Executive Director NIHR Research Delivery Network

Executive Director, NIHR Research Delivery Network (RDN) – A Leadership Opportunity to Shape the Future of Health and Care Research

For visionary leaders passionate about advancing health and care research, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Research Delivery Network (RDN) presents a truly significant and impactful opportunity. As the next Executive Director, you will be instrumental in defining and executing the strategic direction of research delivery across England, ensuring operational excellence and maximizing the impact of vital research.

This is more than just a leadership role; it's a chance to be a pivotal figurehead for the NIHR RDN, inspiring and guiding research delivery staff throughout the health and care system. Operating under the umbrella of the University of Leeds, you will be an integral part of the broader NIHR senior leadership team and the NIHR Board. Your influence will extend to working collaboratively with Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) policy officials to translate government objectives, such as those outlined in the 10 Year Health Plan and Life Sciences Sector Plan, into tangible research delivery outcomes.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Strategic Impact on a National Scale: This role offers unparalleled influence over the future of health and care research delivery in England. You will have the opportunity to shape national policy, drive innovation, and contribute to making the UK a global leader in this critical field.
• Leadership of a High-Performing Team: You will lead a dedicated and competent executive team, fostering an environment of collaboration and achievement. This is an opportunity to mentor and develop talent while achieving significant organizational goals.
• Significant Budgetary Responsibility: The role involves managing a substantial budget, providing a platform for strategic financial planning and resource allocation to support ambitious research initiatives.
• Cross-Sectoral Collaboration: Success in this position hinges on your ability to build and nurture strong partnerships across both public and private sectors, including the NHS, life sciences industry, social care, public health, and academia. This offers a rich and diverse networking and influence-building experience.
• Career Advancement and Development: As an employee of the University of Leeds, you will benefit from a supportive academic environment offering extensive personal and professional development opportunities, contributing to your ongoing career growth.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond the professional rewards, the University of Leeds offers a competitive benefits package including generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme with life assurance, access to on-site childcare, and discounted gym membership, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Extensive Senior Leadership Experience: Candidates will need a proven track record of running large, complex organizations and operating at Board level. Experience in leading diverse networks within government, the NHS, life sciences, social care, public health, or academia is essential.
• Visionary and Transformational Leadership: This role demands a forward-thinking leader with the ability to drive transformative change within a complex, multi-stakeholder landscape. A passion for research and its impact on patient care is paramount.
• Exceptional Stakeholder Engagement: The ability to engage, inspire, and influence individuals at all levels, from frontline staff to senior policymakers and research leaders, is critical for success.
• Pace and Delivery Focus: You will need to demonstrate a drive and enthusiasm for delivering services and achieving outcomes at pace, navigating challenges and ensuring efficient progress.
• Commitment to Excellence: A deep commitment to providing both strategic and operational excellence in research delivery is a core requirement for this demanding yet rewarding position.

This Executive Director position represents a rare and exciting chance to lead a national organization at the cutting edge of health and care research. If you are a dynamic and visionary leader ready to make a profound difference, this opportunity is for you.