Senior Research Development Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

Role Overview

The University of Sussex is seeking an experienced Senior Research Development Manager to lead one of the Research Development Teams within Research and Innovation Services (RIS). This pivotal role will provide academic-facing support to enhance the development of high-quality research and knowledge exchange proposals and awards.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership: Line-manage and guide a team delivering professional research support services, ensuring efficient planning, development, and submission of research proposals.
• Research Support: Oversee award acceptance, review contract terms, and coordinate contract negotiation including due diligence, sanctions, and export license checks.
• Process Improvement: Identify, update, and enhance procedures to improve the quality, compliance, and financial sustainability of research applications.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as an advisor across RIS and wider professional services, providing expert guidance to colleagues and representing the University externally with stakeholders.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong leadership, organisational, and management skills.
• Ability to manage workloads independently while providing guidance to colleagues.
• Excellent communication skills and a creative approach to problem-solving.
• Experience in research development, grant capture, or knowledge exchange support.

Division Overview

The Research and Innovation Division at Sussex is committed to generating knowledge and innovation that positively impacts society. Last year alone:

800 bids submitted

247 awards accepted

The division’s strategy focuses on: People, Research Strengths, Interdisciplinarity, Integrity, Grant Capture, and International Reputation.

Why Work Here

• Beautiful 150-acre campus adjacent to the South Downs with accessible public transport and dedicated cycling paths.
• Flexible working arrangements considered.
• Part of a renowned, multi-accredited, research-led international university.
• Competitive reward and benefits package.
• Inclusive culture supporting equality, diversity, and career progression.
• More information: Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Visa & Eligibility Notes

• Work for this role must be undertaken in the UK.
• SOC Code: 2439 – Business, research, and administrative professionals not elsewhere classified.
• Sponsorship eligibility may depend on initial Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) date and salary p