Operations Lead
Organisation: UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
Location: Swindon, Wiltshire (Hybrid working available)
Salary: £36,650 per annum
Band: UKRI D
Team: UKRI Talent and Skills
Contract Type: Fixed Term (until 31 March 2027)
Hours: Full-time or Part-time (minimum 0.6 FTE)
Closing Date: Monday 29 September 2025
About the Role
We are recruiting for an Operations Lead within the Interdisciplinary Responsive Mode Team (UKRI Talent and Skills). The role will support the delivery of the UKRI cross research council responsive mode (CRCRM) scheme pilot, designed to encourage interdisciplinary ideas outside traditional boundaries and existing responsive mode schemes.
You will lead operational processes for funding opportunities, assessment, award management, and the training of the Interdisciplinary Assessment College. The role includes managing Funding Officers and Administrators, with direct line management of at least one team member.
Responsibilities
- Lead operational delivery of the CRCRM pilot, ensuring effective management of funding opportunities and awards.
- Oversee delivery and resourcing across the team, implementing training and supporting staff development.
- Promote consistency and quality in funding decision-making and operational improvements.
- Analyse and report on scheme progress and evaluation.
- Manage stakeholder relationships across UKRI, Research Councils, and external partners.
- Support the Interdisciplinary Assessment College, including training events, briefings, and membership oversight.
- Maintain communication with the community, including guidance documents, website content, and external queries.
- Prepare reports and papers for cross-Council and governance board meetings.
- Line manage staff and contribute to wider Talent and Skills projects.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Degree-level education or equivalent experience.
- Experience in research and/or innovation with an understanding of peer review.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organisational and data management skills.
- Analytical and problem-solving ability, with good judgment in evolving contexts.
- Commitment to advancing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
Desirable:
- Training in people or project management.
- Experience in project delivery, staff supervision, and external representation.
- Experience providing training to colleagues.
- Competence in Excel (pivot tables, vlookups).
Application Process
Applications will be assessed against the listed criteria using the UKRI competency framework. Please demonstrate your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in your cover letter and CV.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, which includes a short test and a panel discussion. Reasonable adjustments are available upon request.
Apply via the UKRI careers portal.
For application issues, contact Recruitment@ukri.org.
Benefits
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 30 days annual leave + 10.5 public/privilege days (pro rata).
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Employee discounts and assistance programme.
- Continuous learning and development culture.
UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer.
Visa sponsorship is available for eligible candidates.
