Dean- Research & Innovation

Strategic Leadership Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the Research and Innovation function, including setting priorities, objectives and performance indicators.
• Lead, manage and develop research staff, including goal setting, performance management and identification of training and development needs.
• Develop and implement institutional strategies to grow internal and externally funded research in alignment with the University’s strategic plan.
• Identify and drive long‑term research priorities, including the development of flagship research themes and interdisciplinary initiatives.

• Critically review and advise on research proposals of strategic importance.
• Coach faculty to improve quality and success rates.
• Support the preparation and submission of institutional research returns, rankings and performance frameworks (e.g., ‑equivalent or benchmarking exercises).
• Ensure efficient and compliant delivery of research services across pre‑award and post‑award stages.
• Oversee post‑award research management, including audits, compliance and reporting.

• Advise on legal, regulatory and governance matters related to research, including intellectual property, ethics and risk management.
• Conduct and oversee risk assessments for large or complex research projects.

• Design and deliver training, CPD programmes, workshops and briefings on research funding, grants and enterprise development.
• Communicate complex research‑related information clearly through workshops, briefings and one‑to‑one mentoring.
• Represent Research and Innovation on University committees and working groups, presenting reports and recommendations as required.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with national and international research networks, funding bodies and academic institutions.
• Promote collaborative research and industry partnerships to enhance external income and research impact.

• Analyse and interpret research performance data, including KPIs, targets, benchmarking and competitor analysis.
• Provide regular reports and strategic insights to the Vice Chancellor and senior leadership to support informed decision‑making.

• Actively contribute as a core member of the University’s research leadership team.
• Undertake continuous professional development to stay current with global research best practices.
• Perform other duties as reasonably assigned, commensurate with the role and seniority.

• Advanced analytical, strategic thinking and policy conceptualisation skills.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement and communication capabilities.
• Proven ability to manage complex research portfolios and institutional research strategies.

• PhD in IT, Business, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of demonstrated experience in developing, securing and managing research funding.
• Prior leadership experience within universities or higher education institutions.