Location: Brighton, UK
Salary: £34,132 to £38,249 per annum
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship: Available
Closing Date: June 5, 2025, 11:59 PM
Introduction: Join the University of Sussex’s Energy Demand Research Centre
The University of Sussex is offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated professional to join its renowned Energy Demand Research Centre (EDRC) as a Senior Operations Officer. With substantial funding support from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and key partners, the Centre aims to address the UK’s most pressing energy challenges.
This role presents an opportunity to be at the forefront of cutting-edge research while contributing to the UK’s transition to a Net Zero society by 2050. As part of the operational team, you will play a vital role in the management and successful delivery of the Centre’s ambitious research agenda.
If you are passionate about sustainability, energy efficiency, and driving impactful change, this role could be your next career step.
Key Responsibilities: Impactful Work at the Heart of the Energy Revolution
As a Senior Operations Officer, your core duties will revolve around providing operational and administrative support to the Centre. You will be working with a dynamic and diverse team, focusing on impactful and interdisciplinary research in energy demand reduction.
1. Operational Management
You will oversee the day-to-day operations of the EDRC, ensuring the seamless execution of research projects and administrative processes. This includes managing resources, providing operational oversight, and working to resolve issues swiftly, ensuring that the Centre’s activities remain on track.
2. Funding Scheme Administration
You will manage the implementation of the Flexible Fund, ensuring it meets the Centre’s policies and procedures while staying compliant with financial regulations. This task involves processing funding applications, tracking funding disbursements, and liaising with stakeholders to ensure smooth funding delivery.
3. Stakeholder Engagement
A significant part of your role will involve maintaining relationships with key collaborators, applicants, and operational teams. You will act as a central point of contact, providing timely and accurate information, and ensuring that communication channels remain clear and efficient.
4. Impact Facilitation
Supporting the Centre’s mission to create transformative impact in the energy sector is central to your work. You will work closely with academic, research, and professional staff across various partner institutions to foster collaboration, encourage interdisciplinary research, and ensure the Centre’s research contributes to a sustainable energy future.
About the Energy Demand Research Centre: Leading the Charge Towards Net Zero
The Energy Demand Research Centre (EDRC) is a world-class, £15 million initiative supported by UKRI, including the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).
The Centre’s core mission is to drive energy demand reduction research, creating actionable insights to meet the UK’s Net Zero goals. The UK’s transition to a Net Zero society by 2050 requires widespread changes in energy consumption across industries, transport, and households. Energy demand reduction is a key part of this challenge, and the EDRC aims to provide the evidence and tools necessary for achieving this transformation.
The EDRC’s interdisciplinary approach spans several key themes:
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Futures: Understanding the conditions needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a low-energy future in the UK.
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Flexibility: Exploring demand-side flexibility and how energy usage can be optimized across time and space.
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Place: Developing place-based solutions for Net Zero transitions, tailoring approaches to local needs and circumstances.
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Governance: Assessing policies and pathways that will help achieve energy demand reductions and decarbonization.
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Equity: Creating affordable, clean, and equitable energy solutions for all.
With over 75 members, the Centre spans 14 universities and numerous non-academic partners.
About You: The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a highly skilled individual with a proven track record in funding administration and process management, ideally in a higher education or similar research-driven environment.
Key Attributes
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Interpersonal and Communication Skills: You must have excellent relationship-building abilities, able to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels to foster a collaborative working environment.
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Critical Thinking and Adaptability: You should be proactive, able to critically assess existing practices, and suggest improvements to streamline operations.
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Process Management Expertise: The ideal candidate should possess strong experience managing complex processes, ensuring efficient delivery, high standards, and compliance.
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Organizational Skills: You must be exceptionally well-organized, self-motivated, and capable of prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced environment.
About the University of Sussex Business School: A Hub for Innovation and Sustainability
The University of Sussex Business School is a research-driven institution dedicated to advancing academic excellence in business and management. The School’s interdisciplinary approach offers an inspiring environment for impactful research in areas like accounting, finance, management, and sustainability.
By joining the University of Sussex, you will become part of a community that fosters real-world business solutions, contributing to global sustainability efforts. The Business School integrates practical insights with academic rigor, influencing both policy and industry practices.
Why Work Here: A Rewarding Career with Benefits
At the University of Sussex, you will find an inclusive, supportive, and forward-thinking workplace. We offer more than just a job – we provide an opportunity to contribute to significant societal change while benefiting from a comprehensive reward package.
Additional Benefits Include:
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Generous Salary: £34,132 to £38,249 per annum, depending on experience.
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Visa Sponsorship Available: We provide support for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship for eligible international applicants.
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Campus Location: Situated in beautiful Brighton, you will have access to green spaces and a vibrant local community.
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Public Transport and Cycling Benefits: The campus is well-connected via public transport, with a train station just a five-minute walk away. Additionally, the University offers a cycle-to-work scheme.
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Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, regardless of background or identity.
How to Apply: Get Involved in Energy Demand Research
This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in the energy sector while advancing your career. If you have the skills and experience we are looking for, we encourage you to apply.
Application Process
Applications should be submitted through our online portal before the closing date of June 5, 2025. Be sure to include an up-to-date CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are suited for this role.
For further details, or if you have any questions about the application process, please reach out to Ryan Giddings via email: ryan.giddings@sussex.ac.uk.
Further Key Information
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Visa Sponsorship Queries: Visa Sponsorship is available for this role, but only for candidates who meet specific eligibility requirements. If you have any questions, please consult our HR Compliance Team at HRcompliance@sussex.ac.uk.
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Closing Date: June 5, 2025, 11:59 PM
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Interview Date: June 19, 2025
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Start Date: As soon as possible
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Fixed-Term Contract Duration: Until 30 June 2028
Final Thoughts: A Unique Opportunity for Impact
The Senior Operations Officer role at the University of Sussex is an exciting opportunity to be part of a transformative project that will have a significant impact on the UK’s energy future. By joining the EDRC, you will not only contribute to world-class research but also have the chance to work in an environment that fosters innovation, sustainability, and career development.
If you are looking for a role where you can make a tangible difference in energy demand research while developing your professional skills, we invite you to apply for this highly rewarding opportunity.