REF Submission Manager — Strategy & Stakeholder Lead

Newcastle University; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 48,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holiday allowance

Pension schemes

Health and wellbeing initiatives

Job summary

Newcastle University is seeking a Research Excellence Framework (REF) Manager to co-ordinate the University’s submission to REF2029. This high‑profile role requires working with senior colleagues across the University to plan and manage the REF submission in line with Research England deadlines.

You will need a thorough understanding of the research process and the REF, with a proven track record in research management, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to use data to inform

Qualifications

• Thorough understanding of the research process and the REF.
• Proven track record in research management.
• Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build and maintain relationships.

Responsibilities

• Project manage the preparation of the University’s REF submission in accordance with Research England requirements and deadlines on behalf of the PVC Research & Innovation, Director of Research & Innovation and University REF Steering Group.
• Interpret and communicate national REF guidance and technical requirements, advise professional services departments, academic units and faculties on policy and procedural matters including identification of key issues to be determined by University REF Steering Group.
• Manage the business of University REF Steering Group, working closely with the Chair (PVC Research & Innovation), providing information and advice to support strategic decision‑making to optimise the University’s submission.
• Engage with faculties, academic units and professional service departments (in particular, Strategic Planning, Finance, Faculty Offices, People Services and the Library) to plan the University’s internal process and timetable for preparing each element of the REF submission.
• Provide advice and, where appropriate, practical support in relation to the narrative aspects of the submission including Impact Case Studies and Strategy, People and Research Environment (SPRE).
• Manage REF communications including provision of REF briefings to colleagues and the development, delivery and maintenance of a dedicated REF website and co-ordinate the wider communication of REF related information.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Data analysis

Stakeholder management

Education

Educated to degree level or equivalent

Job description

Newcastle University is seeking a Research Excellence Framework (REF) Manager to co-ordinate the University’s submission to REF2029. This high‑profile role requires working with senior colleagues across the University to plan and manage the REF submission in line with Research England deadlines.

You will need a thorough understanding of the research process and the REF, with a proven track record in research management, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to use data to inform