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JOB DESCRIPTION AND PERSON SPECIFICATIONPOST:Unit Chief Operating Officer (UCOO) DIVISION/DEPT/UNIT:MRCG at LSHTMGRADE:Up to ?80,000 per annumLOCATION:The GambiaTYPEFull-time, permanentGENERAL INFORMATIONABOUT THE SCHOOL The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is a world-leading centre for research andpostgraduate education in public and global health. Our mission is to improve health and healthequity in the UK and worldwide; working in partnership to achieve excellence in public and globalhealth research, education and translation of knowledge into policy and practice.Founded in 1899, the School has expanded in recent years at its two main sites on Keppel Street and Tavistock Place. Our staff, students and alumni work in more than 150 countries in government,academia, international agencies and health services.Research income has grown to more than ?180 million per year from national and internationalfunding sources including UK government and research councils, the European Union, the WellcomeTrust, Gates Foundation and other philanthropic sources.Our diverse research talents, skills and experience, underpin our position as a leader in public andglobal health. These range from the molecular to the global, the theoretical to the applied, theanalytical to the political. Our staff are conducting research in more than 100 countries.We have 3,300 staff based all around the world with core hubs in London and at the MRC Units inThe Gambia and Uganda, which joined LSHTM in February 2018. Our outstanding, diverse andcommitted staff make an impact where it is most needed - deploying research in real time inresponse to crises, developing innovative programmes for major health threats, or training the nextgenerations of public and global health leaders and researchers.Working in partnership is central to achieving our mission. Our strategic collaborations in the UKand across high-, middle- and low-income countries deliver health and socioeconomic benefitsacross the world, especially in the most disadvantaged communities.LSHTM is also a member of the M8 Alliance of Academic Health Centres, Universities and NationalAcademies, the Association of Schools of Public Health in the European Region, and the Consortium of Universities for Global Health.We deliver research-led educational programmes to future health leaders, managers andresearchers across the world. We have more than 1,200 face-to-face Master's and Doctoralstudents, 3,000 studying by distance learning, and 1,000 each year on short courses and continuous professional development. Our free online courses are studied by more than 70,000 participants globally.LSHTM performs strongly in various global university league tables. In the 2019 CWTS LeidenRanking LSHTM is ranked the UK’s top university for the proportion of academic research with women listed as authors, first in Europe for publishing open access research, and first in Europe and eighth in the world for research impact in sciences (for the proportion of its total publicationsranking in the top 10% of most cited research).In the US News Best Global Universities Ranking 2019, we ranked ninth in the UK overall and 13thin the world in the fields of social sciences and public health. We ranked 27th for medicine in the2019 QS World University Rankings.In 2017, the inaugural Centre for World University Rankings by Subject placed LSHTM first in theworld for tropical medicine research, second for parasitology and seventh for infectious diseases,public, environment and occupational health, and social sciences and biomedical.We seek to foster and sustain a creative and supportive working environment based upon an ethosof respect and rigorous scientific enquiry. We embrace and value the diversity of our staff andstudent population and seek to promote equality as an essential element in contribution toimproving health worldwide.LSHTM is one of around 20 specialist institutions that receive institution specific funding from theOffice for Students (OfS). This funding recognises the additional costs that LSHTM incurs because of its unique range of teaching, specialist facilities, and the scale of its contributions to national andinternational agenciesABOUT MRC The Gambia at LSHTM (MRCG)MRC Unit The Gambia (MRCG) at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine is a leading research centre in sub-Saharan Africa. Research is carried out by three major Research Themes (Disease Control & Elimination; Vaccines & Immunity; and Nutrition & Planetary Health) that benefit from the core‐supported strategic platforms and of the research services. Disease Control & Elimination investigates the interactions between hosts, pathogens and vectors; and evaluates interventions aimed at interrupting transmission and/or reducing the burden of diseases. Research is multidisciplinary and include a large epidemiological component complemented by social sciences and combined with strong laboratory and genomics support. Vaccines & Immunity studies the ontogeny of immunity as a baseline to inform the design of vaccines and maximise their impact. It hosts a portfolio of Phase 1‐4 clinical trials of existing and novel vaccines and employs cutting‐edge system biology methods to understand host responses to infection and vaccination. The Theme is also working on tuberculosis by examining host/pathogen interactions in adults and children. Nutrition & Planetary Health aims to understand the pathophysiology of diet‐disease interactions in order to accelerate the development of more effective next‐generation community and clinical interventions, and to build a major new program in planetary health. Two Cross‐Cutting Programs, i.e. Maternal & Neonatal Health and West Africa, involve all Themes, often in synergy, and underpin the Unit’s commitment to carry out research to decrease the current high burden of maternal and neonatal mortality in sub‐Saharan Africa and the Unit’s vocation as a Regional Centre of Excellence for Research and Training. A third cross-cutting Program, Planetary Health, is currently being developed. Besides the main campus in Fajara, the MRCG has 2 field stations, Keneba and Basse. The Unit, led by Professor Umberto D’Alessandro, receives an MRC core investment grant every 5 years, following the review of past activities and future plans. In addition, all research activities are supported by external grants from a variety of sources. The Unit has a turnover of in excess of ?22m per annum and employs about 1400 staff. THE ROLE The Unit is looking for a leader who can develop the Unit internally and grow the Unit’s profile in West Africa amongst both the research and non-research communities. Building on the new integration with LSHTM to delivery of transformational change, thereby ensuring the Unit is structured to meet the research challenges of the changing health needs in The Gambia, the West African region and globally.JOB PURPOSE The role holder will be an integral member of the Unit’s Senior Management Team, Head of the Unit Operations Department and a member of LSHTM Management Board. The UCOO will be a high profile internal leader, responsible for the effectiveness and development of operational delivery at the Unit. The UCOO must also develop an external profile, building and maintaining the links critical to the delivery of the Unit Director’s research vision, consolidating and building on the opportunities of the LSHTM integration and the development of the Unit at local, national and international levels, increasingly networking with other research establishments in sub-Saharan Africa. The UCOO is responsible for providing support and advice to the Unit Director in his leadership and management of the Unit. The post-holder leads and manages the Unit’s operational services (financial, administrative, HR, IT, technical and support departments) as well as ensuring governance and accountability in line with LSHTM and MRC policy and Gambian legislation. The role also oversees logistics, procurement and project management. With accountability for the budget the role holder must be excellent at planning, resource management and managing capital investment.The UCOO is expected to develop and maintain positive and collaborative working relationships with local and international scientists working within the Unit and externally, at African Universities and research centres, within LSHTM and beyond. The UCOO is the senior focal point for financial/administrative/non-scientific technical communication with LSHTM and is expected to monitor and ensure compliance with applicable governance at the Unit.This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced leader with a proven track record of operational delivery, creative problem-solving and transformational management to join the MRCG at LSHTM Research Unit at an exciting time. KEY RESPONSIBILITIESMANAGEMENTAdvise and support the Unit Director in the leadership and management of the Unit, and in making efficient and effective use of all resources.Support the Director in delivering the 5-year scientific vision and strategy. Plan and lead organisational transformation to develop the capacity of the non-scientific support functions.Work closely and collaboratively with the LSHTM COO and the appropriate Directors of Professional Services. Membership of LSHTM Management Board.Ensure the effective delivery of operational activities. Develop continuous improvement systems within the operational functions of the Unit. Foster partnership working within the Unit, while enhancing autonomy and self-reliance, across all sites at a team and individual level.Take managerial responsibility for all operations.Ensure and develop effective internal and external management communications. Proactively lead, manage, mentor and develop staff under his/her responsibility, using a supportive and collaborative approach, monitoring and evaluating results. Ensure, within LSHTM and MRC policies and local statutory requirements that arrangements for career structures, pay and reward and other benefits are optimal to recruit and retain the workforce required to deliver the scientific strategy.Provide leadership and management in all aspects of the technical, business support and infrastructure activities. Manage significant projects and the capital investment plan.Ensure the effective and efficient operation of the Clinical Services, Laboratories Services and other research functions. To include horizon scanning for technical developments, equipment requirements, succession planning and the management of service delivery. Act as a champion for initiatives such as staff wellbeing, mental health and equal opportunities.FINANCE, COMPLIANCE AND GOVERNANCELead strategic financial planning and maintain oversight of the Unit’s overall budgetary resources (both from LSHTM, MRC and external funders), including planning, monitoring and reporting, in line with LSHTM and MRC policies and reporting timeframes. Ensure high standards of compliance and research governance in areas including:Health and Safety Data Security and data managementRisk ManagementIntellectual PropertyLocal legislative and statutory requirementsResponsible for coordinating and maintaining business continuity plans.Support strategic planning for external funding applications and ensure subsequent effective grant management and oversee the research support office.PARTNERSHIP AND COMMUNICATIONS Represent Unit Leadership at a variety of internal and external fora with staff, national Government, academic institutions and the international sector. This will include deputising for the Unit Director if required. Develop and maintain a collaborative, cooperative culture, between research groups, cross Unit research functions and administrative and operational activities.Oversee the Unit’s communication and public engagement function. The above list is not exhaustive and additional other duties, commensurate with this senior role, may be required. The UCOO has the following line management/functional responsibilities Working in three campuses (Fajara, Keneba and Basse)Finance and ProcurementHR IT Estates and Facilities and Capital ProjectsResearch Operations (including Transport and Logistics)Health and SafetyCommunications and engagementStrategic PartnershipsBasse OperationsKeneba Operations GENERIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIED OF ALL MRC/UVRI & LSHTM EMPLOYEES This job description reflects the present requirements of the post but may be altered at any time in the future, as duties and responsibilities change and/or develop providing there is full consultation with the post-holder. The post-holder will carry out any other duties, tasks or responsibilities as reasonably requested