Head of REF and Planning (Research Excellence Framework)

Location: London- Flexible/Hybrid

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Reporting to: Director of Research & Innovation

Salary: £64,331 to £71,834

About the Role:

A prestigious educational organisation is seeking a dedicated and collaborative Head of REF and Planning to lead its preparation and submission for the next Research Excellence Framework (REF). This role sits within a high-performing and fast-paced research services team and reports directly to the Director of Research & Innovation.

The Head of REF and Planning will drive institutional strategy and compliance, manage key workstreams, and build strong relationships across faculties, departments, and wide networks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate the university's REF submission process
• Manage multiple REF-related workstreams (e.g. code of practice, policy interpretation)
• Build and maintain relationships with key academic and professional stakeholders
• Translate REF policy and sector guidance into institutional strategy
• Analyse and optimise complex research data for institutional benefit
• Engage with peer REF managers across the sector to share insights and best practices
• Contribute to the long-term research strategy and post-REF landscape

You will have:

• Demonstrable success in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects
• Strong understanding of the UK research and policy environment
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, particularly at senior levels
• Experience interpreting research policy and driving compliance
• Confidence working autonomously and proactively across institutional structures
• A solution-focused mindset with high attention to detail
• Proven experience leading large‑scale, multi‑year projects, ideally in research or higher education settings
• Strong grasp of REF policy and ability to translate evolving guidance into practical, actionable plans
• Outstanding attention to detail, able to deliver high‑quality outputs under pressure
• Comfortable working in fluid, changing policy environments and building flexibility into planning
• Demonstrable track record contributing to income generation, research impact delivery, or improved institutional performance

Desirable:

• Prior involvement in REF preparation or submission
• Background in education, research institutes, or relevant public sector bodies
• Familiarity with systems such as Work Tribe, Elements, Power BI, or similar

If you are a strategic and collaborative professional, ideally with prior REF experience or a background in managing complex research-related programs then please apply!