REF Programme Lead – Executive Professional Services

Royal College of Art; Guelph; Hybrid; CAD 122,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The Royal College of Art is seeking an Executive Professional Services Lead for the REF, a senior, institution-wide role in London. You will shape and manage the RCA's REF submission, coordinating the Operations team, outputs and narrative development, and advising senior leaders on policy and governance.

You will build cross-institution relationships, drive planning and horizon scanning of national research policy, and ensure the RCA is well-prepared for evolving REF requirements within a

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in higher education leadership a must.
• Experience managing institution-wide programmes and REF-related work.
• Ability to translate policy guidance into practical action.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, coordination and delivery of RCA REF-related professional services.
• Establish governance, systems and processes across Schools, Centres and professional services.
• Provide expert REF policy advice, manage complex projects, and use data to inform decisions.
• Oversee REF Operations, data, outputs, case studies and institutional narratives.

Skills

Higher education programme management

Stakeholder management

Data analysis

Strategic leadership

REF policy knowledge

Education

Degree in a relevant field

Project management qualification (PRINCE2/APM)

Job description

The Royal College of Art is seeking an Executive Professional Services Lead for the REF, a senior, institution-wide role in London. You will shape and manage the RCA's REF submission, coordinating the Operations team, outputs and narrative development, and advising senior leaders on policy and governance.

You will build cross-institution relationships, drive planning and horizon scanning of national research policy, and ensure the RCA is well-prepared for evolving REF requirements within a