At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on integrated care pathways and evaluate new interventions.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the Scottish Prison Service focused on impactful research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 37-42 days annual leave, gym access, and discounts at popular retailers.
- Other info: Great opportunities for personal and professional development await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health and wellbeing through innovative research.
- Qualifications: Degree in social sciences or equivalent, with research and evaluation experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This role is within our small Research and Evaluation team (reporting to the Head of Research & Evaluation) and will lead research activity on integrated care pathways linked to the evolving work of SPS’s FAI Taskforce - which includes addressing the physical environment, security, health and safety, support and wellbeing, in addition to health. Acting as the single point of contact for research on integrated care pathways, the role will work closely with the Health Analyst in the Data and Analysis team. A core focus will be on Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) to enable SPS to assess the impact and effectiveness of newly developed interventions and approaches.
Key responsibilities will therefore include:
- Liaison with colleagues across the business to develop fit-for-purpose tools and methods that support service delivery, drive improvement and enable accountability.
- Managing procurement and delivery of complex commissioned research projects, providing quality and ethical assurance.
If you have the following, we would like to hear from you:
- Educated to degree level or equivalent in the social sciences and/or a specialist qualification in research and/or evaluation.
- Experience of designing, commissioning and managing qualitative and quantitative research and evaluation projects.
- Skilled in applying robust methodologies to generate high quality evidence.
- Ability to translate complex findings into actionable insights that inform policy and practice.
- Experience of designing and implementing MEL systems and tools to support effective project and programme delivery.
- Skilled in developing robust frameworks, indicators and data collection methods that generate meaningful insights to inform decision-making within complex environments.
- Experience of coordinating a portfolio of research / MEL project work to ensure that projects are properly timetabled, resources are appropriately allocated, delivery milestones are met and benefits are delivered in line with organisational priorities.
Some of the benefits you can enjoy in role are:
- Commitment to your personal and professional development.
- Free gym and car parking.
- Discounts at high street stores, supermarkets and restaurants through our partners at Blue Light Card, Edenred and Civil Service Sports Council.
- Sick Pay.
- Annual Leave - 37 days rising to 42 days.
For information on the job, including full job description and person specification, and to apply for these vacancies please visit the Scottish Prison Service website: www.sps.gov.uk. We are committed to your personal and professional development and offer a wide range of career progression opportunities.
FAI Research & Evaluation Manager employer: Scottish Prison Service
The Scottish Prison Service is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises personal and professional development. As a member of our small Research and Evaluation team, you will have the opportunity to lead impactful research on integrated care pathways while enjoying generous benefits such as 37 days of annual leave, free gym access, and discounts at various retailers. Our commitment to employee growth and a collaborative environment makes this role both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FAI Research & Evaluation Manager
✨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 researching the company and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your skills align with their mission, especially around integrated care pathways and MEL systems.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on translating complex findings into actionable insights during these sessions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re all about supporting your personal and professional development, so let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace FAI Research & Evaluation Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in research and evaluation. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills in designing and managing research projects can benefit our team. Give examples of how you've translated complex findings into actionable insights.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free of jargon. This will help us see your potential right away!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and methodologies in integrated care pathways. Familiarise yourself with SPS’s FAI Taskforce work and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your MEL Skills
Prepare examples of how you've designed and implemented Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning systems in past roles. Be specific about the frameworks and indicators you’ve developed and how they’ve informed decision-making.
✨Communicate Complex Ideas Simply
Practice translating complex research findings into actionable insights. During the interview, aim to demonstrate your ability to communicate these ideas clearly, as this is crucial for informing policy and practice.
✨Demonstrate Project Management Prowess
Be ready to discuss your experience in managing multiple research projects. Highlight how you ensure projects are on schedule, resources are allocated effectively, and milestones are met, all while aligning with organisational priorities.
