Head of Research and Development

Overview

In this role you will lead the Trust’s Research and Development function to shape and deliver the research agenda across our health services. You will drive research governance, performance, and external partnerships with universities and stakeholders, translating findings into improved care for mental health and learning disability services. You’ll work with cross‑functional teams to grow high‑quality research and support scalable programmes aligned with our long‑term ambitions. This is a high-impact, leadership position at a mission-driven NHS foundation trust.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Trust’s Research and Development team and ensure safe, compliant delivery of studies and trials
• Develop and implement research strategy and governance frameworks
• Secure external funding and manage research budgets and contracts
• Oversee research governance, regulatory compliance, and performance reporting
• Support large-scale research programmes and cultivate partnerships with NHS, academia, industry, NIHR and other partners
• Provide assurance on research quality to Trust leadership and champion knowledge mobilisation into practice

Key requirements

• Health related degree or equivalent
• Postgraduate management/research qualification or demonstrable equivalent experience
• Continuing professional and personal development
• Senior management experience in a healthcare setting with responsibility for large teams and budgets
• Experience in development of processes to deliver efficiencies in a complex operation
• Experience in change management and research delivery at an operational level
• Understanding of clinical research staff requirements and healthcare research governance in practice
• Financial management experience within a healthcare/ research setting
• Knowledge of delivering large-scale externally funded research programmes
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to engage across executive levels and negotiate/coach as needed

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Negotiation and coaching abilities
• Strategic thinking and relationship building
• Knowledge of clinical research regulations (Medicines for Human Use, Clinical Trials Regulations) and UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research
• Experience with external funding processes and research governance
• Financial and budget management for research projects

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