Assistant Director - Strategic Industry Partnerships (London)

Are you passionate about bridging the gap between life science innovation and government collaboration? Do you thrive on shaping strategic partnerships that drive groundbreaking clinical research? Join the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) as a key member of our External Affairs team. We are seeking a dynamic, highly experienced professional to lead the development and delivery of strategic partnerships with leading life science companies, propelling the UK’s position as a global hub for cutting-edge clinical research

About Us

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR – ) is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care to advance the health and wealth of the nation through pioneering research. As the UK’s largest funder of health and social care research, NIHR collaborates closely with the NHS, universities, local governments, other research funders, patients, and the public.

Job Description

As part of the External Affairs team you will focus on building strong relationships with companies, working as part of a cross-Government approach to building enduring partnerships with the life sciences industry. You will work closely with the NIHR Director of External Affairs & Strategic Partnerships to support and coordinate the NIHR’s involvement in the cross-Government approach to developing and managing strategic partnerships with a number of high value life science companies.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the main contact within NIHR for strategic partner companies, managing planning, monitoring, and reviewing efforts to achieve partnership goals.
• Brief senior NIHR and DHSC staff on partnership activities, ensuring they are well-prepared for high-level meetings.
• Coordinate prompt, accurate responses to inquiries from strategic partners, engaging the right experts across NIHR and UK government.
• Collaborate with NIHR Business Development and Key Account Managers, promoting NIHR services to strategic partners.
• Partner with the Head of the Vaccine Innovation Pathway PMO to keep partners informed about improvements in UK vaccine clinical trials, especially in infectious diseases and cancer.
• Facilitate seamless collaboration with other government bodies, including the Office for Life Sciences, Department for International Trade, UK Health Security Agency, and MHRA, to enhance strategic partnership delivery.

Candidate specification

To be successful in this role you will have broad experience of working with, or within the life sciences industry, particularly in roles liaising between companies and Government agencies. You will need to demonstrate a detailed understanding of the UK health research system and the role that NIHR plays in funding and delivering research that improves the health and wealth of the nation.

Expertise, Skills, and Knowledge

Required Criteria

• Educational Qualification:
• A bachelor’s degree in biomedical science or equivalent professional experience gained through relevant employment.
• Industry Experience:
• Proven experience working with the life sciences industry, including roles in business development, government affairs, or similar functions.
• Research Environment Experience:
• Demonstrated experience within the UK research sector, including positions at research funding organisations, government bodies, universities, NHS Trusts, or charities.
• Sector Knowledge:
• Comprehensive understanding of the UK’s health and care research landscape, including familiarity with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the processes for conducting clinical research within the NHS.
• Programme Management:
• Proven ability to manage, coordinate, and ensure the successful delivery of complex work programmes involving multiple partners and stakeholders.

Desired Criteria

• Advanced Educational Qualification:
• A postgraduate degree in a relevant discipline, such as biomedical science, healthcare management, or a closely related field.
• Specialised Experience:
• Proven experience working in a research funding organisation, policy body, or other relevant research-focused environments.

Key Competencies

• Proactive and Adaptable
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Organisational Skills
• Effective Communication
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities
• Proficient in using Google Apps and other standard IT tools

Salary & Benefits

• Annual Salary: £62,900+per year
• Bonus: Performance-based, subject to company results
• Annual Leave: 25 days, plus UK public holidays
• Pension Scheme: Enhanced contributory scheme
• Life Insurance: Comprehensive coverage
• Healthcare: Benenden Healthcare membership
• Commuting Support: Season Ticket Loan

This is a hybrid, office-based role requiring employees to work a minimum of one day each week at our central London office. Additionally, there may be a requirement to attend ad hoc meetings as needed.

Application Process

If you are excited about the prospect of joining our team and believe you possess the relevant skills and background, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV along with a \’Statement of Suitability\’ that showcases your key skills and experiences in relation to the \’Required Criteria\’ outlined in the job description. Additionally, share your enthusiasm for working with NIHR.

NB:Closing date for applications is 5pm 13th June, interviews to be scheduled from the 23rd June.

For more information or an informal discussion about the role please contact external.affairs@nihr.ac.uk