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- Tasks: Lead impactful research programmes to improve the lives of children and young people.
- Company: Coram, the UK's oldest children's charity, dedicated to creating lasting positive change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and drive meaningful research that influences policy and practice.
- Qualifications: Experience in research leadership and securing funding, with a passion for child welfare.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equality and safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 105000 £ per year.
Contract – Permanent
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.
About the role
This role works directly with the Chief Executive as a member of the Senior Management Team in achievement of this vision and strategy; it will 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, advance Coram’s sector credibility and relationships, and inform and contribute to the group’s reach, relevance and results.
This senior position leads a large team of mixed methods researchers and data analysts and comprises an important opportunity for a credible research leader and experienced charity senior manager who is dynamic and multi-skilled with an entrepreneurial approach to lead the only IRO in the children and young people’s sector.
The successful candidate will have a strong business focus and commitment to translating research findings into policy and practice and direct experience of securing research council funding, or funding from sources such as What Works Centres, local and central government or Trusts and Foundations.
You will be able to work individually, in a team and across the organisation. Strong critical thinking ability, partnership building skills and knowledge, experience and commitment to improving lives of children are essential.
How to apply
To apply for this role, please visit the Coram website to complete an application. Please note CVs will not be accepted.
Schedule
Closing date: 18th February 2026 at 12 noon
Interview date: 26th & 27th February 2026
Equality, diversity and safeguarding
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.
Managing Director of Research Programmes in London employer: Coram
Contact Detail:
Coram Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director of Research Programmes in London
✨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 a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Coram's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in improving the lives of children and young people. We love candidates who are passionate about our cause!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you've driven research initiatives in the past. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that energy to the Managing Director role.
✨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 us you’re serious about joining the team at Coram.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director of Research Programmes in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. We want to see your passion for improving the lives of children and young people, so make sure your application reflects that commitment.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates customise their personal statements to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the role. Show us how your background makes you the perfect fit for leading our research programmes.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make your achievements stand out, and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role.
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 mission to create positive change for children and young people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Coram
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
As a Managing Director of Research Programmes, you’ll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of the research landscape. Familiarise yourself with Coram's current projects and their impact on children and young people. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to advancing their research capabilities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and team management abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in research settings. Highlight your experience in building partnerships and driving collaborative efforts, as these will be crucial for the position.
✨Demonstrate Funding Expertise
Since securing funding is a key part of this role, come prepared to discuss your experience with research council funding and other sources. Share specific examples of successful funding applications you've led or contributed to, and how those funds were used to drive impactful research.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
Coram values diversity and inclusion, so be sure to express your commitment to these principles. Discuss any relevant experiences you have that demonstrate your understanding of the importance of diverse perspectives in research and how you’ve worked to promote inclusivity in your previous roles.
