Head of Strategy, Research Engagement and Inclusion

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional healthcare organization is seeking a Head of Strategy, Research Engagement and Inclusion to foster productive relationships with stakeholders. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent communication, innovation, and strategic thinking to boost participation in research and drive inclusivity. This position offers flexibility in location across the South West UK. Competitive benefits include extensive leave, development funding, and a focus on work-life balance.

Benefits

27 days of paid annual leave

Flexible working schemes

NHS pension

Cycle-to-work scheme

Qualifications

• Proven track record in stakeholder engagement and strategic planning.
• Ability to work collaboratively to enhance diversity and inclusivity.
• Experience in a health and care environment is preferable.

Responsibilities

• Engage and maintain relationships with stakeholders.
• Support innovation and improvement within the health and care region.
• Motivate teams to support the agenda of inclusivity.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Facilitation skills

Engagement skills

Strategic thinking

Innovative approach

Job description

Head of Strategy, Research Engagement and Inclusion

For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities, please click the link below.

Role Overview: You will be engaging, developing, and maintaining productive, high-quality relationships with stakeholders across the region. The role requires excellent communication, facilitation, and engagement skills, with the ability to think strategically and innovatively to broaden participation in research, enhance research delivery, and support effective partnership working.

This is an opportunity to be part of an ambitious, collaborative health and care region and RRDN, committed to improving diversity and inclusivity across workstreams. Time will be invested in creating supportive relationships, working collectively to support innovation and improvement, and motivating teams. If you are passionate, energetic, and keen to support this important agenda, please get in touch.

Location and Working Pattern: The role can be based in Truro, Plymouth, Exeter, or Taunton, with regular travel to local and regional sites. Working pattern: 37.5 hours.

Interview Date: Tuesday, 16th September 2025.

Contact for Further Information: Emily Simpson, Executive and Specialist Lead, at 07958 931414 or [e-mail].

Equal Opportunities: As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. Applications are encouraged from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. Preference will be given to staff with Priority and 'At Risk' status, including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

Note: The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close the vacancy when sufficient applications are received.

About the Trust: Established in April 2022, the Trust brings together the expertise of the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

Benefits: We support your development with funding for certifications, days off for study, CPD, or rotational placements. We promote work-life balance through flexible working schemes and family-friendly policies. Starting with 27 days of paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing to 33 days. Access to occupational health services, wellbeing activities, staff discounts, salary sacrifice schemes, NHS pension, cycle-to-work scheme, and more.

If you're interested in this role, we'd love to hear from you.