Interim Director of Research Funding and Contracts

The Interim Director of Research Funding and Contracts will provide strategic and operational leadership for the Research Funding and Contracts (RFC) team in Research Services whilst the current Director is seconded to the Oxford Research Management System (ORMS) Programme. The RFC team supports research funding and contracting, with associated research assurance and research funding systems, across the University. The Interim Director will lead a large team of talented and committed research support professionals, ensuring that outstanding service is delivered across the team functions. They will also support major research initiatives and partnerships, promote effective links and engagement with external research funders, and provide strategic advice and support to senior University and divisional research leaders. The role is available for six months in the first instance with a possibility, subject to confirmation of funding, for a further 18 months.

You will bring your significant leadership experience in the delivery of outstanding research support services and a strong customer service ethos to the role. Your strong communication skills will enable you to connect effectively with colleagues at all levels. You will be an exceptional leader and manager, with a deep commitment to supporting and developing colleagues to succeed.

Internal secondment opportunity for 6 months (Jan-Jun 2025 tbc), full-time The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic. Research Services provides comprehensive professional support for Oxford's research, engagement and innovation activities. We work closely with researchers, departments, divisions and other professional services colleagues, and a wide range of external collaborators and funders. Research Services strives to deliver excellent professional support to researchers and professional services colleagues and to be a trusted provider of strategic insight and internal and external influence working with University, divisional and other research leaders across the University. What We Offer As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees' wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
This role also offers the opportunity for hybrid working.