Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement PPIE Research Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Role summary  why this post matters

This is a leadership role focused on ensuring that the voices of children, young people, families, and the public meaningfully shape clinical research. You will lead the delivery of a five-year Patient and Public Involvement & Engagement (PPIE) strategy within a purpose-built paediatric research facility supporting early-phase and experimental medicine trials.

The role blends strategy, facilitation, partnership building, and operational delivery. You will help research teams embed inclusive engagement practices so that lived experience informs how studies are designed, communicated, and delivered.

What you will do

Strategic leadership

• Drive implementation of the long-term PPIE strategy
• Embed patient and public perspectives into research planning and delivery
• Promote ethical, inclusive engagement practices

Engagement & collaboration

• Facilitate workshops, advisory groups, and focus sessions with children, families, and public contributors
• Build sustainable relationships with community and research stakeholders
• Champion awareness of research participation and early-phase trials

Operational delivery

• Develop training and resources to strengthen PPIE capability
• Support research teams in safe, meaningful engagement approaches
• Monitor impact and continuously improve engagement processes

Communication & advocacy

• Translate research concepts into accessible language
• Maintain internal and external communications that raise the profile of patient involvement
• Present findings and recommendations to senior leaders

Who this role suits

You are someone who combines compassion with structured thinking — able to navigate complex research environments while keeping people’s lived experiences central.

Essential background

• Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience
• Proven leadership in PPIE or engagement programmes
• Experience working with children, young people, families, or NHS service users
• Project management and facilitation expertise
• Strong understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusive practice

Desirable

• Postgraduate or specialist training in research, safeguarding, or engagement
• Knowledge of research governance and methodologies
• Budget or grant experience

Core strengths

• Excellent organisation and workload management
• Confident communication with diverse audiences
• Analytical thinking and creative problem solving
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Digital fluency (virtual facilitation, documentation, reporting)
• Relationship-building and stakeholder trust

Working culture

The organisation actively promotes equity, inclusion, and representation. Staff networks and peer communities support professional growth and create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Candidates committed to inclusive practice and compassionate leadership are strongly encouraged to apply.

Safeguarding & eligibility

Because this role involves engagement with children and vulnerable individuals, appointment is subject to a criminal record check under safeguarding legislation. Skilled Worker visa applicants are welcome and considered equally.

Relevant UK Government & Regulatory Resources

These official resources support understanding of safeguarding, research governance, inclusion, and working within UK healthcare:

• Disclosure and Barring Service — safeguarding checks
• Skilled Worker visa guidance for healthcare applicants
• UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research
• Equality Act guidance — inclusive workplace standards
• Department of Health & Social Care — research and patient involvement context