Deputy Chair of Environmental Research

The Deputy Chair of Environmental Research at beBee Careers in the UK will drive scientific progress in environmental science through strategic research and funding initiatives. Responsibilities include developing strategies for research funding, engaging with stakeholders, and collaborating with senior leadership. Candidates should have strong leadership experience in environmental sciences, knowledge of UK research funding, and a PhD or equivalent experience. The role offers a competitive salary and benefits, but it is not remote.
Role Overview

This exciting opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact in environmental science, driving scientific progress by commissioning new research, infrastructure, and training that delivers valuable breakthroughs.

You will work closely with senior stakeholders, engaging and influencing them to build support and confidence in our delivery plan and catalyse new ideas. You will also work with the COO to ensure our science funding aligns with research infrastructures and capacity to deliver operationally, safeguarding value and driving maximum research and innovation impact and positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities
• Developing and implementing a strategy to secure our position as the funder of world-leading research and innovation in environmental science in the UK.
• Maintaining and growing our international science presence and partnerships, and building our commercialisation portfolio working with business and industry nationally and globally.
• Leading business and industry engagement across the organisation, building coalitions and seeking external buy-in to deliver environmental solutions to major economic and societal challenges.
• Collaborating with the Executive Chair, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Directors, and Associate Directors to achieve our organisational goals.

Requirements
• A strong track record of senior leadership in environmental sciences, including experience in research budgets, innovation, and commercialisation.
• Substantial and diverse experience of working across the UK science funding landscape, including knowledge of the activities and priorities of other UK Research Councils and Innovate UK.
• PhD qualified or equivalent experience, with a personal record of scientific achievement in research sufficient to gain the confidence of the scientific community.
• A deep understanding of environmental science and its applications relevant to our mission.
• Proven ability to lead and manage teams, develop strategic plans, and implement change initiatives.

We are looking for an accomplished leader with demonstrable expertise in environmental science and ambition to support and drive our purpose.

Benefits Package
We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional development

A list of benefits includes:
• An outstanding defined benefit pension scheme.
• 30 days' annual leave, plus public and privilege days (full-time equivalent).
• Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities.
• Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice.
• Flexible working options.