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- Tasks: Lead the NIHR RDN to ensure excellent research delivery across health and care systems.
- Company: Join the University of Leeds and shape the future of health and care research in England.
- Benefits: Enjoy a significant national role with a substantial budget and high-performing executive team.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of policy shaping and innovation in health and care research delivery.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior leadership experience in health, NHS, or related fields is essential.
- Other info: Apply by 26 March 2025; interviews via Microsoft Teams and at the University of Leeds.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Executive Director NIHR Research Delivery Network
Are you a dynamic, visionary leader ready to shape the future of health and care research in England? The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Research Delivery Network (RDN) is seeking its next Executive Director to drive strategic direction and ensure operational excellence in research delivery across the health and care system.
You will lead the NIHR RDN, ensuring the seamless delivery of excellent research across the NHS and wider health and care settings in furtherance of its strategic objectives. Employed by the University of Leeds, you will work in close partnership with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and key stakeholders to shape policy and strategy and implement a bold, shared vision for the future of research delivery in England.
This significant national role demands exceptional leadership, visionary thinking, and the ability to drive transformative change in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment. You will be responsible for a substantial budget, lead a high-performing executive team, and be a powerful advocate for a cohesive national approach to research delivery.
Key to your success will be your extensive experience of senior health and care leadership within government, the NHS, life sciences industry, social care, public health, or Higher Education. You will have a solid understanding of the NHS and health and care research, a track record of delivering results in a multi-faceted and dynamic environment, and a passion for research and its impact on patient care. With a successful track record of building and maintaining strong public and private sector partnerships, of leading change and managing people and financial resources, you will be capable of engaging, inspiring and influencing at all levels and demonstrating commitment to strategic and operational excellence.
This role represents a rare and exciting opportunity to lead a national organisation at the forefront of shaping policy, driving innovation, and ensuring that the UK remains a global leader in health and care research delivery.
Applications should be made via email to and must include on separate documents:
- a letter of application setting out your interest in the role and details of how you match the person specification
- a comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV)
- details of three referees and notice period (referees will not be contacted without your permission)
- a completed Personal Details Form (available above)
Closing date for applications is midday, Wednesday 26 March 2025.
Longlist interviews will be held with Dixon Walter via Microsoft Teams w/c 7 April.
Final interviews will take place at the University of Leeds on a date to be confirmed – watch this space for details.
Please note that our client is legally obliged to confirm that the appointee is eligible to work in the UK.
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Executive Director NIHR Research Delivery Network employer: Dixon Walter
Contact Detail:
Dixon Walter Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director NIHR Research Delivery Network
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your leadership experience in health and care settings. Highlight specific examples where you've driven change or improved outcomes, as this role demands exceptional leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the NHS and health research sectors. Building relationships with key stakeholders can provide insights into the role and may even lead to recommendations that strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and policies in health and care research. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by practicing how to articulate your vision for the future of health and care research. Be ready to discuss how you would implement strategic objectives and drive operational excellence.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director NIHR Research Delivery Network
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required for the Executive Director position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling Letter of Application: Your letter should clearly express your interest in the role and detail how your background and skills match the person specification. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your leadership capabilities and understanding of health and care research.
Prepare Your CV: Ensure your CV is comprehensive and highlights relevant experience in senior health and care leadership. Focus on achievements that showcase your ability to drive change, manage resources, and build partnerships within the health sector.
Gather References: Select three referees who can speak to your professional qualifications and leadership abilities. Make sure to inform them in advance and confirm their willingness to provide a reference when contacted.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dixon Walter
✨Demonstrate Visionary Leadership
Prepare to showcase your visionary thinking and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven transformative change in previous roles, particularly in complex environments.
✨Showcase Your Understanding of the NHS
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the NHS structure and health and care research landscape. Highlight your experience and understanding of how these elements interact and influence research delivery.
✨Emphasize Partnership Building
Discuss your track record in building and maintaining strong partnerships across public and private sectors. Be prepared to provide examples of successful collaborations that led to impactful outcomes.
✨Prepare for Financial Management Questions
Since you'll be responsible for a substantial budget, be ready to discuss your experience in managing financial resources. Prepare to explain how you've ensured operational excellence while adhering to budget constraints.
