At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage innovative funding schemes in economic and social research.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at UKRI, fostering collaboration and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a supportive environment for career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on research funding and shape the future of social sciences.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree and experience in managing complex funding portfolios.
The predicted salary is between 46743 - 46743 £ per year.
Salary: £46,743 per annum. Band: UKRI Band E. Contract Type: Open-Ended. Hours: Full time/ Part time (minimum 0.6 FTE). Location: Polaris House, Swindon - Hybrid Working Available. Closing date: 24 August 2026.
About the role
Working directly with the Head of Economics and the Heads of Social Research you will have responsibility for the effective delivery, management and monitoring of ESRC's refreshed applicant-led mode schemes. Key to the success of ESRC's launch is to deliver a coordinated portfolio of funding opportunities. You will have responsibility for a cluster of research fields within economic and social research where you will build and sustain strong relationships with the research community as well as with relevant government and industry partners. You may be asked to provide line management and professional development for staff at Grades D and C. You will also ensure strong connectivity with relevant UKRI priority programmes and other parts of ESRC's investment portfolio. You will be expected to adopt innovation in funding processes, working to continually identify improved ways of funding and supporting applicant-led research. We are particularly interested in how you work, not just what you have done. We are looking for applicants who demonstrate curiosity, creativity and a strong innovation mentality and who apply what they know in a way that fully aligns with UKRI values.
Your Responsibilities
- Work at the interface between strategic leadership and delivery with effective communication skills to develop and implement key priorities, policies, and strategies.
- Lead the scoping and development, commissioning, and management of high-quality innovation and research investments in applicant-led mode.
- Coordinate and manage a portfolio of activities to maximise impact and knowledge exchange across a portfolio of investments.
- Build and develop strong relationships working across the ESRC, UKRI and external partners to ensure that investments are robust, informed, and impactful.
- Work with others to ensure investments are appropriately managed, monitored, evaluated and their impact communicated.
- Support and deputise for senior staff as required and undertake periodic work on areas outside of the team as needed, supporting the wider work of UKRI.
- Provide inclusive and effective line management.
Personal Specification
Essential Relevant degree or equivalent knowledge and skills. Experience of managing complex funding or programme portfolios, including strategic prioritisation, investment oversight, and performance monitoring.
Senior Portfolio Manager employer: Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC)
The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at Polaris House in Swindon, where hybrid working fosters flexibility and work-life balance. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that prioritises professional development and engagement with impactful social science initiatives, ensuring meaningful contributions to society while enjoying opportunities for growth and networking within the research community.
Contact Details:
Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) Recruitment Team
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