive working environment where professional staff play a critical role in advancing research excellence and global impact.

Informal enquiries to Eleonore Dispersyn-Nievergelt, email: e.dispersyn-nievergelt@bham.ac.uk

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

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