Research Planning and Operations Manager - Research Strategy and Services - 107045 - Grade 8
On-site · Birmingham, England, United Kingdom
Job Summary
Senior-level Research Planning & Operations Manager to lead REF planning, data quality, and operational processes within RSSD. Drive the institutional REF2029 submission, develop and manage detailed project plans, timetables and risk registers, coordinate data collection and validation, and provide central operational support to Colleges, Schools and Institutes. Build strong relationships across RSSD, College-based research teams and Professional Services; produce high-quality briefings, papers and reports for senior committees; ensure data quality, audit readiness and compliance; spearhead efficiency and change initiatives to deliver timely, compliant planning activities.
Required Qualifications
- Significant experience delivering complex, time-critical operational processes within a research-intensive or similarly complex organisation
- Strong working knowledge of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) or equivalent large-scale assessment, planning or compliance exercises
- Proven ability to manage multiple workstreams, competing priorities and tight deadlines with high accuracy and attention to detail
- Experience coordinating stakeholders across organisational boundaries, including academic and professional services colleagues
- Strong analytical and organisational skills with the ability to work with data, plans, and detailed documentation
- Excellent communication skills for producing clear guidance and high-quality papers for senior audiences
- Ability to operate with initiative, judgement and professionalism in a sensitive, high-profile environment
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