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- Tasks: Lead governance and risk management for Research England, ensuring high standards and effective operations.
- Company: Join UK Research and Innovation, a leader in research funding and innovation in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 30 days annual leave, and access to a Civil Service pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in higher education while working in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven governance experience and strong stakeholder management skills are essential.
- Other info: This role is based in Bristol with occasional travel required across the UK.
The predicted salary is between 46796 - 64500 £ per year.
Salary: £56,745
Grade: UKRI Band F
Contract Type: Open Ended (Permanent)
Hours: Full Time
Location: Westward House, Bristol
Closing Date: 21 April 25
Proposed Interview Date: 01 & 02 May 25
About Us
UK Research and Innovation brings together nine partners (‘councils’) to create an independent organisation with a strong voice for research and innovation, and a vision to ensure the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation. Research England is one of the nine councils within UK Research and Innovation, operating from April 2018. As a key component of the research funding system, Research England oversees UK Research and Innovation’s England-only functions in relation to university research and knowledge exchange.
Purpose
To provide high quality and effective advice and support on governance, risk and assurance matters to Research England, working collaboratively with UKRI colleagues; in doing so, developing and demonstrating a thorough understanding of research and knowledge exchange in the higher education sector and the political and organisational context within which Research England and UKRI operate.
Responsibilities
- Take a strategic approach to the successful operation of Research England’s Council and Executive Group, building effective relationships with members of both groups and ensuring they adhere to best practice principles of governance.
- Proactively manage the business of the Research England Council and Executive Group, including provision of a full secretariat service for Research England’s governance groups.
- Lead the cyclical review of the effectiveness of the Executive Group and Council.
- Lead the recruitment (and associated processes, including succession planning and induction) of Research England Council members.
- Work closely with the Associate Director of Governance, Risk and Operations to provide strategic advice and foresight to help ensure that the Council and Executive Group deliver to their fullest potential.
- Develop and implement governance and risk policies and processes across Research England, ensuring alignment with the wider UK Research and Innovation policies.
- Manage the Research England risk management framework, including risk reporting to Council and the Executive Group.
- Advise Research England colleagues with regard to governance or risk matters which may affect their areas of work.
- Engage with wider UK Research and Innovation colleagues to share practice and improve overall effectiveness.
- Liaise with UK Research and Innovation colleagues with regard to responses to complaints, fraud and other operational governance matters.
Position & Person Requirements
Shortlisting Criteria:
- A successful track record as a governance professional with significant recent experience.
- Experience of managing a successful team or function with multiple work strands.
- Experience of leading and managing a successful Secretariat function.
- An understanding of how a policy or funding organisation operates.
- A demonstrable ability to adapt, reach out and build trust and collaborative working.
- Proven strength in stakeholder management, with the ability to build effective relationships with people of all levels both internally and externally.
- Excellent organisational skills with an ability to delegate and to deploy resources effectively to deliver results.
- Experience of risk management in the public sector.
APPLICATIONS
Online applications only for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for the role.
BENEFITS:
- Flexible Working
- 30 days annual leave + Public Holidays
- Access to Civil Service Pension Scheme
- Various everyday discounts through our dedicated provider.
How we support EDI in the workforce
At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so.
Head of Governance and Risk employer: UK Research and Innovation
Contact Detail:
UK Research and Innovation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Governance and Risk
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the governance and risk frameworks used by Research England and UKRI. Understanding these frameworks will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show that you're ready to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Research England or similar organisations. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into the organisational culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in higher education research and knowledge exchange. Being able to discuss these topics intelligently will set you apart as a candidate who is not only qualified but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your governance and risk management skills. Tailoring your responses to reflect the responsibilities outlined in the job description will help you make a strong impression during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Governance and Risk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Governance and Risk position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your CV and covering letter effectively.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in governance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Covering Letter: Your covering letter should clearly articulate your motivation for applying and how your background aligns with the role. Address the key responsibilities and requirements mentioned in the job description, providing concrete examples of your achievements.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you submit your application online, including both your CV and covering letter. Remember to include the job reference number in the filename of each document. Failing to follow these instructions may result in your application not being considered.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Research and Innovation
✨Understand the Governance Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the governance structures and frameworks relevant to Research England and UKRI. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their principles of governance and risk management.
✨Showcase Stakeholder Management Skills
Demonstrate your ability to build effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels. Prepare examples of how you've successfully influenced senior leaders and navigated complex environments in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Anticipate questions that may require you to think on your feet, especially regarding risk management and decision-making in challenging situations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts succinctly and engagingly. Ensure you can convey complex ideas in a way that is accessible to both internal and external audiences, as this will be crucial in your role.
