Dean- Research & Innovation Horizon University College

Strategic & Leadership Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the Research and Innovation function, including setting priorities, objectives, and performance indicators.
• Lead, manage, and develop research staff, including goal setting, performance management, and identification of training and development needs.
• Develop and implement institutional strategies to grow internal and externally funded research in alignment with the University’s strategic plan.
• Identify and drive long-term research priorities, including the development of flagship research themes and interdisciplinary initiatives.

Research Development & Quality Enhancement

• Critically review and advise on research proposals of strategic importance, coaching faculty to improve quality and success rates.
• Support preparation and submission of institutional research returns, rankings, and performance frameworks (e.g., REF-equivalent or benchmarking exercises).
• Ensure efficient and compliant delivery of research services across pre-award and post-award stages.
• Oversee post-award research management, including audits, compliance, and reporting.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Advise on legal, regulatory, and governance matters related to research, including intellectual property, ethics, and risk management.
• Conduct and oversee risk assessments for large or complex research projects.

Engagement & Capacity Building

• Design and deliver training, CPD programs, workshops, and briefings on research funding, grants, and enterprise development.
• Communicate complex research-related information clearly through workshops, briefings, and one-to-one mentoring.
• Represent Research and Innovation on University committees and working groups, presenting reports and recommendations as required.

External Relations & Partnerships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with national and international research networks, funding bodies, and academic institutions.
• Promote collaborative research and industry partnerships to enhance external income and research impact.

Data, Analytics & Performance Monitoring

• Analyze and interpret research performance data, including KPIs, targets, benchmarking, and competitor analysis.
• Provide regular reports and strategic insights to the Vice Chancellor and senior leadership to support informed decision-making.

General Responsibilities

• Actively contribute as a core member of the University’s research leadership team.
• Undertake continuous professional development to stay current with global research best practices.
• Perform other duties as reasonably assigned, commensurate with the role and seniority.

Required Knowledge & Skills

• Advanced analytical, strategic thinking, and policy conceptualization skills.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication capabilities.
• Proven ability to manage complex research portfolios and institutional research strategies.