Executive Professional Services Lead - Research Excellence Framework 2029

Royal College of Art; Greater London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Royal College of Art is seeking an Executive Professional Services Lead for the REF to steer strategy and programme delivery for the RCA’s REF submission. You will coordinate governance, data and evidence-based planning, working with senior leaders and the REF Strategy Group to ensure timely, high‑quality submissions.

You will lead the REF Operations team, translate policy guidance into practical actions, and build strong cross‑college relationships to shape RCA’s research narrative for

Job description

This is a significant institution-wide role, providing strategic leadership and programme management for the RCA's REF submission. Working closely with the PVC Research & Innovation, Executive Academic Lead and REF Strategy Group, you will lead the planning, coordination and delivery of the professional services activity required to ensure the RCA is fully prepared for REF.

You will bring together colleagues across Schools, Centres and professional services, establishing effective governance, systems, processes and ways of working to support a high-quality, evidence-based submission. You will provide expert advice on REF policy and guidance, lead complex projects, and use data and analysis to inform institutional decision-making.

A key focus of the role will be the effective management of the REF programme, including coordinating the REF Operations team, overseeing data and information, supporting output selection and impact case studies, contributing to institutional narratives, and ensuring the RCA is prepared to meet evolving REF requirements.

You will also lead horizon scanning of national research policy and REF developments, translating complex guidance into clear advice and practical action across the institution. The role will require you to build strong and trusted relationships with senior academic leaders and professional services colleagues, influence across organisational boundaries and represent the RCA in relevant external networks.

The Royal College of Art is seeking an experienced and highly capable professional services leader to take on the pivotal role of Executive Professional Services Lead for the Research Excellence Framework (REF)., We are looking for someone with significant senior-level experience within higher education, a strong track record of managing complex, institution-wide programmes and excellent strategic, analytical and stakeholder management skills. You will have a detailed understanding of the REF and the UK higher education research environment, together with the confidence and credibility to advise and influence at senior level.

A relevant degree and professional project management qualification, such as PRINCE2, APM or equivalent, are essential. Experience of previous REF submissions or similar national research assessment exercises would be highly desirable.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in shaping and delivering one of the RCA's most significant institutional programmes, working with senior leaders and colleagues across the College to ensure the strength and distinctiveness of RCA's research is effectively represented.

RCA Benefits available here: https://www.rca.ac.uk/more/work-at-the-rca/staff-benefits/

The Royal College of Art (RCA) aims to foster an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students and stakeholders are respected.

We recognise the broad range of experiences that a diverse staff and student body brings and how this strengthens our research and enhances our teaching. In order for RCA to remain a world-leading institution we are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout all of our processes, from application through to appointment.