Head of Research Operations

Department Overview

The University has a bold vision to build upon the success of REF
2021 by continuing to enhance research performance across awards, outputs, income, and impact. At the core of this endeavour lies the Research Strategy & Services Division (RSSD), a newly established department focused on catalysing the University’s Birmingham 2030 research ambitions.

The Head of Research Operations (College of Medicine & Health) is a pivotal role within the RSSD, responsible for leading a CMH research support function, working in close collaboration with the wider Division and academic and Professional Services colleagues in the College.

Reporting to the Assistant Director RSSD, the Head of Research Operations will lead a team of expert practitioners that deliver a portfolio of research support activities, including research development & facilitation, proposal drafting, budget preparation, compliance, and contracts negotiation. The successful candidate will provide visible and proactive leadership, ensuring regular face‑to‑face engagement to build trust, foster collaboration, and offer hands‑on support to team members.

They will create an environment where individuals feel valued and empowered, balancing strategic oversight with day‑to‑day guidance. Being present and accessible, the leader will strengthen team cohesion and drive performance. In addition, they will develop strong internal and external networks across the University and beyond, positioning the team as a trusted partner in delivering high‑quality research support.

Reporting to the Assistant Director RSSD, the Head of Research Operations leads one of our four College Hub Research Support teams, encompassing all aspects of pre‑award research support, due diligence, grants set up, and contracts.

The Head of Research Operations is a core member of a wider, integrated research leadership team that works collectively across the full lifecycle of research activity. Working in close partnership with the Head of Research Strategy & Development, the Head of Post Award, the Trusted Research team, and the Research Ethics, Governance and Integrity team, the role contributes to a seamless, end‑to‑end approach to research support that brings together strategic development, operational delivery, and proportionate oversight of risk and compliance.

This collaborative environment provides significant scope to shape creative and effective approaches across the research pathway — from proposal development through to the management of complex awards and contracts — while contributing to the design of efficient, sustainable processes and systems. As part of a supportive and high‑performing leadership community, the role also offers strong opportunities for professional growth and career development, alongside the chance to make a tangible institutional impact.

The RSSD is committed to a collaborative and open culture, and the Head of Research Operations will benefit from this and will embed this same culture within their College Hub Research Support team to ensure that colleagues are supported and work collectively. They will form part of the RSSD College Hubs Senior Leadership Team and the Extended Leadership Group for the wider Research Strategy & Services Division.

Being approachable and open to staff within the RSSD and the wider University is a key element of the role, reflecting the collaborative approach that is essential to effective research support. Key internal stakeholders include academics, College Heads of Department, School Heads of Research and College Deputy Director of Operations for Research Support. The Head of Research Operations will also have the opportunity to develop relationships with strategic partners, funders and HEIs from across the sector.

• Working with your Research Support Managers, lead a Research Support Team of c25 research support professionals to effectively manage and agree prioritisation of workload across all aspects of pre‑award research support including: research development; research facilitation and support for proposal drafting; budget preparation and costing; compliance with funder…