Job Description. Research Communications Officer. Salary and Pay Band: Band G, Level 1 35,585 40,437. Policy & Research. Head of Biomedical Research

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1 Job Title: Research Communications Manager Salary and Pay Band: Band G, Level 1 35,585 40,437 Hours: 35 hours per week Job Holder: Team (Directorate/ Nation): Location: Manager: Direct Reports: Policy & Research MSNC, London Dr Susan Kohlhaas Head of Biomedical Research Research Communications Officer Part 1: JOB PROFILE MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB To manage the MS Society s research communications programme, ensuring the effective and timely communication of information on MS research to people affected by MS, donors, healthcare professionals, Society staff and other stakeholders. POSITION IN ORGANISATION Works closely with the Heads of Research and other members of the research team and will interact closely with: Executive group Heads of posts across the organisation Information and Education directorate Fundraising and Marketing directorate - 1 -

2 Operations directorate Job Description Branch and regional staff of the Society The post holder will also be expected to build and foster collaborative relations with: Research, clinical and allied healthcare professionals Related National and International research organisations Nick Rijke Director of Policy and Research Susan Kohlhaas Head of Biomedical Research Ed Holloway Head of Care & Services Research Katherine Gray Research Grants Officer - Biomedical Mital Patel Research Officer Vacant Research Communications Manager Holly Dorning Research Officer Care and Services Emma Gray Research Communications Officer Sarv Kaur Public Involvement Officer Stelios Papastylianou Research Finance Officer SCOPE OF JOB 1. Research communications programme development 2. Research communications management 3. Research Matters 4. Representing the MS Society 5. Staff management DECISION MAKING AUTHORITY Strategic decisions relating to the running of the research communications programme, including editorial management of Research Matters Budget sign-off up to 10,

3 Representing the Society at high profile external events, steering group and advisory panel meetings. QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS LEVEL Qualifications PhD or equivalent First degree in a relevant science discipline Experience Substantial experience in developing and implementing research communication plans at the strategic and operational levels Developing and sustaining effective relationships with researchers, people with health conditions and the public; including managing potential areas of conflict or disagreement Managing the work of others, ensuring the delivery of high quality work according to agreed timescales Experience in managing long-term, complex projects Managing a complex programme of work; including prioritising workloads and working to tight deadlines Experience working cross-departmentally Knowledge and Skills Able to effectively and appropriately communicate complex research messages to staff, researchers, healthcare professionals, people with health conditions, the public and the media A clear understanding of a range of research methodologies, including basic biomedical research, clinical trials and qualitative research Ability to develop creative solutions to complex problems Excellent written and oral communication skills clear, concise and confident comfortable presenting to audiences large and small - 3 -

4 Excellent interpersonal, organisational, negotiation and facilitation skills General Attributes Able to work in a team Part 2: MAIN DUTIES & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Developing the research communications work programme (25%) To lead the development and implementation of the Society s research communications programme of work. Assist in the development of the organisations wider communications strategy, ensuring that research communications plans are incorporated Manage interactions with the Society s Fundraising and Marketing directorate to provide up-to-date, accurate information to assist in fundraising campaigns and approaches to major donors To lead on and ensure effective delivery of the research communications programme by: o Advising on research speakers for national, regional and local MS Society events o Organising the biennial international research conference, MS Frontiers 2. Research communications management (30%) Managing specific projects and initiatives designed to enhance the research programme and communication of outcomes: To write and edit MS scientific material using editorial flair and judgement to develop an authoritative portfolio of evidence-based information To manage and ensure the prompt response to enquiries from people affected by MS, health professionals, researchers, staff and others about issues related to MS research - 4 -

5 To be the first point of contact for other departments and to manage the review and feedback on research-related materials that will be sent out by the MS Society To manage the development and updating of research-specific content for the Society s website including the Society s research blog To regularly review all relevant national and international published research To support the Heads of Research and Head of Communications in responding to media enquiries (press releases and media interviews) To liaise with experts and MS Society Medical advisors to assist in the production of evidence-based information 3. Research Matters (20%) As Editor, lead the production of the Society s bi-annual flagship research publication Research Matters To produce a publication which summarises recent advances in MS research (with an emphasis on Society-funded research) which will be of interest to people affected by MS, healthcare professionals, donors and other stakeholders 4. Representing the MS Society (15%) To represent the Society internally, nationally and internationally on matters related to the Society s research strategy and research programme To respond to requests for presentations from branches, regions and the media on MS research To represent the Society and its interests on research committees and research advisory groups To attend and present at MS Society events (branch/regional meetings) and other appropriate events (e.g. newly diagnosed forums, awareness talks), providing an overview of MS research - 5 -

6 5. Staff management (10%) Job Description To manage the development of the direct report staff in the Research Team and to ensure delivery of objectives and personal development Supporting the Heads of Research in the administration of the research grant round Other Duties: The post holder should be prepared to attend MS Society meetings in different parts of the UK including MS National Centre. Some meetings may be during evenings or weekends The post holder will be working in a developing environment and he/she will therefore be expected to undertake other appropriate duties as required for the effective operation of the MS Society Health and Safety: Responsibility for health and safety in the area under his/her control and ensure that he/she is familiar with the Society s policy statement on health and safety at work Equality and Diversity: Respect the unique contribution of every individual and work positively in an equal opportunity and diverse environment Implement, communicate and monitor the equality and diversity agenda throughout the MS Society ensuring it is embedded into the culture of the organisation - 6 -

7 Job Holder s signature Print Name: Date: Line Manager s signature Print Name: Date: - 7 -