Head of Research Excellence

TieTalent; Bristol; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent university in Bristol is seeking a Head of Research Excellence to guide the REF submission strategies for 2029. The successful candidate will have extensive experience in the Higher Education sector, particularly with REF processes, and showcase strategic planning and communication skills. This role involves collaboration with research leaders, requiring proven expertise in stakeholder engagement and a proactive approach to academic excellence.

Benefits

Competitive pay rates

Generous annual leave

Career-average pension scheme

Opportunities for training and personal development

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in REF preparation and submission.
• Ability to influence external stakeholders across the Higher Education sector.
• Detailed sector knowledge and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation for the Research Excellence Framework submission.
• Collaborate with research leaders and senior management.
• Serve as the key link with Research England for REF assessments.

Skills

Communication skills

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

REF knowledge

Education

Experience in Higher Education sector

Involvement in REF submissions

Job description

About

Research and External Engagement (REE) is a new integrated service dedicated to advancing the University's ambitions in research, innovation, skills, and enterprise.

This professional service supports students, promotes research excellence, upskills and reskills the regional workforce, and strengthens relationships with alumni, business, and community partners.

Through innovative research initiatives, practical learning opportunities, strategic partnerships, civic leadership, and skills delivery, REE empowers individuals to thrive in an ever-changing world.

To learn more about REE and their work, click here.

The Head of Research Excellence will lead the preparation and coordination of the university's submission to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) in 2028 and subsequent submissions. Working closely with the PVC for Research and Knowledge Exchange, research leaders, and the Director of Research and External Engagement, they will provide strategic support and insights for the REF 2029 submission.

The successful candidate will possess extensive knowledge and expertise on HEI sector REF requirements, with significant involvement in past REF submissions. They will be a highly skilled communicator and planner, proactive, dynamic, and comfortable liaising at all levels within the university. They will serve as the key link with Research England for REF and have proven experience in supporting REF assessments.

About You

We seek an individual with extensive experience in REF preparation and submission. You will liaise with and influence external stakeholders and special interest groups across the Higher Education sector, including Research England, to position the university optimally during the REF process.

You will work with research leaders, senior management, and your team, demonstrating detailed sector knowledge and best practices related to this remit.

Collaboration across REE and the university community will be essential to develop a comprehensive approach to the REF, including case studies and submission strategies.

Location

This role is based at our vibrant Frenchay campus, equipped with the latest facilities and resources to support staff and students.

Why UWE Bristol?

We are one of the largest Higher Education providers in the South West, with 38,000 students and 4,000 staff from around the world. Located in Bristol, a dynamic and forward-thinking city, we are regionally embedded and globally connected through our extensive network of employer and academic partners.

Our employee benefits include competitive pay rates, generous annual leave, a career-average pension scheme, retail savings, onsite nursery, and opportunities for training and personal development.

UWE Bristol values a diverse university community and is proud to be part of a vibrant, multicultural city that celebrates diversity. We are actively seeking talented individuals from all backgrounds to join us. Our staff are our strength, and diversity enhances our creativity and decision-making.

We especially encourage applications from the global majority and male candidates, as they are currently underrepresented in this area of the organization. All appointments are based on merit.

As a Disability Confident employer, we welcome applications from individuals with disabilities.

Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom

Language: English