UK Sponsorship Available Governance Facilitator

Job Description

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Sponsorship Governance Facilitator to join the Research & Innovation (R&I) Office at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust. This role is ideal for a clinical research professional looking to progress into governance and sponsorship oversight, working within one of the UK’s leading centres for cancer research and clinical trials.

You will be responsible for providing expert advice and regulatory support across a diverse portfolio of research studies—from funding and ethics submissions to study closure. You’ll ensure all studies sponsored by the Trust comply with relevant regulatory, legal, and institutional requirements.

You will work closely with investigators, research managers, support departments, funding bodies, and external collaborators throughout the research lifecycle, providing high-quality governance guidance while helping the Trust meet its responsibilities as a Sponsor.

Key Responsibilities

Governance & Regulatory Oversight

Act as a sponsor representative for an allocated portfolio of research studies, including CTIMPs, device trials, surgical trials, qualitative research, and observational studies.

Provide guidance to investigators on Trust sponsorship procedures and regulatory requirements.

Support preparation of study documentation for regulatory submissions (e.g. HRA, MHRA, REC, CAG).

Ensure studies meet internal quality standards, including peer review, risk assessment, and data management planning.

Coordinate sponsor review and approval of study amendments, monitoring compliance with SOPs and policies.

Contribute to inspection readiness, audits, and regulatory responses (e.g. MHRA inspections, CAPA plans).

Study Lifecycle Management

Oversee study setup, initiation, monitoring, progress reporting, and closure processes.

Track study milestones and ensure timely delivery of regulatory submissions and reporting.

Maintain accurate records and databases relating to sponsor responsibilities.

Participate in trial management and steering committee meetings as appropriate.

Liaise with contract teams, vendors, and research collaborators to ensure effective study delivery.

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

Engage with internal stakeholders (researchers, study teams, departments) and external partners (funders, CTUs, vendors).

Provide tailored guidance and updates on governance processes, regulatory changes, and study progress.

Present updates, lead meetings, and contribute to internal training initiatives related to sponsorship governance.

Communicate complex regulatory guidance in an accessible manner to support compliance at all levels.

Systems, Policy & Development

Use and develop sponsor information systems and project tracking tools.

Contribute to the development and implementation of SOPs and policies relating to research sponsorship.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of NHS research governance frameworks, UK clinical trial regulations, and global standards.

Collaborate on continuous service improvement within the R&I Office and wider research infrastructure.

Candidate Profile

Essential Qualifications & Experience

Postgraduate diploma (or equivalent experience) in a scientific or health-related discipline.

Significant experience in a clinical research setting, preferably involving NHS-based trials.

Knowledge of UK research regulations (including GCP, HRA, MHRA, GDPR, and governance standards).

Experience in writing and reviewing study protocols and governance documentation.

Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines independently.

Skills & Attributes

Strong understanding of research sponsorship responsibilities and UK regulatory frameworks.

Excellent organisational and time-management skills with attention to detail.

High-level communication skills—verbal and written—with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.

Confident in reviewing complex information and making independent judgements.

Proactive, professional, and collaborative working style with a positive, flexible attitude.

Desirable

Experience using study management platforms or data tracking systems.

Understanding of research methodologies and data management in clinical trials.

Knowledge of international regulatory frameworks or multi-centre trial coordination.

Familiarity with research involving medicinal products, devices, or qualitative designs.

About The Christie NHS Foundation Trust

The Christie is one of Europe’s largest and most respected cancer treatment centres. As a leader in oncology research and education, we treat over 60,000 patients annually and host more than 300 clinical trials each year. Our research facilities are ranked among the best in the UK, and we are proud to deliver world-class care driven by groundbreaking innovation.

Additional Information

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This role requires an Enhanced DBS with Barred List Check, in line with NHS safer recruitment standards.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applicants requiring Skilled Worker visa sponsorship are welcome to apply and will be considered on a case-by-case basis, in line with UK Home Office regulations.

How to Apply

Please submit your application via the NHS Jobs website by 16 September 2025. Early applications are encouraged, as the vacancy may close before the deadline if a high volume of applications is received.