Location
: London- Flexible/Hybrid
Contract Type:
Full-time, Permanent
Reporting to:
Director of Research & Innovation
Salary:
£64,331 to £71,834
About the Role:
A prestigious educational organisation is seeking a dedicated and collaborative Head of REF to lead its preparation and submission for the next Research Excellence Framework (REF). This role sits within a high-performing and fast-paced research services team and reports directly to the Director of Research & Innovation.
The Head of REF will drive institutional strategy and compliance, manage key workstreams, and build strong relationships across faculties, departments, and wide networks.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and coordinate the university's REF submission process
* Manage multiple REF-related workstreams (e.g. code of practice, policy interpretation)
* Build and maintain relationships with key academic and professional stakeholders
* Translate REF policy and sector guidance into institutional strategy
* Analyse and optimise complex research data for institutional benefit
* Engage with peer REF managers across the sector to share insights and best practices
* Contribute to the long-term research strategy and post-REF landscape
You will have:
* Demonstrable success in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects
* Strong understanding of the UK research and policy environment
* Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, particularly at senior levels
* Experience interpreting research policy and driving compliance
* Confidence working autonomously and proactively across institutional structures
* A solution-focused mindset with high attention to detail
* Proven experience leading large‑scale, multi‑year projects, ideally in research or higher education settings
* Strong grasp of REF policy and ability to translate evolving guidance into practical, actionable plans
* Outstanding attention to detail, able to deliver high‑quality outputs under pressure
* Comfortable working in fluid, changing policy environments and building flexibility into planning
* Demonstrable track record contributing to income generation, research impact delivery, or improved institutional performance
Desirable:
* Prior involvement in REF preparation or submission
* Background in education, research institutes, or relevant public sector bodies
* Familiarity with systems such as Work Tribe, Elements, Power BI, or similar
If you are a strategic and collaborative professional, ideally with prior REF experience or a background in managing complex research-related programs then please apply