Head of Research Programmes Analysis, Development and Management

Head of Research Programmes Analysis, Development and Management

The Welsh Government operates name-free recruitment. The recruiting panel will not see personal information such as a candidate’s name and address during the sifting process. This policy is in line with our commitment to end bias and promote equality and diversity.

29/09/2026, 16:00

Advertising basis Permanent

Salary range or pay band Grade 7 £ 61,098 to £73,057

Work pattern Full time (applications are welcome from people who work part time, as part of a job share or who work full time)

Group Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy Group

Directorate Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales

Branch Research Programmes

Location (s) Pan Wales

‘Pan Wales’ means the post holder can be based in any Welsh Government office, subject to business needs. Roles based outside Wales, including London, are not available unless explicitly stated in the advert.

A list of the Welsh Government’s offices can be found on www.gov.wales/welsh-government-offices. Please note it may not always be possible to accommodate a preference for a specific office location.

The post holder’s travel from their home to their assigned Welsh Government office is considered their ‘ordinary commute’ and must be done in their own time and at their own cost.

The Welsh Government Office for Science, led by the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that government programmes, policies and decisions are informed by robust scientific evidence and strategic foresight.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead on the design, analysis and delivery of strategic research and innovation programmes. This is a unique opportunity to work at the interface of science, policy and public impact.

• Lead strategic partnerships with key research funders such as Medr (Commission for Tertiary Education and Research) and other national and international RD&I bodies.
• Advise on funding mechanisms, delivery structures and research translation, ensuring that science and technology investments deliver real-world benefits.
• Conduct performance analysis of Welsh Government, UKRI and European Commission-funded programmes to identify what works, what doesn’t, and how future programmes can be improved.
• Provide expert advice to the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales on science and technology policy, evidence generation, and programme impact.

Science is about more than discovery — it’s about impact. This role ensures that research programmes are not only well-designed but also deliver measurable outcomes that benefit society, the economy and the environment. You’ll help shape how Wales invests in science and innovation, ensuring maximum return on investment and long-term strategic value.

• Strategic Programme Leadership
  Lead the development and delivery of high-impact programmes, including the potential launch of a Technology Transfer Office in Spending Review 2026/27.
• Scientific Analysis & Reporting
  Analyse complex scientific and technical datasets, producing clear and timely insights to inform strategic decisions. Prepare technical reports and Ministerial briefings that influence policy and funding.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
  Drive engagement across the health and life sciences sectors, working closely with Welsh Government colleagues and external partners. Lead on marketing, publicity, and events to promote programme visibility and impact.
• Policy & Advisory Support
  Provide expert advice to the Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales, Ministers, and senior officials on research strategy, funding mechanisms, and performance outcomes. Conduct horizon scanning to identify emerging opportunities and risks.
• Cross‑…