Are you passionate about using research and evidence to influence policy and practice?
We are looking for a Senior Research and Evidence Manager to lead and strengthen the research and evidence function at Understanding Patient Data (UPD). This is a unique opportunity to shape national conversations about the use of health and care data and ensure public attitudes and concerns are at the heart of decision‑making.
Salary: £61,039 per annum plus £4000 London weighting if applicable
Location: Agile working with Leeds or London base including occasional travel to London and Leeds offices
About the role & UPD
Established in 2016, Understanding Patient Data (UPD) is an independent initiative, hosted by the NHS Confederation, designed to support better conversations about the use of health data to improve patient care, population health, planning and research. Working with patients, charities, researchers and healthcare professionals, UPD has built a solid reputation as a trusted source of advice and objective, engaging research and information about the use of patient data in the UK.
The Senior Research and Evidence Manager will:
- Lead UPD’s research and evidence function, ensuring UPD remains an authoritative and trusted source of insight on public attitudes to health and care data.
- Monitor emerging trends, evidence gaps and policy developments, providing strategic insight to inform UPD’s planning, influencing and communications.
- Design, commission and oversee research and synthesis projects, ensuring delivery to a high standard and proportionate to organisational needs.
- Translate research findings into accessible, high-quality outputs such as research-informed resources, briefings, reports, dashboards and presentations, working collaboratively across UPD.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with research partners, patient and public groups, and policy stakeholders.
- Contribute to funding proposals, partnership development and evidence-based project justifications that support UPD’s sustainability.
- Provide senior oversight of project planning, timelines, risks and budgets, intervening early where issues arise.
- Represent UPD externally and deputise for the Head of Understanding Patient Data as appropriate.
- Provide line management, mentoring or informal leadership to support capability building within the team.
About you
We are looking for someone who has:
- Substantial experience leading research and evidence work, from scoping and commissioning through to delivery and proven impact.
- Strong judgement and intellectual curiosity, with the ability to identify what evidence matters most and how it can be used to influence policy, practice and public debate.
- A good understanding of the health and data landscape, including public attitudes, policy developments and the perspectives of different stakeholders.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to present complex evidence clearly, build trust, and challenge constructively at a senior level.
- Strong judgement and the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-moving environment, balancing competing demands without losing quality or focus.
- A high level of autonomy and accountability, with a track record of managing multiple priorities and seeing work through from scoping to delivery.
- Confidence working in a matrix or cross-functional environment, building alignment and collaboration across teams.
For more information
Click here to download the full job description and apply. For an informal discussion about the post, Understanding Patient Data, and the NHS Confederation before applying please contact anna.steere@understandingpatientdata.org.uk
Application deadline: 20th February 2026
Interview date: week commencing 2nd March 2026 (TBC)