Research Development Manager

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and experienced professional to join the growing Kent and Medway Medical School (KMMS) as a Research Development Manager. If you are passionate about driving research excellence, fostering collaboration, and shaping the future of a new medical school, this role offers a significant impact and substantial career growth.

The Research Development Manager will play a pivotal role in implementing the KMMS research strategy, working in close partnership with the Director of Research and research support administrators. This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in a start-up environment, possess strong project management skills, and have a proven ability to build relationships and engage diverse stakeholders.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Role in a Growing Institution: Contribute directly to the establishment and success of a new medical school, shaping its research culture and trajectory from its foundational stages.
• Strategic Leadership: Take ownership of establishing and managing research and innovation processes, policies, and procedures, directly influencing income generation and the pursuit of world-leading research.
• Collaborative Environment: Work across multiple institutions (University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, and regional NHS organisations), fostering a truly interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to research.
• Skill Development: Gain extensive experience in research administration, policy development, grant applications, and impact demonstration, enhancing your expertise in the higher education research sector.
• Supportive Culture: Enjoy a friendly, open, and collaborative working environment with a strong emphasis on staff development and wellbeing.
• Attractive Benefits Package: Benefit from generous annual leave, excellent pension contributions, hybrid working options, access to university facilities and training, and a range of staff discounts.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Start-up Environment Experience: The role requires a passion for and understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities presented by a developing institution. Candidates with prior experience in similar "start-up" environments will find this particularly rewarding.
• Stakeholder Management: Success in this role hinges on your ability to build and nurture strong relationships with academics, professional services staff, external partners (including NHS and local authorities), and senior leadership.
• Strategic Planning and Implementation: You will be instrumental in translating the KMMS research strategy into actionable plans and overseeing their successful implementation, requiring strong organizational and project management acumen.
• Grant and Income Generation: A proven track record in grant applications and experience in increasing research revenue are crucial. This role offers a significant opportunity to further develop these skills and contribute directly to the school's financial sustainability.
• Leadership and Team Development: The position involves managing staff and fostering a motivated and high-performing team. Candidates with well-developed team management skills and a passion for staff development will excel.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Embrace a culture of ongoing enhancement, constantly seeking ways to improve research processes, governance, and overall research support services.

This role offers a unique chance to be at the forefront of developing a leading medical school. If you are a proactive, strategic, and collaborative individual with a passion for research and innovation, we encourage you to explore this impactful opportunity.