At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global research operations and drive innovative blockchain projects.
- Company: Join a pioneering tech company focused on blockchain research and development.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work, competitive PTO, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the blockchain space while shaping research strategies.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field and extensive experience in research management.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Who are we? IOG is a technology company focused on blockchain research and development. We are renowned for our scientific approach to blockchain development, emphasizing peer-reviewed research and formal methods to ensure security, scalability, and sustainability. Our projects include the Cardano blockchain, as well as other products in the areas of decentralized finance (DeFi), governance, and identity management, aiming to advance the capabilities and adoption of blockchain and Web3 technology globally.
What The Role Involves The Vice President of Research Operations provides strategic and operational leadership across the organization's global research ecosystem. This role oversees multiple research functions—partnerships, grants, compliance, and strategic research initiatives—ensuring alignment with enterprise-wide objectives and innovation priorities. Operating as part of the executive leadership team and serving on the IOG Operating Council, the VP defines and drives the organization's research operations strategy, ensuring that all programs are efficiently executed, ethically governed, and effectively funded. This leader is both a strategic builder and an operator, defaulting to collaboration and actively reducing organizational silos. This includes developing a sustainable research funding framework, fostering high-value academic and industry partnerships, and optimizing operational processes that enable world‐class scientific outcomes. Success in this role is reflected through enhanced research impact, optimized resource utilization, and a cohesive, high‐performing research culture that supports innovation and thought leadership across the enterprise.
- Strategic Leadership
- Define and lead the overall research operations strategy, ensuring alignment with enterprise vision and long‐term innovation goals.
- Drive operational excellence across all research programs, fostering efficiency, scalability, and impact.
- Develop multi‐year strategic plans for research funding, partnership growth, and resource allocation.
- Collaborate with C‐level executives to shape cross‐departmental initiatives that connect research outputs to business and technology strategy, with a focus on integrating research roadmaps and requirements into the product/software development planning cycles.
- Research Partnership & Grant Strategy
- Oversee a global portfolio of research partnerships with universities, government agencies, industry consortia, and innovation bodies.
- Lead enterprise‐wide grant management and funding acquisition, ensuring diversification of research revenue streams.
- Establish governance frameworks to ensure compliance with grant and funding regulations, ethical standards, and data security.
- Represent the organization in global research networks, advisory boards, and strategic consortiums to advance influence and visibility.
- Operational Excellence & Governance
- Build and optimize processes for proposal development, project delivery, monitoring, and reporting across research teams.
- Oversee budgets for research programs and operational functions, ensuring efficient allocation of financial and human capital.
- Define and monitor metrics for research impact, outcomes, and ROI to guide strategic decision‐making and continuous improvement.
- Actively reduce operational inefficiencies and modernize research delivery through the strategic adoption of AI, data analytics, and workflow automation.
- Develop and monitor interactions between research and other units and divisions within the company to ensure high impact of research, knowledge transfer, timely dissemination and requirements communication.
- Leadership, Culture, and Capability Development
- Lead and mentor a team to deliver high‐quality research outcomes and foster a culture of accountability and innovation, while embodying servant leadership and promoting proactive planning.
- Establish frameworks for succession planning, workforce capability development, and leadership coaching across research functions.
- Champion a culture of inclusion, ethical conduct, and collaboration across academic and industry research partnerships.
- External Representation & Thought Leadership
- Act as a senior spokesperson and ambassador for the IOG's research mission at global conferences, consortia, and policy forums.
- Shape and influence the external funding landscape by engaging with key stakeholders, donors, and government bodies.
Requirements Who you are Desirable: PhD in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related research field. Desirable: Advanced leadership or management certification (e.g., Executive MBA, research leadership training). 12+ years in research management, partnerships, or operations roles, Desirable: with at least 5 years at a senior leadership level. Demonstrated success managing multi‐million‐dollar research portfolios and funding strategies. Experience leading multi‐disciplinary, multi‐stakeholder research programs across academia, industry, and government. Proven experience in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and large‐scale operational transformation. Established network within research funding agencies, universities, and technology innovation ecosystems. Knowledge of blockchain, distributed ledger technologies, or emerging tech research landscapes. Executive communication and stakeholder influence at C‐level and industry forums. Strategic leadership and people development across multiple functions. Adaptability, cultural intelligence, and collaboration across diverse global teams. Decision‐making under complexity with strong ethical and compliance orientation. Enterprise‐level strategic thinking and cross‐functional alignment. Financial acumen in multi‐program research funding and budget oversight. Policy and governance leadership in research integrity and compliance. Innovation mindset with focus on continuous improvement and impact measurement. In‐depth understanding of research operations, academic collaboration models, and funding ecosystems. Strong grasp of data‐driven research management, KPI frameworks, and research information systems. Expertise in large‐scale grant and partnership portfolio management across government, academic, and industry ecosystems. Proven record of developing global research strategies, policies, and governance frameworks.
Benefits Remote work Laptop reimbursement New starter package to buy hardware essentials (headphones, monitor, etc) Learning & Development opportunities Competitive PTO At IOG, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are valued and empowered to succeed. We welcome people of all backgrounds and ensure that employment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications, and potential. Everyone is given equal opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Vice President - Research Operations in London employer: Io Me
At IOG, we pride ourselves on being a leading technology company in blockchain research and development, offering an inclusive and collaborative work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. As a Vice President of Research Operations, you will have the opportunity to shape innovative research strategies while benefiting from competitive PTO, remote work options, and extensive learning and development opportunities. Join us in advancing the future of blockchain technology in a dynamic environment that values diversity and fosters professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice President - Research Operations in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the blockchain and research fields, especially those connected to IOG. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your past research projects and partnerships. When you get the chance to chat with someone from IOG, share your insights and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on blockchain trends! Follow relevant news, research papers, and developments in the field. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role and the company’s vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the IOG team. Don’t forget to tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the VP of Research Operations role!
We think you need these skills to ace Vice President - Research Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Vice President - Research Operations role. Highlight your relevant experience in research management and partnerships, and show how your skills align with our mission at IOG.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've led teams, managed multi-million-dollar research portfolios, and fostered collaboration across diverse groups. This is key for a strategic role like this.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make your achievements stand out. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially in a leadership position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget 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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Io Me
✨Know Your Blockchain Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of blockchain technology, especially in relation to IOG's projects like Cardano. Be ready to discuss how your expertise aligns with their focus on security, scalability, and sustainability in research.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a VP, you'll need to demonstrate your strategic leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led multi-disciplinary teams and managed large-scale research portfolios. Highlight your experience in fostering collaboration and reducing silos.
✨Understand the Research Ecosystem
Familiarise yourself with the global research landscape, including partnerships with universities and government agencies. Be prepared to discuss how you would enhance IOG's research impact and funding strategies while ensuring compliance and ethical standards.
✨Prepare for Executive-Level Conversations
Since you'll be part of the executive leadership team, practice articulating your vision and strategies clearly. Think about how you can influence stakeholders at the C-level and engage effectively in policy forums. Confidence is key!
