Head of Research Programmes Analysis, Development and Management
ID 3438
The Welsh Government operates name‑free recruitment. The recruiting panel will not see personal information such as a candidate’s name and address during the sifting process. This policy is in line with our commitment to end bias and promote equality and diversity.
Purpose of post
The Welsh Government Office for Science, led by the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that government programmes, policies and decisions are informed by robust scientific evidence and strategic foresight.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead on the design, analysis and delivery of strategic research and innovation programmes. This is a unique opportunity to work at the interface of science, policy and public impact.
What you’ll be doing
* Lead strategic partnerships with key research funders such as Medr (Commission for Tertiary Education and Research) and other national and international RD&I bodies.
* Advise on funding mechanisms, delivery structures and research translation, ensuring that science and technology investments deliver real‑world benefits.
* Conduct performance analysis of Welsh Government, UKRI and European Commission‑funded programmes to identify what works, what doesn’t, and how future programmes can be improved.
* Provide expert advice to the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales on science and technology policy, evidence generation and programme impact.
* Shape how Wales invests in science and innovation, ensuring maximum return on investment and long‑term strategic value.
Key responsibilities
* Strategic Programme Leadership
Lead the development and delivery of high‑impact programmes, including the potential launch of a Technology Transfer Office in Spending Review 2026/27.
* Scientific Analysis & Reporting
Analyse complex scientific and technical datasets and produce clear, timely insights to inform strategic decisions; prepare technical reports and Ministerial briefings.
* Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
Drive engagement across the health and life sciences sectors, work closely with Welsh Government colleagues and external partners, and lead on marketing, publicity and events.
* Policy & Advisory Support
Provide expert advice to the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales, Ministers and senior officials on research strategy, funding mechanisms and performance outcomes; conduct horizon scanning for emerging opportunities and risks.
* Lead the analysis, development and delivery of Welsh science and technology initiatives, ensuring value for money and measurable success.
Key tasks
* Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including UKRI, research charities and industry partners.
* Advise on administrative and policy matters affecting external research organisations and funders.
* Influence UK Government and UKRI strategies to ensure Welsh priorities are reflected and supported.
* Support the CSA in promoting scientific excellence, attracting investment and maximising societal and economic benefits from RD&I.
* Maintain active links with the academic sector and contribute to strategic discussions on science and innovation.
* Analyse large volumes of research portfolio data and present findings to senior colleagues in a clear, concise format.
* Lead on data gathering, communications and event planning related to your programme areas.
* Draft high‑quality technical reports and Ministerial papers.
* Undertake any additional duties as required by the CSA or Head of Science.
Other vacancy related information
The Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales is based in Cathays Park, Cardiff. The successful candidate will be expected to travel within Wales and elsewhere to visit stakeholders, and will travel to Cardiff CP2 frequently for team meetings and workshops.
An in‑tray exercise on Technical 1 will be required at interview. More information will be provided at that stage. Interviews will be held in person at our Cathays Park office in Cardiff.
A reserve list may be held for this opportunity. Any candidate who is successful in being offered reserve status will remain on the reserve list for 12 months.
In case of a large number of applications, an initial sift will be conducted against the assessment criteria: Experience 2 & Technical 2. Candidates who pass the initial sift may be progressed to a full sift or straight to assessment/interview.
Selection process and stages:
• Stage 1 – Application Form
• Stage 2 – Interview
Eligibility – Nationality requirements
* UK nationals
* Nationals of the Republic of Ireland
* Nationals of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK
* Nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members with settled or pre‑settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
* Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
* Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Contact for further information
Contact: sciencegovbus@gov.wales
How to apply
All applications must be made using our online application system. Welsh Government cannot offer Visa sponsorship for this role. Applications are welcomed from people with a diverse range of lived and professional experiences. We are actively committed to becoming an increasingly diverse organisation.
If you have an impairment which prevents you from applying online, request an application pack in an alternative format or a recruitment adjustment to help you submit your application.
Use the 'Apply' button to submit your application. You will be asked to register if you don’t have an account or sign in if you do. Check your spam/junk folder for any correspondence regarding your application.
All applications must be completed and submitted before the deadline on the closing date. We will not consider an incomplete application.
If you would like to apply in Welsh, use the 'Change Language' link on this page.
For information on Civil Service Success Profiles, please click here.
For TS to G6 recruitment schemes: When presenting your evidence, consider the expectations of the grade as set out in the Grade Description and the main responsibilities that are essential for the role.
#J-18808-Ljbffr