Executive Professional Services Lead - Research Excellence Framework 2029 (1fte, FTC) - Internal Vacancy For Rca Employees Only

Royal College of Art; Greater London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Royal College of Art seeks an experienced leader to become Executive Professional Services Lead for the REF. You will provide strategic leadership and programme management for the RCA’s REF submission, working with senior academic and professional services leaders to plan, coordinate and deliver the professional services required for a robust, evidence-based submission.

You will build governance structures, manage data and information, support output selection and impact case studies, and

Qualifications

• Significant senior‑level experience in higher education.
• Proven track record of managing institution‑wide programmes.
• Degree and professional project management qualification (PRINCE2/APM) required or highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the REF programme, coordinating the REF Operations team.
• Oversee data, information and evidence management for REF submission.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder management

Programme management

REF policy knowledge

Data analysis

Education

Degree in a relevant discipline

PRINCE2 or APM qualification

Job description

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).

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.

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.

Closing for applications at 11.59pm on 18th October 2026