Lead Research Operations Manager

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)
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed