Research and Innovation Policy and Governance Officer

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. We are ambitious and have a bold vision - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world - which we are achieving through the talents and endeavour of every employee. We are seeking a highly proactive Policy & Governance Officer to join our Assurance team within the Research, Innovation & Impact (RII) Directorate.

About the role

The Research and Innovation Policy and Governance Officer plays a key role in supporting the University's research governance and assurance framework. The post holder provides high-quality secretariat and administrative support to a range of Research and Innovation committees, including the University Research and Innovation Committee, the University Ethics Committee, and other working groups. They are responsible for coordinating committee business, preparing agendas and papers, taking accurate minutes, managing follow-up actions, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies and regulatory requirements

The role also involves maintaining and reviewing Research and Innovation policies, procedures, and webpages to ensure they remain accurate, accessible, and up to date. Working closely with committee chairs, senior academic colleagues, and professional services teams, the post holder acts as a central point of contact for governance-related enquiries and contributes to assurance activities, audits, and regulatory projects across the University. The position requires a high degree of organisation, autonomy, and attention to detail to support the effective operation of the University's research and innovation activities. 

This role is permanent and is available as a full-time opportunity, but 0.8 FTE can be considered.

About you

The successful candidate will be an experienced administrator with excellent organisational skills and a proven ability to manage complex documentation accurately and efficiently. They will possess strong written and verbal communication skills, be confident using Microsoft Office applications, and have the ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues at all levels of the organisation. Experience of document control and handling sensitive or confidential information with discretion is essential. 

Candidates should be able to work independently, prioritise competing demands, and apply sound judgement when dealing with routine and non-routine issues. They will demonstrate strong planning, problem-solving, and customer service skills, alongside a commitment to continuous improvement. Experience supporting senior committees, governance bodies, or regulatory functions would be advantageous, as would an understanding of working within a highly regulated or compliance-focused environment.

How to apply

To apply, please complete the online application form in which you will be asked some criteria questions to help us understand your suitability for the position. You may also submit a CV and supporting letter to complement your application; however, applications submitted without a completed online application form will not be considered. Please note that we are unable to accept CV-only applications.

For an informal chat about the role, please contact Elizabeth Bailey, Head of Assurance: e.bailey@surrey.ac.uk

Further details

For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply online' button above.

In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate, flexible working options including job share and blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer

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