Head of Clinical Research Programmes

British Heart Foundation (BHF) is the major funder of cardiovascular research in the UK and one of the leading funders globally.

For over 60 years our research has saved lives. We have broken new ground, revolutionised treatments and transformed care. But cardiovascular disease still kills one in four people in the UK. That is why we need you.

About the role

As our Head of Clinical Research Programmes you'll have oversight and management responsibility of BHF’s diverse portfolio of clinical research schemes and strategic initiatives. Our research awards range from PhD studentships through to major strategic funding investments, currently totally more than £400M in active research investments.

You’ll lead a team of highly qualified scientists to deliver our refreshed research strategy, which includes new and refreshed grant funding schemes, strategic funding initiatives and partnerships with external funding agencies. You'll also contribute to the evolution of our strategy to account for contextual and research changes.

Working closely with the Head of Discovery Research Programmes you'll oversee operational management of the science teams within the research section of our Medical directorate and will manage a team of Senior Research Advisers. You'll also oversee operational activity in funding schemes and engagement with the research community.

Working arrangements

This is a blended role, where your work will be dual located between your home and our London office.

At BHF we believe in the power of being together, so our colleagues on blended contracts can expect to spend some time in their office, at least one day each week, on average. The use of our office spaces is driven in part by your role and the activities you need to do. This may vary from time to time, so you will need to work in a flexible way to unlock your best work for our cause.

About you

You'll have knowledge of the cardiovascular research landscape and associated opportunities and challenges. You will value the BHF and the importance of our mission to fund cardiovascular science to enable longer and healthier lives.

You'll have a PhD in a biomedical science discipline or other relevant experience. You'll also have substantial biomedical research experience gained in academia and/or other settings, as well as previous experience in organising scientific peer review, including through funder or journal roles.

With previous line management or general management experience of a specialist team or area, you'll be able to develop effective working relationships with colleagues and external partners and be a champion of BHF values.

You'll have excellent attention to detail and accuracy skills, be able to maintain sight of the “bigger picture”, and to think strategically. You will have excellent written and verbal communication skills, will be able to make confident and articulate presentations to scientific and non-scientific audiences. You will be able to understand, analyse and interpret complex data, and then convey this information to others, some with a non-technical knowledge of the subject.

About us

We value and respect every individual’s unique contribution, celebrate diversity, and make inclusion part of what we do every day.

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, Igniting Change , along with our internal EDI group, Kaleidoscope, and a growing number of employee network groups (our Affinity Groups), help us create an environment where all our colleagues and volunteers can succeed.

Interview process

Interviews will be held on Wednesday 13th August, at our London offices, and will incorporate a short presentation.

How to apply

It’s quick and easy to apply for a role at BHF. Just click on the apply button below. All you’ll need is an up-to-date CV and a supporting statement, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the role’s criteria.

In addition to your CV submission, please outline, in less than two sides of A4, your scientific background and experience of research funding activities. Please include how you would manage a team of (Senior and) Research Advisers to achieve the refreshed strategy.