Research Manager in Dartford

Research Manager in Dartford

Dartford Full-Time 40000 - 45000 £ / year (est.) Home office possible
Cancer Research UK

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team to deliver impactful research supporting supporter engagement and retention.
  • Company: Join Cancer Research UK, a leading charity dedicated to beating cancer.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous benefits, and personal development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the fight against cancer while developing your career.
  • Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience with CRM systems required.
  • Other info: Flexible working environment with a focus on wellbeing and inclusivity.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.

Overview

£40,000-£45,000 plus benefits

Reports to: Senior Opportunity Development Manager

Directorate: Marketing, Fundraising & Engagement

Contract: 12 month fixed-term contract

Hours: Full time 35 hours per week

Location: Home-based

Closing date: 05th April 2026 23:55

This vacancy may close earlier if a high volume of applications is received or once a suitable candidate is found, therefore we strongly recommend that you apply early to avoid disappointment.

Please let us know if there is anything about the recruitment process that you would like to discuss, in particular if there are any changes or adjustments that would make it easier for you to apply. Please contact recruitment@cancer.org.uk or 020 3469 8400 as soon as possible.

Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship.

Recruitment process: Competency based interview

Interview date: 16th April

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. We’re looking for a motivated Research Manager to lead research excellence across identification, conversion, and retention workstreams to maximise supporter value through the Relationship Management pipeline model. This role will drive intelligence gathering that enables Cancer Research UK to identify, cultivate, and retain high-value supporters through prospect research, data-driven insights, and collaborative practices within the centralised Relationship Management pipeline model.

Responsibilities

  • Lead a team of researchers to deliver high-quality intelligence supporting all three workstreams of the RM pipeline model (identification, conversion, retention).
  • Collaborate closely with the Senior Opportunity Development Manager to design and implement research approaches that directly support pipeline optimisation, prioritising efforts based on data-led analysis and potential supporter value.
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive management information systems across all RM audience groups, providing intelligence that informs strategic decision-making within the centralised pipeline management approach.
  • Oversee the delivery of detailed supporter profiles and research insights that enable personalised interventions at key decision moments across the supporter journey.
  • Maintain a comprehensive overview of market trends and competitor analysis to inform strategic planning and identify new opportunities for supporter engagement across all pipeline stages.
  • Communicate and present research findings in a compelling manner to colleagues, leadership, and the wider RM function to drive evidence-based decision making.
  • Work collaboratively within the matrixed structure, partnering with Governance and Stewardship Managers to increase knowledge sharing and optimise the supporter journey.
  • Lead on developing pipeline monitoring and reporting systems to track performance across identification, conversion, and retention stages, supporting continuous improvement.
  • Guide the implementation of research approaches that directly contribute to tactical, data-led personalised interventions to maximise pipeline value.

What are we looking for?

  • Comprehensive understanding of relationship management pipelines and the role of research in supporting the optimisation of supporter journeys.
  • Advanced analytical skills and ability to translate complex data into actionable recommendations that support personalised supporter engagement.
  • Proficient in the use of CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce), data visualisation tools, and research databases to extract and present meaningful insights.
  • Excellent organisational and people management skills – able to lead a team while operating effectively within the matrixed workstream structure.
  • Innovative approach to research with ability to identify opportunities for process improvements across the supporter journey.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
  • Experience with data protection regulations and their application throughout the research process.

Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do.

  • Bold: Act with ambition, courage and determination
  • Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism
  • Human: Act to have a positive impact on people
  • Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively

We’re looking for people who can believe in and embody these organisation values and can use them to drive forward progress against our mission to beat cancer.

If you’re interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience we’d still love to hear from you.

What will I gain?

We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals. You can explore our benefits by visiting our careers web page.

How do I apply?

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won’t be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively.

For more information on this career opportunity please visit our website or contact us at recruitment@cancer.org.uk.

For more updates on our work and careers, follow us on: Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Our vision is to create a charity where everyone feels like they belong, benefits from and participates in, the work we do. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented.

We want to see every candidate performing at their best throughout the job application process, interview process and whilst at work. We therefore ask you to inform us of any concerns you have or any adjustments you might need to enable this to happen. Please contact recruitment@cancer.org.uk or 020 3469 8400 as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, we are unable to recruit anyone below the age of 18, so that we can protect young people from health & safety and safeguarding risks.

Research Manager in Dartford employer: Cancer Research UK

At Cancer Research UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions a supportive and inclusive work culture. As a Research Manager, you will benefit from a generous benefits package, extensive career development opportunities, and the flexibility of a home-based role, all while contributing to our vital mission of beating cancer. Join us in a collaborative environment where your innovative ideas and analytical skills will directly impact the lives of many, making your work both meaningful and rewarding.
Cancer Research UK

Contact Detail:

Cancer Research UK Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Manager in Dartford

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company inside out! Research Cancer Research UK’s mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.

✨Tip Number 2

Practice your interview skills with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on articulating how your experience aligns with the role of Research Manager. Remember, confidence is key!

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you. Plus, it makes for a more engaging conversation!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us in the fight against cancer.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Manager in Dartford

Research Management
Analytical Skills
Data Analysis
CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce)
Data Visualisation Tools
Team Leadership
Organisational Skills
Communication Skills
Market Trends Analysis
Competitor Analysis
Data Protection Regulations
Process Improvement
Collaboration Skills
Presentation Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to explore our website and get familiar with our mission and values. This will help you tailor your application to show how you align with what we stand for.

Craft Your CV Wisely: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and skills that match the Research Manager role. Use clear headings and bullet points to make it easy for us to see your achievements at a glance.

Be Authentic in Your Application: We want to hear your unique voice! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your written application. Share your passion for research and how you can contribute to our mission to beat cancer.

Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid disappointment, especially since this vacancy may close early if we find the right candidate.

How to prepare for a job interview at Cancer Research UK

✨Know Your Research

Before the interview, dive deep into Cancer Research UK's mission and values. Understand how the role of a Research Manager fits into their strategy for supporter engagement. This will help you articulate how your skills align with their goals.

✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills

Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've used data to drive decisions. Highlight your experience with CRM systems and data visualisation tools, as these are crucial for the role. Bring along any relevant case studies or reports that demonstrate your analytical prowess.

✨Communicate Clearly

Practice presenting complex information in a straightforward manner. Since you'll need to communicate research findings to diverse audiences, think about how you can simplify your explanations without losing the essence of the data.

✨Emphasise Team Collaboration

Cancer Research UK values collaboration, so be ready to share experiences where you've successfully worked within a team. Discuss how you’ve led projects or initiatives that required input from various stakeholders, showcasing your ability to operate effectively in a matrixed structure.

Research Manager in Dartford
Cancer Research UK
Location: Dartford

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