Public Engagement Senior Portfolio Manager

Contract Type: Open Ended. Location: Polaris House, Swindon, Wiltshire however hybrid and flexible working arrangements available. About us  The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) is the largest funder of environmental science in the UK. We invest £300 million each year in research, training and innovation through UK universities and research centres. Our scientists study and monitor the whole planet from pole to pole, from deep Earth and oceans to upper atmosphere and space. Through collaboration with scientific partners, business and policymakers, our science supports sustainable economic growth and improves public wellbeing. We are looking for a Senior Portfolio Manager to join the Community Engagement Team, to help us build a cohort of credible, confident and expert ambassadors to engage the public in diverse ways with environmental science. We aim to create hope for the future, allowing public audiences especially young people to engage with current issues raised by environmental science.  This role will lead and manage a portfolio of NERC investment activities that bring researchers and the public together. Ideally experienced in A strategic awareness of the research and innovation landscape within which NERC operates, and our stakeholders, and ideally bring relevant expertise. Excellent communication skills, and an ability to absorb, understand and present complex information persuasively to different audiences. Ability to build effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all levels of seniority, as well as strong negotiation and influencing skills, leading to positive outcomes. Excellent programme management skills and an ability to effectively manage budgets and resources. Strong organisational and time-management skills, and an ability to flexibly manage a diverse and rapidly changing portfolio, setting and working to deadlines. Self-motivated, be able to resolve complex issues, identify and present solutions, and work independently, whilst being part of a team. Essential Skills Degree, or equivalent relevant qualifications or expertise, preferably in environmental sciences. Working knowledge and experience of the research and/or innovation landscape in the UK and the science areas and/or communities supported by NERC. Demonstrable track record in negotiating and influencing effectively (both verbal and written media) across teams, the wider organisation and external stakeholder communities. Experience of partnership working and customer/ contractor relationships, and an ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and partnerships with a range of internal and external stakeholders at all levels, that result in tangible outcomes for the organisation.     A track record of successful project, programme and/ or portfolio management, including financial management and the identification of risks and interdependencies. Willingness to travel in UK and abroad, including occasional overnight (or longer) absences.   Benefits Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits including a flexible working scheme, a defined pension scheme, 30 days annual leave allowance, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer. How to apply: For full details on the role, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above. Please submit an application including your CV and a Cover Letter that clearly showcases how your skills and experience align to the requirements of the role.