We support flexible working and will consider requests taking into account the needs of the service. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro rata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.

Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 30% lower than London and 17 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.

Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities

You will report to the Deputy Director of R&D and lead the R&D Central Office team, providing strong leadership, direction, and development opportunities. You will work closely with clinical leaders, research teams, and senior stakeholders locally, regionally, and nationally, playing a key role in shaping shared priorities and driving system-wide improvement.

You will lead the strategic and operational delivery of R&D across UHS and CRDC Wessex, driving high-quality, consistent research governance and performance across multiple organisations.

You will shape and deliver innovative approaches to multi-site study set-up and delivery, improving timelines and supporting achievement of the 150-day ambition across the region.

You will act as a senior leader across the system, working with NIHR, DHSC, academic partners and clinical teams to align priorities, influence national programmes, and strengthen research delivery.

You’ll demonstrate strong leadership and influencing skills, with the ability to work across organisational boundaries and lead change at a regional or system level.

You’ll have in-depth knowledge of national research policy, regulatory frameworks (including Good Clinical Practice), and the wider NHS research landscape.

You’ll be confident managing complex budgets and analysing performance data to inform strategic and operational decision-making.

Person specification

Qualifications, Knowledge And Experience

Essential criteria

• Specialist, professional knowledge of clinical research management acquired through a degree or equivalent experience.
• Master level qualification or equivalent experience in related field.
• Management experience to diploma level or equivalent experience.
• Experience of clinical or NHS research management to include experience in the approval and set up and conduct of clinical research studies.
• Up to date knowledge of current and planned national systems and structures for the set-up, management and oversight of clinical research in the NHS.
• Detailed knowledge and understanding of key national R&D policies and strategies.
• Financial management and experience.
• Ability to analyse and interpret complex research management information.
• Flexible approach to working and a desire to develop knowledge.
• Knowledge of the governance and legislative framework for conducting clinical research studies, including Good Clinical Practice.
• Highly motivated, with the ability to influence and inspire others.
• Ability to communicate complex information orally and in writing to a range of audiences.
• Proven interpersonal skills to work with a wide range of clinical and management colleagues.
• Experience of writing and implementing policies and procedures.

Desirable criteria

• Management qualification.
• Experience of the practical application of EU legislation and guidance relating to research.

Trust Values

Essential criteria

• Patients First.
• Always Improving.
• Working Together.