Job Description

Company Description

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR - www.nihr.ac.uk) is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care to advance the health and wealth of the nation through pioneering research. As the UK's largest funder of health and social care research, NIHR collaborates closely with the NHS, universities, local governments, other research funders, patients, and the public. By funding, enabling, and delivering world-class research, NIHR drives improvements in health and wellbeing while fostering economic growth.

Do you have experience of working at the interface between life science companies and Government / public sector agencies? Are you keen to contribute to growing the UK's position as a globally competitive destination for clinical research?


We are looking for a highly experienced individual to join the External Affairs team at the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to support the development and successful delivery of strategic partnerships with innovative life science companies.


As part of the External Affairs team you will focus on building strong relationships with companies, working as part of a cross-Government approach to building enduring partnerships with the life sciences industry.

About the Role

You will work closely with the NIHR Director of External Affairs & Strategic Partnerships to support and coordinate the NIHR's involvement in the cross-Government approach to developing and managing strategic partnerships with a number of high value life science companies. You will work with colleagues across the NIHR and within other Government and public sector agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to building relationships with key companies.

Key responsibilities

Provide a point of contact within NIHR for current and future strategic partner companies for planning, monitoring and reviewing plans to deliver the goals of strategic partnerships. Ensure that senior members of staff within NIHR and DHSC are fully briefed on all aspects of strategic partnerships before they attend high level meetings Coordinate responses to requests and questions from strategic partner companies with the most appropriate individuals across NIHR and other UK government organisations. Coordinate activities with NIHR Business Development and Key Account Managers to ensure that strategic partners are aware of the services provided across NIHR Work with the Head of the Vaccine Innovation Pathway Programme Management Office to ensure that strategic partners are aware of improvements being introduced for delivery of vaccine clinical trials across the UK, in particular in the areas of infectious diseases and cancer Coordinate and support the NIHR's interactions with colleagues across other Government agencies, including the Office for Life Sciences, Department for International Trade, UK Health Security Agency, and Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency for delivery of strategic partnerships.

Qualifications

Candidate specification

To be successful in this role you will have broad experience of working with, or within the life sciences industry, particularly in roles liaising between companies and Government agencies. You will need to demonstrate a detailed understanding of the UK health research system and the role that NIHR plays in funding and delivering research that improves the health and wealth of the nation.


You will be able to work with confidence and diplomacy when engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders at various levels of seniority across multiple organisations. You will need excellent interpersonal skills to establish and maintain productive relationships with relevant teams across the NIHR and within key partners across Government and public sector.


You will have strong project management skills, and will be comfortable juggling multiple priorities whilst delivering to short deadlines in a rapidly changing environment.

Expertise, Skills, and Knowledge

Required Criteria

Educational Qualification:

A bachelor's degree in biomedical science or equivalent professional experience gained through relevant employment.

Industry Experience:

Proven experience working with the life sciences industry, including roles in business development, government affairs, or similar functions.

Research Environment Experience:

Demonstrated experience within the UK research sector, including positions at research funding organisations, government bodies, universities, NHS Trusts, or charities.

Sector Knowledge:

Comprehensive understanding of the UK's health and care research landscape, including familiarity with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the processes for conducting clinical research within the NHS.

Programme Management:

Proven ability to manage, coordinate, and ensure the successful delivery of complex work programmes involving multiple partners and stakeholders.

Desired Criteria

Advanced Educational Qualification:

A postgraduate degree in a relevant discipline, such as biomedical science, healthcare management, or a closely related field.

Specialised Experience:

Proven experience working in a research funding organisation, policy body, or other relevant research-focused environments.

Key Competencies

Proactive and Adaptable:

A self-motivated, flexible, and enthusiastic team player who can work independently or as part of a team, actively contributing to a positive, solutions-focused culture.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Exceptional interpersonal skills, with a proven track record of building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders across multiple organisations.

Organisational Skills:

Highly organised with a keen eye for detail, able to efficiently manage tasks and meet deadlines, even in fast-paced, rapidly changing environments with last-minute requests.

Effective Communication:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated by the ability to produce high-quality reports and deliver impactful presentations.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities:

Strong analytical skills, capable of identifying issues and developing creative solutions that deliver mutual benefits for the NIHR and its partners.

Technical Proficiency:

Proficient in using Google Apps and other standard IT tools for efficient work management.

Additional Information

Salary & Benefits

Annual Salary:

62,900 per year

Bonus:

Performance-based, subject to company results

Annual Leave:

25 days, plus UK public holidays

Pension Scheme:

Enhanced contributory scheme

Life Insurance:

Comprehensive coverage

Healthcare:

Benenden Healthcare membership

Commuting Support:

Season Ticket Loan

This is a hybrid, office-based role requiring employees to work a minimum of one day each week at our central London office. Additionally, there may be a requirement to attend ad hoc meetings as needed.

Application Process

If you are excited about the prospect of joining our team and believe you possess the relevant skills and background, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV along with a 'Statement of Suitability' that showcases your key skills and experiences in relation to the 'Required Criteria' outlined in the job description. Additionally, share your enthusiasm for working with NIHR.

NB:Closing date for applications is 5pm 13th June, interviews to be scheduled from the 23rd June.

For more information or an informal discussion about the role please contact external.affairs@nihr.ac.uk

Company Statement

LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age or trade union membership.