Head of Clinical Research Performance

Job Summary

This fixed‑term post is until 19 July 2027. Until 29 January 2027 it will focus exclusively on a performance programme to improve the speed of clinical research set‑up at The Royal Marsden, addressing the UK Government mandate to bring timelines down to 150 days or less. From 29 January 2027 to 19 July 2027 the role will also cover performance activities and take on selected duties of the Deputy Director, Research Operations (Core Services), including line management of eight senior staff across quality assurance, tissue services, software, laboratory, research database, business intelligence and the secretariat.

Responsibilities

As senior responsible person for set‑up and recruitment timelines you will:

• Develop, implement and oversee a radical short‑term programme to achieve 100 % compliance with 60‑day set‑up, 30‑day first‑recruit and overall 90‑day set‑up metrics.
• Ensure the Royal Marsden becomes the first NHS Lead Site to open and recruit where applicable.
• Increase UK, European and global first‑patient recruitment rates.
• Lead cross‑organisational engagement, negotiation and influence to secure resources and drive efficiency.
• Act as senior escalation point, troubleshoot and mitigate risks, and report outcomes to Board level.
• Lead a review of each study to capture learning lessons and improve future performance.

Education & Qualifications

• Higher degree (e.g., MSc) in a relevant subject.
• Recognised Good Clinical Practice certification.
• Commitment to continued professional development.
• People management and leadership qualification.

Experience

• Extensive experience in clinical research governance or operations, particularly in the set‑up of externally sponsored studies.
• Proven track record in managing and developing high‑performing teams.
• Experience working with multidisciplinary staff across varied seniority levels.
• Demonstrated ability to manage change and build a culture of customer service.
• Experience delivering training sessions and working across organisations.

Skills & Knowledge

• Exceptional understanding of the NHS clinical research performance management framework and metrics.
• Ability to work unsupervised, prioritise workload, meet deadlines and exercise initiative.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check to confirm no disqualifying criminal convictions.