Strategic Benefits Manager, Scientific Infrastructure in Norwich

Strategic Benefits Manager, Scientific Infrastructure in Norwich

Norwich Full-Time 50000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
John Innes Centre

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead benefits management for a transformative scientific infrastructure programme.
  • Company: Join the John Innes Centre, a top research institute in plant and microbial science.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to impact global scientific research.
  • Other info: Unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in scientific excellence.
  • Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking £400m programme that shapes the future of scientific collaboration.
  • Qualifications: Experience in benefits management within large-scale change programmes is preferred.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.

The John Innes Centre (JIC) is one of the world’s leading research institutes in plant and microbial science. At the centre of its long‑term strategy sits the Next Generation Infrastructure (NGI) Programme, a major publicly and privately funded capital and transformation programme with the Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) that will redefine how world‑class science is delivered at the Norwich Research Park.

NGI is an ambitious, multi‑year £400m+ programme that brings together significant capital investment and complex organisational change. Its most substantial element is the development of a new laboratory and enabling infrastructure that will bring together researchers from JIC and TSL into a flexible, future‑ready environment, purpose‑built for collaboration, discovery and global scientific impact. Enabling projects are already underway and, with the main laboratory project set to be delivered over the next five years, the programme will create facilities that support advanced research, training, teaching and learning, while acting as a national and international hub for plant and microbial science.

The NGI Benefits Manager will play a critical role in ensuring that the Programme delivers clear, measurable and sustained value. Acting as the single point of accountability for benefits management, the role will establish and embed a comprehensive, end‑to‑end framework that links investment decisions to realised outcomes. Working closely with the NGI Programme Director, Senior Business Change Manager and SRO, the post holder will ensure that benefits are clearly defined, prioritised, measured and actively managed across all workstreams. The post holder will also lead the development of outcomes‑focused KPIs, oversee benefits reporting to internal and external stakeholders, and ensure that benefits are sustained beyond programme completion, meeting the expectations of government and funding bodies.

The successful candidate will be an experienced benefits professional with a track record of leading benefits management within large‑scale, complex transformational change programmes. They will bring expertise in establishing benefits frameworks, defining measurable outcomes and embedding benefits across programme delivery and organisational change, in line with investment requirements. Experience of benefits realisation for change programmes in scientific, academic, infrastructure or similarly complex environments will be advantageous, although not essential.

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in one of the most significant scientific infrastructure programmes in the UK, make a major impact in the region, and deliver a legacy that will underpin scientific excellence for decades to come.

Strategic Benefits Manager, Scientific Infrastructure in Norwich employer: John Innes Centre

The John Innes Centre (JIC) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements within a collaborative and innovative environment at the Norwich Research Park. With a strong commitment to employee growth, JIC provides access to cutting-edge resources and training, fostering a culture of excellence and discovery. Joining the NGI Programme means being part of a transformative initiative that not only shapes the future of plant and microbial science but also ensures a lasting impact on the scientific community and beyond.

John Innes Centre

Contact Details:

John Innes Centre Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Strategic Benefits Manager, Scientific Infrastructure in Norwich

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the scientific infrastructure field, especially those connected to the John Innes Centre. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to get your name out there and learn about potential opportunities.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the NGI Programme thoroughly. Understand its goals, challenges, and how your skills can contribute to its success. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out from the crowd.

Tip Number 3

Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Strategic Benefits Manager role. We want to see your application directly, and it helps us keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!

We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Benefits Manager, Scientific Infrastructure in Norwich

Benefits Management
Framework Development
KPI Development
Stakeholder Engagement
Project Management
Transformational Change
Outcome Measurement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in benefits management and transformational change. We want to see how your skills align with the NGI Programme's goals, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!

Showcase Your Expertise:When writing about your past roles, focus on specific examples where you’ve successfully established benefits frameworks or led complex projects. We love seeing measurable outcomes, so include any KPIs or results that demonstrate your impact.

Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at John Innes Centre

Know Your Benefits Management

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of benefits management frameworks. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully implemented these in past roles, especially in complex environments like scientific or academic settings.

Showcase Your Strategic Thinking

Prepare examples that highlight your ability to link investment decisions to measurable outcomes. Think about specific KPIs you've developed and how they contributed to the success of previous programmes.

Understand the NGI Programme

Familiarise yourself with the Next Generation Infrastructure Programme and its goals. Being able to discuss how your role as a Benefits Manager can contribute to its success will show your genuine interest and understanding of the position.

Engage with Stakeholders

Be prepared to talk about your experience in managing stakeholder expectations. Discuss how you've communicated benefits reporting to both internal and external parties, ensuring everyone is aligned and informed throughout the process.