The British Academy – the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences - is seeking an International Programmes Officer to join our International team, providing key support in the delivery of the Academy’s learning and development opportunities for award holders.

ROLE PURPOSE / OVERVIEW

As an International Programmes Officer at the British Academy, your primary role will be to bolster the Academy’s learning and development opportunities for international award holders, primarily the Researchers at Risk cohort. You will play a crucial part in the day-to-day work on the operational delivery of various training programmes including organising workshops and organising meetings to facilitate skills development. Your responsibilities will extend to supporting the recruitment of researchers for these training programmes, while also maintaining and enhancing operational practices and policies. This role is pivotal in working closely and liaising with researchers at various stages of their careers, ensuring their smooth integration and progress in the training programmes. 

Success in this position is marked by your ability to establish strong relationships and make a significant, early positive impact within the Academy. You will be an effective communicator and dedicated team player, collaborating seamlessly with both external and internal stakeholders. Your self-directed nature, combined with a proactive approach to problem-solving, will be key in managing tasks such as planning, prioritisation, and demonstrating resilience in challenging situations. Attention to detail is paramount, especially in responsibilities like processing payments, taking minutes during meetings, and overseeing other essential operational activities.

You will have the opportunity to help to contribute significantly to the development of new training and development opportunities for researchers. Your involvement will not only facilitate the career advancement of these researchers but also enhance the Academy's reputation as a leader in academic and professional development. This position is a unique chance to influence the future of research and development in the Academy and to leave a lasting impact on the academic community.

OFFICE LOCATION - 10-11 Carlton House Terrace, St James Park, London, SW1Y 5AH

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supporting the delivery and enhancement of training and development opportunities

• Assist the International Programmes Manager in the development and operational delivery of diverse training programmes, ensuring they meet the needs and aspirations of International Award holders.

• Support the International Programmes Manager in the coordination of workshops and meetings, facilitating effective skills development and learning opportunities for researchers.

• Act as a liaison between the training providers and researchers, aiding in the recruitment and engagement of participants for various training sessions.

• Implement and refine operational practices and policies to streamline training programme delivery.

• Work collaboratively to maintain and update training materials, ensuring their relevance and accessibility.

Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders in the training programs

• Engage with researchers at different career stages, providing support and guidance throughout their training journey.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to align training objectives with organisational goals and researcher needs.

• Actively participate in networking events and activities to promote the Academy’s training programmes and initiatives.

• Provide regular feedback to the training providers and management on participant experiences and outcomes.

• Assist in identifying and addressing the specific needs of diverse researcher groups to ensure inclusive and effective training programmes.

Administrative support and operational responsibilities in programme management

• Assist the International Programmes Manager in the preparation and dissemination of programme-related communications and promotional materials.

• Handle administrative tasks such as scheduling, minute-taking in meetings, and maintaining participant records.

• Support the International Programmes Manager in the financial aspects of the training programmes, including budget tracking and processing of payments and invoices.

• Assist the International Programme Manager when monitoring participant progress and programme effectiveness, contributing to continuous improvement efforts.

• Ensure compliance with organisational policies and procedures in all aspects of programme delivery.

Facilitating collaboration and continuous improvement within the team.

• Work closely with the International Programme Manager and other team members to develop new training and development opportunities.

• Contribute ideas and feedback for the continuous enhancement of training programmes and participant experiences.

• Participate in team meetings and development sessions, sharing insights and learning from programme delivery.

• Support the team in achieving broader organisational objectives, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in roles and responsibilities.

• Foster a collaborative environment within the team, encouraging open communication and shared learning.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS

Internal

• Colleagues across the Academy

• Fellows of the Academy

External

• Award holders and other researchers

• UK National Academies

• Research institutions

• Training providers

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

QUALIFICATIONS

Undergraduate degree or equivalent experience

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Works and communicates effectively

• Is proactive in developing and maintaining effective working relationships with others internally and externally.

• Demonstrates a positive attitude towards helping others by providing appropriate support, using initiative and not waiting to be asked.

• Adopts a communication style appropriate to the situation and the audience, understanding that communication is two-way.

• Is sensitive to different working styles and views, adapting where appropriate.

• Is willing and able to compromise and negotiate, including to resolve possible conflicts.

• Handles difficult situations with sensitivity & respect.

• Communicates effectively with staff across departments.

• Promotes a positive impression of the Academy both internally and externally.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Demonstrates and develops appropriate knowledge and skills

• Demonstrates knowledge around the work the British Academy does.

• Is receptive to new ideas and change, adapting own ways of working as appropriate.

• Proactively makes suggestions for improving processes and policies.

• Is aware of own strengths and weaknesses and capabilities.

• Seeks and uses opportunities to learn and develop and is quick in picking up new tasks.

• Shares knowledge and skillset with others.

PROACTIVITY AND PLANNING

Manages time and resources effectively in order to achieve own and organisational objectives

• Keeps relevant colleagues up to date with workload and tasks. Seeks input where needed.

• Can prioritise tasks to meet deadlines and manage conflicting priorities.

• Takes ownership of tasks, including delegating effectively where appropriate.

PROBLEM SOLVING AND DECISION MAKING

Ensures good decisions are made through a rational and methodical approach

• Approaches tasks with a positive attitude and is not afraid to ask for help when needed.

• Identifies problems early on and acts on them.

• Anticipates conflict and thinks ahead to resolve quickly.

• Takes a flexible approach to their work, happy to take on different responsibilities in the interests of the Academy.

LEADERSHIP

Gives a clear sense of direction while inspiring others with vision and actions

• Is happy to support other team members during busy periods, whilst not compromising your own workload.

• Treats other staff members and stake holders with respect and honesty.

• Sets the right balance between referring decisions to the appropriate level and taking things forward without referral.  

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Hybrid working is available for this position, with the understanding that attendance at our London office will be required as dictated by job responsibilities.

BRITISH ACADEMY WORKPLACE VALUES

The Academy’s workplace values and supporting text are set out below. We share these core values with each other. They guide how we work together and with others. We demonstrate them through our behaviours.

COLLABORATION- We consistently work together to a common purpose, supporting each other, communicating openly and sharing knowledge. We are flexible and adaptable, receiving feedback constructively

CREATIVITY - We bring imagination and curiosity to our work, valuing learning, diverse thinking, and innovation. We are open-minded, receptive, and responsive, taking account of alternative perspectives

EMPATHY-We are understanding, sensitive, compassionate, and considerate, mindful of our own wellbeing alongside that of others

EXCELLENCE - We always do our best, without striving to be perfect, applying our expertise and experience to develop and grow

INTEGRITY - We are open and honest with each other, accepting personal responsibility and demonstrating loyalty. We are reliable and dependable, having belief that we will be transparent and clear

RESILIENCE - We are confident, bold, and tenacious, knowing when to listen as well as when to speak up. We respond positively to challenges and overcome problems

RESPECT - We are inclusive in our regard for each other, showing courtesy and appreciation. We treat people fairly and equally, welcoming everyone’s contribution and difference

APPLICATION PROCESS

We have a two-step approach to hiring, beginning with submitting an application through the Applied platform. This will be followed by a panel interview and may involve a task component.

Please note that you may be asked to reference any literature that you may refer to, as applications that are highly plagiarised and not your own work. e.g. ChatGPT, will be declined.

The deadline for applications is 6 March 2024, however, we may close this role sooner if we receive a high volume of applications.  In these circumstances we will give those who have shown interest 24 hours notice of the change of deadline.

Interviews for this role are currently scheduled for 21 March 2024 but this may be subject to change.