NextNet Programme Grant Project Manager

TL;DR

NextNet Programme Grant Project Manager (energy systems research): Coordinating a five-year, UKRI-funded research programme exploring pathways for the future GB electrical power system with an accent on work-package delivery, budget control, and stakeholder coordination. Focus on managing complex research milestones, reporting, partner collaboration, and strategic meetings across universities, industry, government, and funding bodies.

Location: Oxford Road, Manchester, UK

Company

hirify.global is a higher education and research institution delivering interdisciplinary programmes with academic, industry, and public-sector partners.

What you will do

• Provide strategic oversight of research work packages and ensure timely, compliant project delivery.
• Manage budgets, contractual plans, milestones, legal and financial matters, KPIs, and project deliverables.
• Monitor and report on the progress of the programme portfolio.
• Coordinate communication with academics, partner universities, industry, government organisations, funding bodies, and prospective collaborators.
• Lead strategic meetings held online or at partner locations and ensure effective follow-up.

Requirements

• Relevant first degree.
• Familiarity with project management processes for large R&D projects.
• Demonstrable project management experience in an academic environment.
• Experience managing large-scale budgets, including planning, expenditure control, and delivery to deadlines.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills, including prioritisation and time management.

Nice to have

• Experience in a higher education research environment.
• Experience with report writing and research project management.
• Experience with dissemination and stakeholder engagement.

Culture & Benefits

• Inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches.
• Generous employer pension contribution.
• 29 days of annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure.
• Ride-to-work and electric vehicle car schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are available.

Hiring process

• Applications close at midnight on the stated closing date.
• Shortlisting and interviews are handled by the programme contact.