At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research initiatives and ensure compliance in clinical trials.
- Company: Join Sarah Cannon Research Institute, a leader in healthcare innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary with bonus incentives and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for significant career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patient care through cutting-edge research leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience in clinical trials management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 74250 - 90750 £ per year.
About Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI - UK)
Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK (SCRI) is a specialist research facility within HCA Healthcare UK, providing the infrastructure, governance, and operational expertise required to deliver clinical trials safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory standards. Working in partnership with medical, nursing, and pharmacy teams, SCRI helps expand patient access to innovative treatments and cutting-edge research opportunities, supporting the advancement of healthcare through clinical innovation.
As part of HCA Healthcare UK, SCRI shares a commitment to delivering exceptional patient care across our network of leading hospitals, outpatient centres, and specialist services. By combining world-class clinical expertise with innovation and advanced technology, HCA Healthcare UK provides outstanding care across a wide range of specialties, ensuring patients have access to the latest developments in treatment and research.
About the position
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Director of Research to lead the Sarah Cannon Research Institute and the newly established HCA Healthcare Research Institute (HRI). In this high-profile leadership role, you will drive the operational delivery of research and innovation across HCA Healthcare UK, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, governance and regulatory compliance.
Reporting to the CEO of the Harley Street Campus, you will be responsible for the strategic and operational performance of both research institutes, overseeing research infrastructure, contracts and partnerships, financial management, workforce planning and regulatory compliance.
Working closely with executive leaders and key stakeholders across Finance, Legal, Governance and Human Resources, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering HCA UK's research strategy, building a high-performing and sustainable research organisation that supports innovation and excellence in patient care.
Duties and responsibilities:
- Lead the overall strategic direction, operational performance, and growth of SCRI, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, safe, and compliant research services.
- Drive the development of HCA Healthcare Research Institute, establishing consistent standards, governance frameworks, and operational excellence across research and innovation activities.
- Identify and deliver opportunities for growth, innovation, and commercial development, strengthening SCRI's position as a leading clinical research organisation.
- Partner closely with medical, nursing, and pharmacy leaders to ensure the operational infrastructure supports the successful delivery and expansion of clinical trials.
- Develop and maintain strategic relationships with pharmaceutical, biotechnology, academic, and healthcare partners to grow research activity, particularly within oncology, haematology, and theragnostic.
- Lead the negotiation and management of clinical trial agreements, sponsor and CRO contracts, partnership agreements, and third-party supplier contracts, working collaboratively with Legal and Business Development teams.
- Act as the CQC Registered Manager for SCRI, ensuring ongoing regulatory compliance, patient safety, and inspection readiness.
- Oversee the development and continuous improvement of research policies, governance frameworks, and standard operating procedures that support excellence in research delivery.
- Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, continuous improvement, and collaboration across all research functions.
- Provide expert operational, financial, and regulatory advice to Executive Leadership, supporting strategic investment decisions, business cases, and key partnership opportunities.
Skills and experience
- Educated to degree level or equivalent; a relevant postgraduate qualification (e.g. MBA, MSc in clinical research, healthcare management) is desirable.
- Substantial experience in clinical trials management or senior research operations - ideally within an independent or academic NHS trust or pharmaceutical/biotech environment.
- Experience of CQC registration and regulatory compliance, ideally including direct experience as, or working closely with, a Registered Manager.
- Strong track record of contract negotiation within a clinical research or healthcare setting.
- Experience of building, leading, and developing operational teams and structures at scale.
Director of Research in City of Westminster employer: HCA Healthcare UK
HCA Healthcare UK is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Resident Doctors in Paediatrics/Neonatal to work in a world-class environment at The Portland's Hospital in London. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the chance to learn from leading consultants and utilise cutting-edge technology while enjoying flexible shift options that fit your lifestyle. Our inclusive work culture prioritises diversity and collaboration, ensuring that every team member can thrive and contribute to delivering outstanding patient care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Research in City of Westminster
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
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Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
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Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at HCA Healthcare UK.
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We think you need these skills to ace Director of Research in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at HCA Healthcare UK.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at HCA Healthcare UK.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to HCA Healthcare UK. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at HCA Healthcare UK. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at HCA Healthcare UK
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research HCA Healthcare UK’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
