Group Head of Research and Innovation (R&I)

Group Head of Research and Innovation (R&I) St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Posted 12 December 2025 Salary: £72,921 to £83,362 a year pro‑ra‑ta (incl HCAS) Band: 8b | Contract: Permanent | Pattern: Full‑time compressed hours | Location: Tooting, SW17 0RE Job Summary St George's, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals and Health Group seeks an experienced and visionary Group Head of Research & Innovation (R&I) to lead strategic development and operational delivery of clinical research across London’s largest healthcare group. Based primarily at the Tooting site, this senior leadership role offers the opportunity to shape research governance, drive innovation, and foster partnerships with academia, industry, and regulatory bodies. Responsibilities Strategic Leadership: Support and implement the Group’s research strategy; represent the Trust in external forums; build partnerships with academic and industry stakeholders. Operational Oversight: Lead research operations across the Trust; co‑lead the Joint Clinical Research Office; develop and monitor R&I policies and systems. Governance & Compliance: Ensure regulatory compliance for all research activities; manage study setup, approvals, and sponsor responsibilities; maintain quality standards and SOPs. Financial Management: Oversee research budgets; support grant applications and costings; ensure transparent financial practices across research projects. Workforce Development: Promote training, career pathways, and inclusive engagement in research; support Principal Investigators and staff development. HR & Leadership: Line‑manage senior R&I staff; lead appraisals and resource planning; act as a visible and supportive senior leader across the organisation. Communication & Engagement: Foster strong internal and external relationships; deliver presentations; communicate complex issues clearly and professionally. Qualifications Essential Education/Qualification: BA, BSc Hons or equivalent experience at the post level. Essential Scientific Background: Post‑graduate life or clinical sciences (post‑graduate degree preferred). Essential Certification: ICH‑GCP certification. Desirable: Post‑graduate degree, Project Management qualification, ICH‑GCP accredited facilitator/trainer. Experience and Knowledge Essential: Experience managing research in a healthcare environment; knowledge of national healthcare research strategy; experience developing policies and SOPs; knowledge of research regulation and inspections; experience managing research finance; line‑management experience; knowledge of national research agenda. Desirable: Experience working with regional or national organisations; experience developing business plans and research strategies; experience of direct budget management. Skills Strong written communication for senior audiences. Proven leadership of multidisciplinary teams, managing change, delivering large‑scale research initiatives. Change‑management skills (desirable). Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require a Disclosure and Barring Service check for any previous criminal convictions. Employer Details St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Tooting, SW17 0RE – https://www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/ #J-18808-Ljbffr