We are hiring: Could you be our Inclusion Lead?

Inclusion Lead (0.2 – 0.4fte)

*Deadline extended*:  5th Nov 2024, 5pm

Salary: We are happy to discuss the most appropriate model of employment for the successful applicant, which may be a secondment, where we would pay their salary for time given, or another arrangement.

 

NIHR ARC North Thames is a regional research infrastructure that conducts innovative research that meets the most pressing health and social care needs of our communities and health and social care systems. We focus on research which will directly improve health, the health and social care system and reduce inequalities.

We are committed to inclusion in all aspects of our work, including governance, patient, public and community involvement, research, teaching and training, and operational functions.

About the role

We are seeking a committed and credible individual, passionate about inclusion, to provide institutional leadership in inclusion to ensure it is at the heart of everything we do. Reporting to ARC Director, Prof Rosalind Raine, this senior role provides a significant opportunity to influence change and make a meaningful difference at a strategic level, in a supportive, progressive environment.

The Inclusion Lead will be a member of the ARC Management Board. They will be supported by a dedicated Inclusion Project Manager (0.4fte), the ARC North Thames’ established Inclusion Committee (comprising public contributors, research and operational staff), plus administrative support. They will work closely with our teaching and training Academy.

The role is available from Autumn 2024 until March 2026 initially (with possible extension depending on further funding). We are happy to discuss the model of employment that is most appropriate for the successful candidate.

Main duties

• Lead development and delivery of co-produced inclusion strategy and initiatives
• Initiate and effect change at a strategic, organisational level
• Promote best practice in inclusion across the ARC, and adherence to the ARC’s inclusion principles
• Provide thought leadership, strategic guidance, advice and support on inclusion
• Ensure alignment with NIHR Research Inclusion strategy
• Oversee evaluations of effectiveness of initiatives to ensure delivery of impactful change
• Lead development of training in collaboration with ARC Academy
• Ensure coherence of inclusion activities across the ARC
• Report on progress via the ARC Management Board and annual reports to the funder
• Promote and embody the principles of inclusion
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

About You

Experience

• Demonstrable commitment to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion
• Understanding of either the NHS, public health, or social care system
• Recent experience of delivering best practice in inclusion, and an understanding of the challenges and opportunities
• Experience of co-producing a strategy
• Demonstrable understanding of the barriers and impact experienced by underrepresented groups
• Experience of change management at an organisational level
• Knowledge of equality legislation and experience of translating this into practice
• Experience of delivering initiatives from start to finish, including evaluation
• Experience of working with external groups and organisations, including community groups
• Since our work is focused on the North Thames region it would be a benefit if you are from/residing in the region, though this is not essential

Skills

• A passion for inclusion
• Ability to interact with, speak to, and write for diverse audiences and backgrounds
• Ability to build relationships, influence and inspire others, at a senior and strategic level
• Ability to use an evidence-based approach, analyse and interpret data to report on findings, and make recommendations
• Cultural understanding and sensitivity
• Self-motivation, and an ability to use initiative and creative thinking
• Project-management skills
• Ability to prioritise and flex approach when required to deliver objectives and overcome obstacles
• Ability to deliver new approaches
• Resilience when things change and do not go to plan
• Ability to challenge bias

If you have a passion for inclusion, please send a statement of interest demonstrating how you meet the criteria, plus a CV, to Susie Edwards, ARC Head of Operations: susie.edwards@ucl.ac.uk (queries can also be directed here)