Job Description
International Engagement Manager – Multiple Roles
- Salary: £36,650 per annum
- Contract Type: Open-ended
- Working Pattern: Full-time or part-time (minimum 0.8 FTE)
- Location: Hybrid working from Polaris House, Swindon, Wiltshire
- Band: UKRI Band D
- Closing Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025
About the Role
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is seeking skilled professionals to join our dynamic International team in a newly created series of International Engagement Manager positions. These roles are spread across three strategic areas: International Funds, International Partnerships, and International Policy & Stakeholder Engagement.
As an International Engagement Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering UKRI’s global research and innovation strategy. You’ll work closely with the nine UKRI Councils, international partners, and UK government stakeholders to strengthen the UK’s position as a leader in global science and innovation.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and brings strong organisational and diplomatic skills to the table.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting to a Senior International Manager, you will support the delivery of UKRI’s international priorities through:
- Strategic Development: Contributing to the design and evolution of UKRI’s international research and innovation portfolios, including funding programmes and partnerships.
- Project Leadership: Managing cohorts of international projects and leading the commissioning of new capacity-building and research initiatives, including peer review processes.
- High-Level Engagement: Supporting UKRI’s Chief Executive and other senior leaders in international forums, including preparing briefings, policy advice, and strategic communications.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Building and maintaining relationships with UK-based stakeholders (e.g., government departments, British Council, national academies) and international partners such as multilateral organisations (e.g., OECD, Science Europe, UN agencies).
- Policy Influence: Contributing to global conversations on research and innovation policy, including Open Science, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, and Trusted Research.
- Team Support: Undertaking ad hoc duties as required to advance UKRI International’s objectives.
There may be opportunities to travel domestically and internationally, depending on project needs.
Depending on organisational priorities, you may also be asked to support other teams within UKRI International, taking on responsibilities aligned with your expertise and experience.
What We’re Looking For
Essential Criteria
- A degree or equivalent professional experience in a relevant field.
- Proven project management and organisational skills, with a track record of delivering high-quality work under tight deadlines.
- Strong analytical abilities to assess complex issues and propose practical, evidence-based solutions.
- The ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt quickly, and work both independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent communication skills—written and verbal—with the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences, including senior officials.
- Experience in influencing stakeholders and building effective relationships across organisations and borders.
- A collaborative mindset with the capacity to work effectively with colleagues and partners at all levels.
How to Apply
We encourage applicants to use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in your cover letter to demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria. Your cover letter should not exceed two pages (A4) and must use a minimum font size of 11.
Please note: While applications will be accepted until the closing date, UKRI reserves the right to close vacancies early if sufficient candidates are received.
Benefits & Support
At UKRI, we believe in supporting our people as individuals and fostering a culture of growth and well-being. Our benefits include:
- A defined benefit pension scheme
- 30 days’ annual leave, plus 10.5 public and privilege days (full-time equivalent)
- Employee discounts for retail, leisure, and cultural activities
- Confidential Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Flexible working arrangements
- Professional development opportunities and a commitment to continuous learning
For more details on our full benefits package, visit: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
Important Information
UKRI is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and participates in the Disability Confident scheme.
To apply, please submit your application online. If you encounter technical issues, contact: recruitment@ukri.org
Note on UK Visa Sponsorship:
If you require visa sponsorship to work in the UK, you will be responsible for paying the relevant application fees to the UK Home Office before starting. UKRI may reimburse some or all of these costs after you begin employment—this can be discussed with your hiring manager. For more information, visit: Skilled Worker Visa: How much it costs or contact recruitment@ukri.org.
Join us in shaping the future of international research and innovation. Apply today and help drive UKRI’s global impact