Head of Research and Innovation

As Head of Research and Innovation you are responsible for leading the teams that gather, analyse, interpret and recommend actions based on sound science. You will also be responsible for the well–being of the people who deliver on this mandate.

Client Details

RCOT, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists have championed the profession and the people behind it for over 90 years; and today are thriving with over 35,000 members.

Their new and exciting strategy will enable them to reach more people and create wider positive impacts – achieving life–changing breakthroughs for their members, for the people they support and for society through occupational therapy.

RCOT offers a supportive and inclusive working environment that enables you to learn, develop and be the best you can in a role that suits you. Their ambition is to have a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities they serve. They don't only embrace diversity, they celebrate it, nurture it and support their staff in realising their true potential. RCOT welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are keen to see applications from people with lived experience of disability or long–term health conditions, from minoritised ethnic and LGBTQIA+ communities.

The Practice and Innovation Directorate at RCOT ensures they, and the profession, have a strong voice and international presence. They work with members, external stakeholders and partners to strengthen the evidence base that shows the impact of occupational therapy. We champion a culture of research and service innovation; and drive forward and support undergraduate education pathways to build a resilient and sustainable workforce. The Head of Research and Innovation leads a professional team within this Directorate

Description

In collaboration with the Director of Practice and Innovation, developing, communicating and managing the Directorate's strategy for research and Innovation, ensuring alignment with other teams in the Directorate and organisation.

Lead on the promotion and dissemination of best practice, evidence and examples of innovation across the UK; providing informed advice, standards, strategies and timely services

Promoting a culture of research across the profession, & lead on research activities

Oversee the development of resources and opportunities for members to maximise digital literacy and transformation of services.

Ensure the timely development and production of communications and resources that promote excellence and high standards in practice

Lead the team to build an evidence base that shows the impact of occupational therapy and makes the case for the profession's place in health, education and social care.

Prepare annual budgetary submissions in consultation with the Director and other senior colleagues.

Manage budgets and contracts to ensure cost effective and timely delivery of agreed services and projects.

Work in partnership with the Director developing and maintaining effective working relationships with key senior internal and external partners. Proactively developing strategic alliances with other relevant organisations.

Grow their digital library and information services, providing support and expertise across RCOT to ensure evidence underpins RCOT's activities.

Develop partnerships with digital and assistive technology organisations, specialists and associations to showcase the expertise and potential role of occupational therapy in design and accessibility of products and tools.

Oversee the management of Boards, committees, advisory and working groups to guide their development and delivery of innovation and research strategies.

Oversee the management of their Research Foundation, donations and research awards.

Work closely with Movement Building & Membership and Brand & Marketing to build up and support RCOT members and people with lived experience to act as their ambassadors, experts and media representatives.

Profile

Occupational therapy qualifications and background with evidence of post graduate learning at master's level.

Experienced manager in Education, Health or Social Care environments you'll be able to demonstrate that you can implement service level improvements and quality assurance.

Ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders from start to finish and translate strategic initiatives into operational plans.

Interpret research and complex documents on legislation and policy related to occupational therapy practice.

Highly developed written and verbal communication skills and confident in presentation and report–writing

Ability to work as part of a team and to collaborate effectively to provide matrix leadership and thought leadership

Confident and proficient in using digital technologies to work collaboratively and productively in a hybrid working model, championing and promoting new ways of working.

Willing to travel and stay overnight when required.

Highly developed and confident interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence colleagues at all levels and provide advice and guidance to senior leaders

Have an enthusiasm to live and model RCOT values across all areas of work.

Demonstrate passion for embedding environmental sustainability principles across all areas of work.

High levels of self–motivation, enthusiasm and passion for the professional field you represent.

Possess a passion for including equity, diversity and belonging principles across all areas of work

Job Offer

Rewards and benefits are just one part of the reason RCOT is a great place to work. They offer significant benefits, including private healthcare, Christmas closure and an Employee Assistance Programme. In addition, they offer a hybrid working model which offers a blend of home and office–based working.