by the Unit Director or LSHTM COO. The post holder will be responsible and accountable for ensuring all School policies, procedures, regulations and employment legislative requirements are adhered to including equality and diversity and health and safety.This job description is not a definitive or exhaustive list of responsibilities but identifies the key responsibilities and tasks of the post holder. The specific objectives of the post-holder will be subject to review as part of the individual performance review (appraisal) process.CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTSThe UCOO will be expected to support the Unit Director and in association with LSHTM COO to ensure effective leadership and management of the Unit. Responsible for the management and planning of operational services, the post holder will ensure compliance with policies and procedures, manage Unit budgets, and assist the Unit Director in planning and implementing the business strategy for the Unit. The post holder should have experience of delivering transformational change and be able to evidence strategic alignment and optimal service delivery and organization. The post holder will be a strong strategic and operational manager and will need to be highly credible leader. Direct reports and teams will look for inspirational leadership, so candidates should evidence staff development, creativity and autonomy. The UCOO will be based at the research facility in Fajara but will also spend time at the field stations. The successful candidate will be employed by LSHTM on UK Contract terms and conditions. Where appropriate the post holder will work jointly with members of the LSHTM Management Board, in the development and delivery of the Unit’s objectives and requirements.As well as the unique personal and professional opportunities this role presents, you will be rewarded with generous overseas allowances, accommodation provision, annual flights home and relocation support and other benefits including excellent holiday entitlement and a final salary pension. PERSON SPECIFICATIONQualificationsThe successful candidate should have:Essential/ DesirableTested by*A relevant first degreeEssentialAAdditional qualifications such as a higher degree or relevant professional qualifications in key areas of responsibilityDesirableABackground, Experience & KnowledgeThe successful candidate should have:Clear operational delivery experience, ensuring efficient and effective systems and practices are in placeEssentialA, IProven strategic business planning and project management experienceEssentialA, IAn ability to deputise for the Director and support his visionEssentialA, IExperience of representing an organisation at the highest level externally. This will include relationships across the Unit’s sites, as well as funding bodies and international research collaborators EssentialA, IDelivery within governance structures relevant to scientific research, the UK public sector, and comprehensive understanding of statutory requirementsEssentialA, IPolitical sensitivity and cultural awareness, with understanding of the particular challenges of research within a West African settingEssentialA, IExperience of working in a senior management role in an academic, medical or health research enterprise; a scientific backgroundDesirableA, ISkills & CompetenciesThe successful candidate should demonstrate:Proven senior leadership and management skills at a similar level, exercised in challenging situationsEssentialA, IDemonstrable experience of leading, planning and coordinating change and transformationEssentialA, IExcellent inter-personal and negotiating skills, with an ability to nurture internal and external partnerships across different sites and departments EssentialA, IStrong strategic financial planning and commercial focusEssentialA, IThe ability to present ideas and information in a clear and persuasive mannerEssentialA, IGood written and verbal communications skills including the ability to succinctly provide information for briefings, etc. EssentialA, ISALARY AND CONDITIONS OF APPOINTMENTThe post is full-time and permanent. The salary is up to ?80,000 per annum.?The post will be subject to the LSHTM terms and conditions of service. Annual leave entitlement is 30 working days per year, pro rata for part time staff. In addition to this there are discretionary “Director’s Days”. Membership of the Pension Scheme is available.Applications should be made on-line via our website at . Applications should also include the names and email contacts of 2 referees who can be contacted immediately if shortlisted.? Online applications will be accepted by the automated system until 10pm of the closing date. Any queries regarding the application process may be addressed to jobs@lshtm.ac.uk. Please quote reference MRC-MRC-2020-06The supporting statement section should set out how your qualifications, experience and training meet each of the selection criteria. Please provide one or more paragraphs addressing each criterion. The supporting statement is an essential part of the selection process and thus a failure to provide this information will mean that the application will not be considered. An answer to any of the criteria such as "Please see attached CV" will not be considered acceptable.?Please note that if you are shortlisted and are unable to attend on the interview date it may not be possible to offer you an alternative date.ASYLUM AND IMMIGRATION STATEMENTThe School will comply with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, which requires all employees to provide documentary evidence of their legal right to work in this country prior to commencing employment. Candidates will be required to email a copy of their passport (and visa if applicable) to HR prior to their interview and if appointed will be asked to bring the original documents in to be copied and verified before their start date. Applications from candidates who require sponsorship to work in the UK will be considered alongside other applications. Applicants who do not currently have the right to work in the UK will have to satisfy UK Visas & Immigration regulations before they can be appointed. Further information about Certificate of Sponsorship and eligibility to work in the UK, can be found at: ukba..uk/employers/points ................
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