Lead Research Operations Manager

Our Central Government client are seeking a Lead Research Operations Manager on an initial 6 month contract. You may come from a Research Operations or user research background. Most importantly, you will have experience in proving research operations and enabling teams to deliver user‑centered work at pace, with a proven track record of delivering impactful outcomes. You will bring a strong understanding of user research practice, ensuring that any operational improvements are grounded in the needs of researchers and support effective collaboration. You will demonstrate: Proven experience leading systemic change in Research Operations, shaping strategy and driving improvements that scale high‑quality, user‑centred research across teams A strong understanding of Research Operations in agile environments, including participant recruitment, tools, governance, and knowledge management Solid grounding in user research methods and practice, enabling you to design and embed operational approaches that work effectively for research teams Experience identifying and resolving operational blockers to improve delivery speed and effectiveness Strong delivery, prioritisation, and stakeholder management skills Experience working with research governance and GDPR, with the ability to balance pace with appropriate rigour Experience working with suppliers, recruitment agencies, or research platforms A pragmatic, outcome-focused mindset, with the ability to implement improvements quickly and effectively NB; Active SC/recently lapsed SC required for this assignment. To apply, please submit latest CV