Band 6 Research and Development Business Manager

Band 6 Research and Development Business Manager - Bristol

AWP Research and Development (R&D) are seeking a motivated Business Manager with an interest in improving the lives of individuals with mental health difficulties through research. This role supports the growth of research across AWP and offers an opportunity to develop innovative and creative practice.

The R&D Business Manager will provide a business support and development function, alongside financial and contracts management of research in AWP. The team consists of approximately 35 research staff supporting the development and delivery of research.

Working areas include novel treatments for psychosis, bipolar, difficult‑to‑treat resistant depression, and dementia.

This position is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must already hold the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application, as the organisation is unable to support sponsorship for this post.

The R&D Business Manager will support the Director and Associate Director in the smooth operational management of R&D, providing excellent administration functions throughout the department.

Key responsibilities include:

• General and specialist advice and assistance in the preparation, negotiation and execution of a range of research contracts and agreements.
• Support with the financial management of R&D budgets, including grant finance preparation, reporting, budget support and forecasting.
• Liaison with external Sponsors, funding agencies (including industry, charities, Department of Health & Social Care, NIHR), and other organisations to negotiate financial and contractual obligations – liaising with Trust departments as required.
• Management of the Trust's Research Capability Funding (RCF) calls for projects.
• Pre and post research award grant support.

The role is offered for a minimum permanent contract of 30 hours per week (0.8

WTE) up to 37.5 hours per week (1.0

WTE), which is flexible on the wishes of the successful candidate.

To promote, develop, and lead a research‑positive environment that supports high quality research by supporting research leaders, encouraging and building collaborative relationships with partners, and contributing to the development of research programmes.

To act as the first point of contact for all grant‑related and commercial enquiries.

To support R&D within the Trust through day‑to‑day provision of advice and financial information to researchers and the Finance Department, under the guidance of the R&D Senior Management Team.

To support the Director and Associate Director in smooth operational management of R&D, including the provision of excellent administration functions throughout the department.

Accountable for business coordination to R&D in line with internal and external cycles of business, ensuring timely, comprehensive and monthly performance reporting by R&D.

To undertake other defined project work as required.

• Educated to NVQ level 7 / Degree level qualification or equivalent qualifications / experience.

• Significant experience in a similar role – preferably within the NHS or Universities sector.
• Operational management experience including project, financial and line management.

• Ability to analyse and interpret specialised, confidential research management information.
• Excellent IT literacy, particularly in the use of MS Office applications, including Excel, Word, email and internet use.
• Highly self‑motivated and able to work on own initiative.
• Adaptable and flexible approach to duties to meet deadlines and the changing needs of the organisation.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.