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- Tasks: Lead research initiatives to improve life chances for children and young people.
- Company: Coram, the UK's oldest children's charity with a rich history and impactful mission.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through innovative research and policy influence.
- Qualifications: Experience in securing research funding and a strong commitment to improving children's lives.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to creating lasting positive change.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 105000 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary: Circa £75,000 per annum (negotiable)
Location: Coram Campus, Bloomsbury, with occasional travel and some working from home as agreed
Coram, which is the oldest children's charity, is a group of specialist organisations; we help more than 1 million children and young people from infancy to independence, creating positive change that lasts a lifetime. Established by Royal Charter in 1739, as the Foundling Hospital, and operating from its distinctive 3.5 acres headquarters in the heart of London, Coram has built a position of insight, influence, and research by working closely with other organisations and other sectors, universities and government, professionals, and families. We have ambitious plans for the future, to be the UK's leading recognised research organisation, dedicated to improving life chances as the Institute for Children.
Responsibilities:
- Lead the advancement of the Coram Institute for Children as a UKRI recognised independent research organisation (IRO).
- Drive research capacity and capability, champion and deliver internal and external evaluations, and advance Coram's sector credibility and relationships.
- Inform and contribute to the group’s reach, relevance and results; oversee a large team of mixed methods researchers and data analysts.
- Act as a credible research leader and senior manager with an entrepreneurial approach to lead the only IRO in the children and young people's sector.
Candidate profile / Qualifications:
- Strong business focus with a commitment to translating research findings into policy and practice.
- Direct experience of securing research funding from sources such as research councils, What Works Centres, local and central government, or Trusts and Foundations.
- Ability to work individually, in a team and across the organisation.
- Strong critical thinking, partnership-building, and knowledge of improving lives of children are essential.
To apply: To apply for this role, please visit the Coram website to complete an application. CVS will not be accepted.
Key dates:
- Closing date: 18th February 2026 at 12 noon
- Interview date: 26th & 27th February 2026
Equal Opportunities: Coram is an equal opportunities employer and we believe a diverse workforce enables us to improve the services to the children and families we help. We are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from all sections of the community we seek to support. This includes those from global majority ethnic backgrounds, those that identify as LGBQT+, those with disabilities, those with lived experience of care, those with neuro-diversity, and those from other groups who are underrepresented at Coram. If applicants feel comfortable, we would encourage them to draw on lived experience as well as professional experience in their personal statement as part of their application. We are committed to the safeguarding of children and where appropriate will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Head of Service - Research Programmes employer: Coram
Contact Detail:
Coram Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - Research Programmes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Coram or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Coram's mission and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for improving the lives of children and how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for the Head of Service role. Keep it concise but impactful – we want to hear your story!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission at Coram.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - Research Programmes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand the role and what Coram is all about. Dive into their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show why you're the perfect fit!
Be Authentic: When writing your personal statement, don’t hold back! Share your lived experiences and professional journey. We want to see the real you, so let your personality shine through. It’s all about making a genuine connection with us.
Showcase Your Achievements: Highlight your relevant achievements and experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead research programmes. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've made an impact in previous roles. Numbers and outcomes can really make your application stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, we only accept applications through our website, so make sure you submit your application there. It’s super easy, and you’ll be one step closer to joining our amazing team at Coram!
How to prepare for a job interview at Coram
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into Coram's research initiatives and their impact on children's lives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to advancing their goals.
✨Showcase Your Funding Success
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully secured research funding in the past. Highlight your strategies and the outcomes, as this role requires a strong business focus and the ability to translate research into practice.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Think about your leadership style and be prepared to share examples of how you've led teams effectively. Discuss how you foster collaboration and drive results, especially in mixed methods research environments.
✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion
Coram values diversity, so be ready to talk about how you’ve promoted inclusivity in your previous roles. Share any personal experiences that have shaped your understanding of the challenges faced by underrepresented groups.
