Job Description

Lead Research Operations Manager

Location: London, Bristol or Manchester, 2 days on site per week

Contract: 6 months, scope to extend

Clearance: Active SC is preferred

Inside IR35, £675 P/D

Overview

We are seeking a Lead Research Operations Manager to support a government client focusing on improving and scaling research operations. You will operate at a senior level to remove operational barriers, streamline research practices, and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of research delivery across a complex, multi-service environment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead research operations strategy and execution across key programmes

Identify and remove operational blockers to improve research delivery at scale

Improve participant recruitment processes across complex and high-risk user groups

Establish and enhance governance, ethics, and research processes

Work with stakeholders to align solutions and drive adoption of best practice

Manage tooling, suppliers, and operational processes to reduce cost and duplication

Support the day-to-day running of research operations alongside the wider GDS function

Drive process improvement, automation and potential AI adoption where appropriate

Essential Experience

Strong experience in Research Operations at a senior or lead level

Proven ability to operate in leadership roles and influence strategy

Experience improving research processes, governance, and tooling

Strong stakeholder management and alignment skills

Experience working on large-scale programmes or complex organisations

Combination of Research Operations and hands-on research understanding

Skills & Behaviours

Strategic thinker focused on process improvement and efficiency

Confident leader able to operate with autonomy

Strong collaborator across multidisciplinary teams

Ability to work at pace and navigate ambiguity

Commercial awareness and financial acumen

Desirable

Experience within large tech organisations or government departments

Background combining public and private sector experience

AI or automation experience within research operations

Relevant academic background (e.g. HCI, Psychology)