HEAD OF REF ENGAGEMENT
LOCATION: Bristol (Hybrid)
CONTRACT TYPE: Fixed Term (Ending 31 DEC 26)
HOURS: Full-Time or Part Time (0.6 FTE)
SALARY: £56,745 Per Annum
GRADE: UKRI Band F
CLOSING DATE: 29 JUN 25
ABOUT US
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions, with the most recent exercise concluding in 2021. It is a peer review assessment process involving submissions from higher education institutions across the UK. The REF is delivered by Research England on behalf of the four UK higher education funding bodies (Scottish Funding Council, Medr in Wales, and the Department of the Economy Northern Ireland).
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking a Head of Engagement who can work collaboratively over the next 18 months to develop and deliver a strategic comms and engagement approach for REF 2029. You will be focussed on coordinating and expanding the programme’s engagement with a wide variety of stakeholders across the UK’s research sector, including the sector press, academics, research managers, government officials, and beyond.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Engagement strategy and delivery. You will develop, lead and deliver REF’s overall comms and engagement strategy, which supports the values and ambitions of the exercise and the requirements of funding bodies. This will involve exploring and establishing novel mechanisms to engage with key stakeholders, and the handling of complex press queries.
Managing engagement partnerships. You will foster proactive collaborative working between the comms and engagement teams of the Funding Bodies and UKRI, and between REF 2029 teams. You will develop relationships and craft strategic engagement approaches with sector bodies (such as disciplinary associations and national academies) and REF panel chairs.
Stakeholder management and supporting senior engagement. You will act as a representative for REF 2029 both internally and externally and will work to grow new networks and communities of stakeholders. You will regulate relationships with key internal and external stakeholders to ensure they understand the programme’s vision, strategy, and impact.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
Proven ability of leading in an engagement or communications role in a complex environment
Demonstrable strategic vision to own and advance a coordinated and coherent engagement strategy
Proven track record of successfully implementing stakeholder engagement approaches
Experience working across multiple teams, integrating diverse viewpoints, and establishing mechanisms for information sharing
Proficiency in preparing and delivering strategic briefings and advice to senior leaders and crafting high-level communications
Experience of balancing competing priorities and working to deadlines in a fast-paced and changing policy context
INCENTIVES
DEVELOPING TALENT:
We are committed to developing employees in their roles throughout their career. Learning and development plans enable employees to continue their professional development through training and development opportunities such as e-learning, classroom training and on-the-job experiences. We encourage our employees to share their learning across teams and organisations.
BENEFITS:
UKRI can offer the successful candidate:
– Flexible Working
– 30 days annual leave + Public Holidays
– Access to Civil Service Pension Scheme
– Various everyday discounts through our dedicated provider
Visit our dedicated benefits webpage for more info: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
APPLICATION URL:
https://applytrack.onefixmedia.co.uk/4e3130303030304a3369736e