Vacancies: Head of Strategy, Research Engagement and Inclusion
Role Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic, and talented Senior Manager to join the new NIHR Regional Research Delivery Network (RRDN) in the South West Peninsula. This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead at regional and national levels.
About the Role
For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities, please click the link below.
More details about the role
You will be engaging, developing, and maintaining productive, high-quality relationships with various stakeholders across the region.
The role requires excellent communication, facilitation, and engagement skills, with the ability to think strategically and innovatively to broaden participation in research, enhance research delivery, and support effective partnership working.
This is an opportunity to be part of an ambitious, collaborative health and care region and RRDN, committed to improving diversity and inclusivity across our workstreams. Time will be invested in creating supportive relationships and working collectively to support innovation and improvement, as well as motivating and inspiring teams. If you are passionate, energetic, and eager to support this important agenda, please get in touch.
The role can be contractually based in Truro, Plymouth, Exeter, or Taunton, with regular travel to local and regional sites.
Working Pattern: 37.5 hours
Interview Date: Tuesday 16th September 2025
For further information, please contact: Emily Simpson, Executive and Specialist Lead, at 07958 931414 or emily.simpson21@nhs.net
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognize the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status, including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close the vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, combining the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.
About Us
Stretching across Northern, Eastern, and Mid Devon, we employ over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which serve more than 615,000 people, cover over 2,000 square miles across Devon. Some of our specialist services serve the entire peninsula, extending as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
We provide a wide range of emergency, specialist, and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we deliver integrated health and social care services across various settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people's homes. We also offer primary care services, specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).
Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies, and strong links to local universities position us at the forefront of research and innovation, enabling us to provide world-class care to our communities.
Our values are central to everything we do; click here to find out more.
It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help shape our services during our ongoing integration journey.
Looking after you is important to us.
We support our staff in creating a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and family-friendly policies.
If you are starting your NHS career, you will begin with 27 days of paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing to 33 days plus bank holidays.
You will have access to comprehensive occupational health services, including counseling, onsite wellbeing activities, and groups.
We are committed to developing and supporting you and your team.
This may include funding for a care certificate, a degree, or leadership qualifications, as well as days off for study, CPD, or rotational placements to enhance your skills. Wherever your NHS career takes you, we will support your growth.
Salary is not the only financial benefit
You will also have access to a wide range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness, and leisure, as well as options to spread the cost of technology and home appliances from major retailers. Additional benefits include:
* National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
* Salary sacrifice schemes, including our OFSTED-rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter.
* Car lease schemes.
* The NHS Pension scheme, one of the most comprehensive in the UK.
* Cycle to work scheme.
If this role interests you, we would love to hear from you.
Head of Strategy, Research Engagement and Inclusion
* Salary: Band 8b: £64,455 - £74,896 per annum pro rata
* Frequency: Annual
* Vacancy Reference: 185-41843-11251
* Contract Type: Permanent
* Closing Date: 31 August 2025
* Job Category: Administration
#J-18808-Ljbffr