REF Manager - University of Cambridge, Research Office

ZipRecruiter; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic REF Manager to lead the University’s REF 2029 preparations. This pivotal role requires collaboration with senior leadership and academics to ensure a successful submission. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership and project management skills, along with a deep understanding of the Higher Education sector. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a research-intensive environment, where your contributions will shape the future of the University. Join a forward-thinking institution that values innovation and teamwork.

Benefits

41 days annual leave

Flexible/hybrid working

Generous pension scheme

Discount portal

Cycle to work scheme

Access to university accommodation

Relocation expenses reimbursement

Employee assistance programme

Family-friendly policies

Qualifications

• In-depth understanding of the Higher Education sector.
• Experience in managing senior academic and professional relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead the University’s REF submission and develop strategic approaches.
• Manage a team and ensure effective communication across the University.

Skills

Leadership in Higher Education

Stakeholder Engagement

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Degree Level Education

Job description

Job Description

The University of Cambridge is seeking an experienced and dynamic REF Manager to play a pivotal role in leading the University’s preparations for the REF 2029 submission. This key position will work in close partnership with the Director of Research Services and senior leadership to oversee both the operational and technical aspects of the submission process. Building on the successes of REF 2021, the REF Manager will collaborate with academics, senior leaders, and professional services colleagues to ensure an outstanding outcome for the University.

REF Manager: Key responsibilities

Leadership of University’s REF Submission

• Provide professional leadership for the University REF submission, working closely with senior leadership to develop the strategic approach
• Provide strategic advice and expert practitioner guidance on all aspects of the institutional REF submission to the Senior Leadership team and REF leads
• Analyse and interpret external guidance to develop a detailed understanding of the REF2029 criteria

Team Leadership and Management

• Establish a collaborative central REF function, promoting teamwork and effective communication across the University
• Manage a small team, ensuring appropriate workload distribution and overseeing performance management
• Maintain strategic oversight of all REF2029 components, identifying and resolving issues early

Stakeholder Engagement

• Inform, influence, and collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure institution-wide engagement in the REF submission
• Build and nurture relationships with School and Department staff to understand their needs and challenges in preparation for the exercise

REF Manager: Skills/experience

• In-depth understanding of the Higher Education sector and the challenges it faces
• Experience working in large, complex organisations with a focus on high-quality service and stakeholder engagement
• Experience within a research-intensive university, working across all staff levels and managing senior academic and professional relationships
• Demonstrated experience in leading and delivering large-scale strategic programmes or frameworks
• Proficient project management capabilities
• Ability to apply creativity and original thinking to develop innovative approaches to programmes and initiatives
• Clear and effective communication skills—both written and verbal—with the ability to engage and influence a wide range of stakeholders
• Experience of managing budgets and allocating resources
• Educated to at least degree level.

A generous benefits package is offered including:

41 days annual leave (inc. bank holidays), flexible/hybrid working, a generous pension scheme, discount portal, cycle to work scheme, access to the university accommodation service, scheme for the reimbursement of relocation expenses, employee assistance programme, family-friendly policies along with many more.

This is a retained assignment by Telfer Partners.

The University welcomes applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

The University actively supports equality, and and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Early applications are and by Tuesday the 27th of May 2025 at the very latest.

Successful candidates will be invited to attend an interview in Cambridge week commencing the 9th of June 2025.

For an initial, confidential discussion about this opportunity and the interview process or to request Further Particulars please contact Neil Telfer on [phone] or [e-mail] .

Referral Scheme - Telfer Partners offer a referral reward if we fill this vacancy with someone you recommend. You can send us contact details of anyone you would like to recommend to [e-mail].

Equality Policy - Telfer Partners is committed to upholding a professional and impartial recruitment process. Our Equal Opportunities policy ensures that all job applicants and employees are treated fairly and equally, regardless of their , , marital status, , , , age, , or union membership status.