At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape and deliver impactful research strategies while collaborating with academics and partners.
- Company: Join Lancaster University, a leader in research impact and innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements and opportunities for career advancement.
- Other info: Ideal for current Lancaster University employees seeking new challenges.
- Why this job: Make a real-world difference by driving research that benefits society and the planet.
- Qualifications: Experience in research impact, strong communication skills, and strategic thinking.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about turning research into real-world impact? Do you thrive on collaboration and making a difference? This is your chance to be part of a dynamic team working at the heart of Lancaster University's research impact strategy. We're looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Impact Development Manager to help drive forward the research impact agenda and support our Research Excellence Framework (REF) submission.
You will be working closely with senior research leaders, academic staff, and key contacts in Lancaster's Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences to support and develop research that demonstrates benefit to society, the economy and the planet.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Shaping and delivering research impact strategies across the Faculty
- Leading the production of high-quality REF impact case studies – offering expert guidance, gathering compelling evidence, and refining content to showcase the work being done
- Collaborating with academics, senior leaders, and external partners to amplify the impact of Lancaster's research
- Providing data analysis, expert insight, and hands‑on support to bring research impact stories to life
Qualifications & Experience:
- Experience in a research and impact environment within Higher Education
- A strong communicator who can engage confidently with academics, partners, and research end-users
- Knowledgeable about the research impact landscape (ideally with REF experience and knowledge)
- A strategic thinker with a hands‑on approach, ready to juggle multiple priorities and drive forward impactful projects
- Ability to work in a flexible and inclusive environment that values innovation and collaboration
Please note: this job is only available to current employees of Lancaster University. Be at the heart of research that drives real‑world change. Full‑time, part‑time, and flexible working arrangements considered. Looking for a secondment? This could be the perfect opportunity to gain new experience and take your career forward.
Impact Development Manager employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about research impact. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the university offers flexible working arrangements and opportunities for secondments, allowing staff to gain valuable experience while contributing to meaningful societal change. Join us at the heart of a vibrant academic community dedicated to making a difference in the world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Impact Development Manager
✨Get Involved Locally
Dive into local volunteer opportunities or social initiatives. This not only beefs up your CV but also connects you with like-minded folks in nonprofits. Plus, it shows your passion for social impact, which is key for getting noticed by Lancaster University.
✨Tap into Professional Networks
Join networks like the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) or local charities to meet professionals in the sector. Attend events and workshops to build relationships and learn about potential openings at organisations like Lancaster University.
✨Showcase Your Commitment
When prepping for interviews, be ready to speak about your personal connection to social issues. Dive into specific examples of how you’ve contributed to community projects – this will resonate with the mission-driven vibe at Lancaster University.
✨Utilise Online Platforms
We’re all about making connections, so use platforms like Idealist and CharityJob to hunt for full-time roles. And of course, you should keep an eye on our website for exciting opportunities at Lancaster University. Apply directly through us to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Impact Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the nonprofit sector, it's super important to demonstrate genuine passion for the mission of Lancaster University. Use your cover letter to showcase any personal experiences or volunteer work that connects you to their social impact initiatives. This emotional connection can really help your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When crafting your CV, be sure to include any relevant projects or roles that showcase your skills in social impact. Whether it's community organising, fundraising, or advocacy, highlight what you've done and the difference it's made. Don’t just list tasks; quantify your achievements and the outcomes of your efforts.
Tailor Your Documents to the Role:For a full-time role like Impact Development Manager, ensure your CV and cover letter specifically address the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use their language to describe your skills and experience, making it easy for the hiring team to see how you fit into their vision.
Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration:Nonprofits thrive on teamwork, so make sure to emphasise your collaborative experiences. Whether you've worked in a team setting, partnered with community organisations, or facilitated group projects, highlight these experiences in your application. Show them you understand the importance of working alongside diverse individuals to achieve shared goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Show Your Passion for Social Change
When we’re prepping for interviews in the nonprofit space, it's vital to demonstrate our genuine passion for social impact. Be ready to discuss not just your skills and experiences but also why you care about the mission of Lancaster University. Sharing personal stories or insights can really make us stand out.
✨Highlight Project Experience
We should focus on specific projects we've worked on that align with the goals of social impact. Whether that’s a community initiative, volunteering, or a class project, having solid examples that showcase our role and the outcomes will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Familiarity with Relevant Tools and Practices
Let’s brush up on tools and methodologies commonly used in the nonprofit sector, like project management software or outcome measurement frameworks. Being able to speak fluently about these will show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that evaluate our problem-solving skills in real-world social issues. Think about how we’d handle challenges in the nonprofit environment and prepare stories that demonstrate our critical thinking and adaptability. Role-playing with a friend could help us feel more confident!
