Assistant Director, RSSD (Head of Research Performance & Systems Innovation)

University of Birmingham – Research Strategy & Services Division

Are you ready to lead transformative change in research performance and systems innovation at one of the UK’s leading universities? We are seeking a strategic and visionary Assistant Director to head our newly formed Research Performance & Systems Innovation Team within the Research Strategy & Services Division (RSSD).

About Us

The University of Birmingham is a world-class institution located in the vibrant and diverse city of Birmingham. As a member of the Russell Group and ranked in the global top 100, we are committed to delivering outstanding research and education. Our RSSD is central to achieving our Birmingham 2030 ambition to become a global top 50 university, and we are investing in exceptional talent to help us get there.

Role Overview

As Assistant Director, RSSD (Head of Research Performance & Systems Innovation), you will lead a newly created team responsible for research performance oversight, REF2029 planning and delivery, systems innovation, and research data analytics. You will report to the Director of RSSD and work closely with the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) and senior leaders across the University.

This is a highly visible leadership position, shaping all aspects of REF planning and delivery, and working with senior academic and professional services colleagues to ensure Birmingham presents the full strength and impact of its research. A key focus of the role will be leading the University’s REF2029 submission, heading an expert team of REF professionals and working closely with the Director of Business Engagement & Research Impact on the Impact element of the submission.

Alongside this, the role will drive forward innovation in research systems and data. You will lead a team that supports the development of agile, integrated, and digitally enabled platforms that support our researchers, and provide accurate and timely research performance data and analytics to underpin decision-making at the highest level. Systems innovation is at the heart of RSSD’s culture, and in this role you will have the opportunity to shape new ways of working that both reduce administrative burden and enable our research community to focus on achieving excellence.

Your work will underpin evidence-based decision-making, reduce administrative burden, and enable our researchers to focus on delivering world-class, impactful research.

Why Join Us?

At Birmingham, we value ambition, innovation, openness, collaboration, and responsibility. We offer a dynamic and inclusive environment where you can shape the future of research support and make a lasting impact. This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking institution at a pivotal moment in its research journey.

Apply Now

If you are ready to lead with insight, drive innovation, and support research excellence, we would love to hear from you.

For a confidential conversation, please contact our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson:

• Maliha Ahmed – maliha.ahmed@gatenbysanderson.com
• Alison Elton – alison.elton@gatenbysanderson.com
• For more information and to apply visit www.gatenbysanderson.com/job/GSe122413

Closing date: 9am, Monday 1st December 2025

Our Commitment to Equality

The University of Birmingham is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities and are committed to building a diverse team that reflects a broad range of experiences, skills, and perspectives.

Join us at the University of Birmingham and help shape the future of research performance and innovation.