Head of Research

Do you have experience leading large‑scale research projects and teams? Are you motivated by research that drives real change? Are you as comfortable giving a speech to a room full of academics and institutions as you joining in the Christmas jumper quiz in a friendly and fun charity? Are you inclusive to your core and able to lead a team half of whom have lived experience?

Mencap is looking for a Head of Research, and this could be the perfect opportunity for you This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a passionate, skilled and impactful research team whose work sits at the heart of Mencap’s mission.

The insights you and your team unearth will directly support our policy and influencing work to break down barriers and create a fairer society for people with a learning disability. You will have access to Mencap’s wide reaching networks and be able to see the knowledge you bring into the organisation make a real difference in the delivery of our many different services and programmes.

This role is a full time (37.5 hours per week), permanent role. We’re offering flexibility as to where this role is based, we’re also open to discussions about part‑time working.

As Head of Research, you will:

• Develop and deliver Mencap’s research strategy, shaping work that advances our mission and strengthens our influence across the sector.
• Lead accessible, robust and high‑quality research projects, generating insights that deepen understanding of the lives of people with a learning disability.
• Champion inclusive and co‑produced research, working alongside people with a learning disability and their families at every stage.
• Build strong partnerships with universities, research bodies and funders, unlocking new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
• Share insights across Mencap, ensuring research influences policy, campaigning, communications, services, and strategic decision‑making.
• Lead, support and develop your team, including Research Specialists and Research Assistants with lived experience, fostering excellence and inclusion.

Your work will have clear, meaningful impact, informing campaigns, shaping services, driving policy change, and helping create a fairer, more inclusive society.

What You Will Bring

We are looking for someone who has:

• Significant research leadership experience in the charity, academic or public sector
• A strong track record in building research partnerships and securing funding.
• Expertise in accessible and co‑produced research methods.
• Deep understanding of issues affecting people with a learning disability and their families
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, comfortable engaging with academic and non‑academic audiences alike
• A genuine commitment to inclusion, diversity, and Mencap’s values

If you’re driven by rigorous research, passionate about inclusion, and ready to lead a team that makes a difference every day, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now with and updated CV, applications close on 25th February, with interviews to be held shortly afterward.