Head of Research, Knowledge Exchange & Innovation Service

Full-time: 35 hours per week 

Fixed-term: 21 months (March 2026)

The Opportunity

The job is full-time (35 hours per week) and fixed term until the end of March 2026 however we are open to considering flexible working patterns and hybrid working that combines a mix of remote (within the UK) and regular weekly on-campus working.  Secondments can be considered for any internal candidates.  

This is a key professional service leadership and management role in a unique and dynamic environment that brings together the academic rigor of an ancient and world-leading university with the creative and innovative excellence of one of the longest-established art schools in the UK. You will have experience in research management to drive the operational delivery and strategic development of the School’s Research, Knowledge Exchange, and Innovation (RKEI) activities including the Research Excellence Framework (REF) submission.  You will provide essential strategic project and change management leadership, direct responsibility for the RKEI Service and setting service standards ensuring alignment with ECA and University strategic priorities.  

Your skills and attributes for success:

• Extensive knowledge of research, knowledge exchange and impact administration and funding policies in the HE context, and the ability to interpret and advise on complex regulations and funder requirements.  
• Sound understanding of the financial dimensions of research and KEI support and administration work. 
• Professionally qualified / relevant degree, plus hands-on experience in similar or related roles or substantial vocation experience, in progressively more demanding roles, including experience as a manager leading one or more teams.
• Leadership experience working with and influencing senior management and direct and indirect reports. 
• Demonstrable ability to gather, analyse and present complex information in a straightforward way, and to use this to analyse and solve problems with an appreciation of longer-term implications

Our ideal candidate will have excellent management experience in a values-led organisation and will be committed to working in a supportive and open environment with a good understanding of equality and diversity in the workplace and ability to work as a role model for inclusion and respect.

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