Project Director: Reviews and Evidence Synthesis

Role Description

York Health Economics Consortium (YHEC) is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join our Reviews and Evidence Synthesis (RES) team as a Project Director.

Reporting to the Director of RES, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining YHEC’s reputation for academic rigour and real-world impact. You will oversee a diverse portfolio of literature-based research and consultancy projects, drive business development, and lead a multidisciplinary team of researchers. This role offers a unique blend of strategic leadership and operational management within a world-leading consultancy environment.

The Role

In this role, you will lead and execute high-quality medical writing activities across a diverse range of projects. You will be responsible for translating complex data into clear, compelling narratives for a variety of audiences, including regulatory bodies (NICE/SMC/NCPE), clinicians, and payers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Leadership: Direct multiple project teams to deliver high-quality evidence synthesis work (including systematic, rapid, and scoping reviews) within strict timelines and budgets.
• Business Development: Proactively identify new market opportunities, generate income through successful proposals and tenders, and grow a network of contacts across the private and public health sectors.
• Client Management: Act as the primary point of contact for clients, managing expectations from proposal to completion and maintaining long-term professional relationships.
• Strategic Growth: Contribute to the RES leadership team by setting operational priorities and implementing systems to improve team performance.
• Innovation: Stay at the forefront of the field by integrating innovative methods, including advances in automation and AI, into our review processes.
• Mentorship: Oversee the learning and development of RES team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Qualifications: A post-graduate qualification in a relevant field (or a first degree with significant equivalent experience in research/consultancy).
• Experience: Proven track record of directing systematic reviews, evidence synthesis, or guideline projects to tight deadlines.
• Commercial Acumen: Significant experience in business development, income generation, and delivering commercially focused research services at a senior level.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary teams and influence stakeholders through strategic thinking.
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the stature and credibility to represent YHEC at high-level client meetings and conferences.

Why Join YHEC?

• Professional Development: An active career development programme and support for publishing work in academic journals.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and remote/hybrid options.
• University Perks: Access to the full range of facilities at the University of York, including campus resources and discounted gym memberships.
• Culture: A proactive approach to wellbeing, including a social committee and annual charity fundraising activities.

Informal Enquiries

Informal enquiries are encouraged to Rachael McCool, Director of Reviews & Evidence Synthesis (rachael.mccool@york.ac.uk), Matthew Taylor, CEO (matthew.taylor@york.ac.uk) or Louise Carr, Business Manager (louise.carr@york.ac.uk).