Job Title: Research & Innovation Specialist
Our Vision: A better world with people with disabilities are valued and contribute to dynamic and inclusive communities.
Our Mission: To support, empower and enable people we support to live their lives to the full.
Reporting to: Community Engagement Development Manager
Purpose:
The Research and Innovation specialist will play a pivotal role in delivering our ambitions for sustainable growth through income diversification, as funded by the Boost Fund (Postcode Innovation Trust). This new role will lead the development, testing and refinement of business cases focused on three core areas:
- Hire of our accessible city-centre training suite
- Sale of sector-leading training packages to external partners
- Inclusion consultancy for organisations and workplaces
Working closely with the Community Team shaping future projects, securing funding and expanding Options’ impact on disability inclusion.
Key Responsibilities
· Conduct research into market trends, income opportunities and best practices in inclusive training, consultancy and venue hire.
· Develop and test viable business cases and proposals to support new initiatives and revenue-generating activities.
· Work closely with leadership to implement strategic plans and assess feasibility for new programs.
· Identify target audiences and pricing strategies and support the piloting of income generating activities.
· Monitor and evaluate the impact of new initiatives, ensuring alignment with long-term goals. · Support funding applications and reporting, including the development of evidence-based justifications for investment through grant funding, tender opportunities and innovation funding streams.
· Represent Options in external meetings and networking events to promote our training and consultancy offer.
Person Specification
Essential:
· Experience in research, business development and service innovation – ideally within the disability support, social care, or non-profit sector.
· Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and translate insights into actionable strategies.
· Proven ability in developing business cases, funding proposals, and impact assessments.
· Excellent communication skills, including report writing and presenting findings to a range of audiences.
· Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic values-led environment.
· A commitment to inclusion, access and rights-based approaches.
Desirable:
· Knowledge of disability rights, inclusion strategies, or related policy frameworks.
· Familiarity with social enterprise, earned income models, or social impact evaluation.
Timeframe & Commitment
· Initial Contract: 12 months (with potential for extension based on funding and impact).
· Start Date: August 2025
· Salary £27,000 - £30,000 per annum
· Full-time (hybrid working supported)
· Location: Liverpool city centre
Closing Date for Applications: 25th June 2025
Interview Date: 3rd July 2025