Head of Research

Michael Page (UK); Remote; GBP 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing health charity is seeking a Head of Research to lead and deliver a robust research strategy. This remote position requires experience in developing strategies, managing research programmes, and engaging key stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in research governance and team leadership. The role offers a competitive salary between £50,000 and £55,000, alongside opportunities for professional growth in an inclusive work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Remote working

Opportunities for growth and development

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience of developing and delivering organisational strategies.
• Significant experience in managing research programmes and grant funding.
• Strong understanding of research governance and ethics.

Responsibilities

• Lead the charity's research strategy in alignment with its five-year plan.
• Provide expert advice to the Senior Leadership Team.
• Oversee the full research funding portfolio and its impact.

Skills

Strategic development

Research programme management

Stakeholder engagement

Team leadership

Knowledge of the UK research landscape

Job description

• Shape and deliver this health charity's research and involvement ambitions
• Develop and deliver a bold new research strategy

About Our Client

Our client is a small but growing health charity.

Job Description

Head of Research

Remote working

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, delivery and evaluation of the charity's research strategy in line with the organisation's five-year strategy, working closely with the Director of Policy, Research and Involvement and the Chief Executive.
• Provide expert strategic advice to the Senior Leadership Team on research and involvement opportunities, risks and emerging developments.
• Lead and oversee the full research funding portfolio.
• Lead the development and continuous improvement of the research funding offer, ensuring schemes are competitive, impactful and aligned with organisational priorities.
• Monitor delivery, outputs and impact of funded research, ensuring effective grant management, learning and accountability.
• Monitor national and international research developments relevant to the charity's health area, identifying emerging trends and opportunities.
• Translate complex research activity and findings into clear, accessible updates for internal and external audiences.
• Act as a spokesperson on research matters where appropriate, supporting media engagement and public understanding.
• Champion involvement as a core organisational principle, ensuring lived experience shapes the strategy, delivery and decision‑making at all levels.
• Lead the development, implementation and evaluation of systems, processes and standards that support high‑quality involvement activity.
• Build and sustain strategic relationships with UK and international research centres, study sites and academic institutions.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with pharmaceutical and life sciences organisations, positioning the charity as a credible and trusted research partner.
• Facilitate connections between researchers, study sites and industry partners to support high‑quality research and collaboration.
• Lead, support and develop a high‑performing Research and Involvement team, fostering a culture of collaboration, learning and continuous improvement.
• Provide clear leadership, objectives and performance management for direct reports, supporting wellbeing and professional development.
• Lead the development of robust impact reporting for research and involvement activity, tailored for the Board, funders, partners and the wider public.

The Successful Applicant

Head of Research

Remote working

Essential

• Proven experience of developing and delivering organisational or departmental strategies.
• Significant experience leading or managing research programmes, including grant funding schemes.
• Strong knowledge of research governance, ethics and best practice.
• Experience engaging senior external stakeholders within research, healthcare, academic or industry environments.
• Knowledge of the UK research landscape and the role of the voluntary sector.
• Experience leading and developing teams, with a track record of building high‑performing staff.
• Demonstrable commitment to ensuring lived experience and patient voice shape research and organisational practice.
• Strong understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion, including barriers faced by under‑represented groups.

What's on Offer

• Remote working.
• Competitive salary ranging from £50,000 to £55,000.
• Permanent position with opportunities for growth and development.
• Supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the health research and charity landscape.

If you meet the criteria and are excited about the opportunity to lead as a Head of Research, we encourage you to apply.