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ABOUT THE ROLE

This pivotal and dynamic role offers a fantastic opportunity to develop and apply a wide range of transferable skills. You will work closely with the Divisions Manager, academic staff, research teams, external funders, and Human Resources, providing essential administrative, operational, and financial coordination to support a high-performing team of staff and students.
As Section Manager, you’ll leverage your analytical, planning, and communication skills to manage finance processes, confidently navigate complex data, and assist in the preparation of research grant applications using Imperial’s costing platform, Worktribe. You will thrive in the fast-paced and intellectually stimulating environment of the Department of Brain Sciences, where adaptability, initiative, and critical thinking are key to success.
This position offers hands-on experience, autonomy, and professional growth in a role where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to enhance your skills in project coordination, stakeholder management, and operational delivery.
The role is also an excellent opportunity for individuals with experience in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) or other sectors, such as Research Coordinators, Data Analysts, Business Support Officers, Finance Administrators, or HR Generalists. We are looking for candidates who excel at building professional relationships, learn quickly, and are eager to progress their careers in Higher Education.
If you are a proactive, driven individual ready to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.

WHAT YOU WOULD BE DOING

As Section Manager, you’ll take the lead in managing the administration of finance, HR, and project processes for research groups within the Department. Reporting to the Divisions Manager, you’ll be the primary point of contact for your teams, overseeing a broad range of operational, people-focused, and compliance-driven responsibilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support research grant applications through budget planning, cost analysis, and managing funder submissions, alongside post-award financial administration.
• Maintain diligent financial oversight, monitoring expenditure, reconciling accounts, and providing clear financial reports to academics.
• Manage HR processes such as staff contracts, consultations, and onboarding, ensuring adherence to institutional policies.
• Act as a liaison between departments and central services, ensuring smooth communication with stakeholders like HR, Contracts Management, and Research Services.
• Keep research groups informed by delivering key updates and policy changes in a clear, solution-focused manner.
• Provide project-based administrative support and contribute to process improvements as needed.

THIS ROLE DEMANDS A MIX OF TRANSFERABLE SKILLS, INCLUDING:

• Strong verbal and written communication to engage stakeholders effectively.
• Numerical literacy and the ability to interpret financial data for clear reporting and decision-making.
• Exceptional organisational skills to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Problem-solving abilities to navigate challenges and propose practical solutions.
• Collaborative mindset, fostering team performance and driving best practices.
  Experience with research funding frameworks (e.g., FEC) and systems like Worktribe is helpful but not required as comprehensive training will be provided. What’s essential is your ability to learn quickly, stay organised, and maintain accuracy under pressure.