REF 2029 Policy and Support Officer at Research England

Contract Type: Permanent (Fixed Term to Jan 2030 then redeployed within the organization) 

Location: Bristol (Hybrid)

Closing Date: 19 Feb 24

About us 

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions, with the most recent exercise concluding in 2021. It is a peer review assessment process involving submissions from higher education institutions across the UK. The REF is delivered by Research England on behalf of the four UK higher education funding bodies. REF is a fast-moving exercise managing a wide range of policy areas, expert panel members that span all research disciplines and types of research outputs. Key to our success will be close team working and supporting each other through peak periods. Joining our team provides a great deal of opportunity to learn and develop. 

Purpose  

The REF Administration Team is responsible for all administrative tasks throughout this complex, large-scale project. Key to the success of the REF project is team working, and while all members of the REF Administration Team will have individual responsibilities, they will need to work together to support the delivery of key tasks during peak periods. 

If you are looking for an opportunity to develop or consolidate skills and experience relating to managing multiple complex administrative tasks, supporting governance processes and policy development or project management, and building productive senior relationships, this could be for you. 

Main outputs and activities 

• Build and maintain relationships with key internal and external stakeholders at all levels
• Organise all travel and accommodation
• Organise and circulate relevant papers, briefing notes and action notes for meetings. This may agenda setting and minute taking as required
• Develop and maintain spreadsheets and databases as needed
• Produce high quality PowerPoint presentations in the REF style
• Liaise with panel members and secretariat staff on administrative issues and to ensure effective provision of administrative support
• Share meeting information via the Panel Members’ Website or via email within an agreed timescale
• Assist with equality and diversity data analysis
• Model exemplary professional behaviours, including flexible, agile and collaborative working, leading by example.

Shortlisting Criteria 

• Experience of quickly learning the detail of new areas
• A creative, flexible and positive approach to problem solving and the ability to show initiative and manage ambiguity
• Good team worker – committed to collaborating to achieving results, willing to assist other members of staff during busy periods, able to identify and respond positively to the needs of colleagues
• A flexible and positive approach to developing, maintaining and managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Interest in developing knowledge of the higher education sector and the REF 

Additional information      

Developing talent:     

We are committed to developing employees in their roles throughout their career. Learning and development plans enable employees to continue their professional development through training and development opportunities such as e-learning, classroom training and on-the-job experiences. We encourage our employees to share their learning across teams and organisations.    

Benefits:      

UKRI can offer the successful candidate:   

– Flexible Working       

– 30 days annual leave + Public Holidays       

– Access to Civil Service Pension Scheme        

– Various everyday discounts through our dedicated provider         

For more information and to apply, please visit our Careers Pages.