About this role
Job summary
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Research and Development to be based in either our Middlesbrough or York office.
The postholder will have significant experience in health research management to provide strategic and operational leadership for research across Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust. This role will form part of the R&D leadership team to lead the Trust's research agenda, oversee research governance and performance, develop collaborative partnerships with university and external stakeholders, and drive growth in high-quality research that improves outcomes for people using mental health and learning disability services. The postholder will play a pivotal role in delivering the Trust's long-term research ambitions, in collaboration with key University partnerships and other networks.
This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route. However, sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements, therefore, we recommend that you assess your eligibility before applying for this position. Visit https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Main duties of the job
The Head of Research and Development will lead the Trust's Research and Development team, ensuring the safe, effective and compliant delivery of research studies and key trials. Key responsibilities include developing research strategy, strengthening research capacity and capability, securing external funding, overseeing research governance and regulatory compliance, managing research budgets and contracts, supporting large-scale research programmes, and building productive relationships with NHS, academic, industry, NIHR and other partners. The role also provides assurance to Trust leadership on research performance and quality, while championing innovation, knowledge mobilisation and the implementation of research into practice.
About us
We are the Mental Health & Learning Disability NHS Trust for County Durham and Darlington, Teesside, North Yorkshire, York and Selby.
From education and prevention, to crisis and specialist care --our talented and compassionate teams work in partnership with our patients, communities and partners to help the people of our region feel safe, understood, believed in and cared for.
We nurture the recovery journey of anyone in need of our help. In Our Trust, everyone has a say in how they are supported and treated because we listen to every person in our care until they feel understood. Our patients, their families and carers work together with us towards better mental health.
We're committed to new thinking that improves the wellbeing of our region. We connect with our communities and partners to get mental health care right, in areas that really need it.
Job description Job responsibilities
Please see attached the Head of Research job description for detailed responsibilities, organisational chart and person specification.
This job advert may close early if a high volume of applications have been received. If interested, please apply for this post as soon as possible.
Person Specification
Qualifications Essential
Health related degree or equivalent qualification Possession of a post graduate management /research qualification or demonstrable equivalent experience. Evidence of continuing professional and personal development.
Knowledge Essential
Knowledge and understanding of the key regulations for clinical research, including: Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations 2004 and the 2025 amendments UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research. Knowledge of research based policies and procedures.
Knowledge/Skills/Experience Essential
Have a proven track record of senior management and leadership in an operational healthcare environment, with responsibility for management of large teams and budgets Have a proven track record in developing processes and procedures to deliver efficiencies across a complex operational structure Have proven ability to manage by leadership and negotiation in a large and/or complex organisation Have proven experience in the management of change Have worked in research delivery and support at an operational level Demonstrate sound understanding and knowledge of the requirements of staff in the conduct and support of clinical research Demonstrate sound understanding of business management, including financial, within a healthcare setting related to research and innovation A detailed working knowledge of the practical arrangements needed to deliver large scale externally funded research programmes High quality analytical skills, with the ability to analyse and present complex data and interpret its implications High quality interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish constructive relationships with individuals at all levels including that of Board and Executive, and the ability to use negotiation and coaching approaches where needed Able to concentrate for prolonged periods whilst maintaining excellent attention to detail Able to analyse and respond effectively to complex issues, drawing upon available resources
Desirable
Postgraduate research qualification at masters or PhD level Accreditation in management techniques to improve care e.g. quality improvement or coaching A proven track record of brokering relationships at a range of levels across complex institutional settings
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Certificate of Sponsorship Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
Employer details Employer name Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
Address Flatts Lane Centre, Middlesbrough or Foss Park Hospital, York
Middlesbrough or York
TS6 0SZ
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.tewv.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)