At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead agile teams to design and build digital products for health research.
- Company: Dynamic organisation championing research in the NHS.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, NHS pensions, discounts, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace culture with a commitment to diversity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health research while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in agile product development and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 57528 - 64750 € per year.
The HRA is a dynamic organisation delivering excellent services through committees, simplifying the health research process and championing research in the NHS.
Main area: Product Owner
Grade: NHS AfC – Band 8a
Contract: Fixed term – 13 months (End date: 13 August 2027)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Job ref: 980-HRA52726492-B
Site: HRA Town, Manchester
Salary: £57,528 – £64,750 per annum (Yearly)
Closing: 02/06/2026 23:59
Job Overview
As a Product Owner you will lead agile teams to design and build digital products that support research regulation and approval systems across the UK. The role sits within the Research System Programme – a fast‑paced, iterative digital transformation programme developing services to replace legacy systems.
Main Duties
- Lead agile delivery teams, managing sprints, back‑logs and releases.
- Translate user needs and business goals into actionable product outcomes.
- Drive continuous improvement and innovation across products.
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the research ecosystem.
- Represent the programme in internal and external partnership forums, ensuring services are inclusive, accessible and impactful.
What you’ll bring
- Extensive knowledge of UK research regulation and health/social care research systems.
- Strong analytical, strategic planning and communication skills.
- Collaborative mindset with a proven ability to lead and coach others.
- Resilience and adaptability in a fast‑paced agile environment.
- A commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and continuous learning.
- Experience in agile product development is an advantage (training will be provided).
Qualifications & Experience
- Recognised management qualification equivalent to a degree or comparable relevant experience.
- Evidence of agile and/or product management training or certification.
- Post‑graduate qualification in a relevant discipline and evidence of continuous professional development.
- Experience user‑centred design, technology and data perspectives.
- Developed and maintained a product roadmap that meets organisational requirements.
- Coaching, mentoring and line‑management experience within agile teams.
- Knowledge of UK health research ecosystem, NHS R&D, NIHR structures and delivery processes.
Skills & Expertise
- Product lifecycle management and application of appropriate design and development approaches.
- Professional standards for digital public health services (e.g., NHS Service Manual, Government Service Standard).
- Standards for software, security, privacy and accessibility; contemporary organisational management practices.
- Analytical ability to identify problems, prioritise solutions and implement remedies.
Benefits & Commitment
The HRA offers a supportive, collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth, a healthy work‑life balance and inclusive workplace culture. Benefits include NHS pensions, discounts and continuous learning opportunities. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. The HRA is committed to diversity, inclusion and equality. Reasonable adjustments can be made for interview processes.
Equal Opportunities Statement
All applicants will be considered on a non‑discriminatory basis. The HRA welcomes applications from individuals of all ages, genders, disabilities, ethnic backgrounds, religions, and other protected characteristics.
Product Owner (maternity cover) in Manchester employer: Health Research Authority
The HRA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in Manchester that champions inclusivity and professional growth. As a Product Owner, you will have the opportunity to lead agile teams in a fast-paced digital transformation programme, while benefiting from NHS pensions, discounts, and a commitment to continuous learning. Join us to make a meaningful impact on health research regulation and approval systems across the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Owner (maternity cover) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to product ownership. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your experience effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for agile methodologies! Be ready to discuss how you've led teams, managed backlogs, and driven continuous improvement in past roles. This will demonstrate your fit for the fast-paced environment at HRA.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at HRA.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Owner (maternity cover) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the Product Owner role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Agile Experience:Since this role involves leading agile teams, be sure to include any relevant experience you have in agile product development. Share specific examples of how you've managed sprints or backlogs in past roles.
Highlight Your Stakeholder Skills:Building strong relationships is key for us. In your application, mention any experience you have working with stakeholders, especially in a research or health context, to demonstrate your collaborative mindset.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Health Research Authority
✨Know Your Agile Stuff
Make sure you brush up on agile methodologies and how they apply to product ownership. Be ready to discuss your experience with managing sprints, backlogs, and releases, as well as how you've driven continuous improvement in past roles.
✨Understand the Research Ecosystem
Familiarise yourself with the UK health research landscape, including NHS R&D and NIHR structures. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders and show that you understand the context of the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with diverse teams and stakeholders. Highlight your collaborative mindset and how you've led or coached others in previous positions, as this is crucial for a Product Owner.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Accessibility
Since the HRA values inclusivity and accessibility, be ready to discuss how you've incorporated these principles into your work. Share specific examples of how you've ensured that products are user-centred and accessible to all.
