Role: Operations Management (Apprentice)
Location: London (and able to commute to other NatCen offices if required)
Salary: £21,500 [Pay will progress in line with the National Living Wage rate set by Government]
Department: Analysis & Innovation Hub
Contract: Apprenticeship – 2 Years fixed term contract - Level 5
This role will give you the opportunity to learn how major national research projects are run from the inside out, gaining skills in project management, business change, and operations. By the end of the apprenticeship, you’ll not only have a nationally recognised qualification but also hands-on experience from Britain’s leading independent social research organisation that can prepare you for future roles in areas such as project delivery, operations management, change management, or research management.
The apprentice will gain hands-on experience in research innovation, coordinating and optimising our innovation processes, managing resources, change management, and ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of research innovation projects.
Responsibilities will include assisting with project management, supporting quality control measures, and contributing to strategic planning initiatives. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, and a keen interest in social research. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to combine practical experience with structured learning, paving the way for a successful career in operations management within the research sector.
The Innovation Hub brings together internal and external expertise to accelerate the creation of research innovations. This cross-functional Hub benefits from being based at Britain's leading independent social research organisation, which has pioneered a broad range of industry-defining research methods since 1969.
The Innovation Hub is a face-paced, friendly and creative place to work. The apprentice will report to and learn from the Innovation Hub’s Business Change Manager and also work closely with other members of the small core team at the Innovation Hub. There are also great opportunities to connect with colleagues across the whole National Centre for Social Research through the multidisciplinary innovation projects the Hub delivers.
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Assisting in the coordination and management of research innovation projects from inception to completion.
- Supporting the implementation of quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of project data.
- Contributing to the development and optimisation of operational processes and procedures.
- Managing resources, including staffing, equipment, and materials, to ensure efficient project execution.
- Participating in the Innovation Hub’s strategic planning and decision-making.
- Utilising AI and automation technologies to enhance business operations.
- Communicating with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate project progress and address any issues that arise.
- Maintaining accurate records and documentation related to project management and operations.
The day-to-day contact for the Operations Management Level 5 Apprentice will be NatCen’s Business Change Manager, who will provide guidance, supervision, and mentorship throughout the apprenticeship. The apprentice will also interact regularly with project managers, research teams, and other departmental staff. This collaborative environment will offer the apprentice a comprehensive understanding of the operational aspects of social research and the opportunity to develop valuable professional relationships within NatCen.
To perform any other reasonable duties that NatCen may require that are consistent with the broad nature of the job.
Technical Skills:
- Project Management: Ability to plan, execute, and oversee projects to ensure they are completed on time and within budget.
- Data Analysis: Proficiency in analysing data to support decision-making and improve operational processes.
- Quality Control: Understanding of quality assurance principles and methods to maintain high standards in research outputs.
- Resource Management: Skills in managing resources effectively, including staffing, equipment, and materials.
- IT Proficiency: Competence in using various software and tools, including project management software, databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Soft Skills:
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with team members, stakeholders, and external partners.
- Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify issues and implement effective solutions.
- Organisation: Exceptional organisational skills to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
- Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively within a team and across departments to achieve common goals.
- Adaptability: Flexibility and willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges and environments.
- Attention to Detail: Keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy and consistency in all aspects of work.
- Leadership: Potential to develop leadership skills and take on more responsibility within the organisation over time.
Essential skills and attributes criteria
- Initiative: Proactive in identifying opportunities for improvement and taking the lead on tasks without needing constant supervision.
- Curiosity: A strong desire to learn and understand the complexities of social research and operations management.
- Dependability: Reliable and trustworthy, consistently meeting deadlines and fulfilling commitments.
- Resilience: Ability to handle pressure and setbacks with a positive attitude and continue to perform effectively.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous in ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in all tasks, recognising the importance of precision in research.
- Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards and maintaining confidentiality, especially when dealing with sensitive research data.
- Empathy: Understanding and consideration for colleagues and stakeholders, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Enthusiasm: Genuine passion for social research and a keen interest in contributing to the mission of the National Centre for Social Research.
Qualifications
- Successful completion of A-Levels or equivalent qualifications, demonstrating a solid academic foundation.
- Minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C), including English and Mathematics, indicating proficiency in essential skills.
- While prior work experience in operations management or a related field is advantageous, it is not always mandatory for an apprenticeship role. However, any relevant experience, including internships or part-time jobs, can be beneficial.
- Must meet the eligibility criteria for apprenticeship funding and not hold a qualification at the same or higher level in a similar subject.
NatCen requirements:
- Maintain high ethical standards
- Demonstrate knowledge and awareness of all responsibilities in relation to maintaining confidentiality with both written and oral communication
- Actively conform to the legislative and procedural requirements in relation to the collection, management, storage and destruction of data
- Follow the requirements of our Operating Standards, and also to meet the requirements of all our ISO standards
- Other duties which may be required from time to time
This job description may be changed from time to time at the discretion of management
We are a Disability Confident employer. If you have a disability and wish to apply for this role, please let us know in the application questions below. This allows us to ensure you are considered for an interview if you meet the minimum criteria for the role. If you have any questions or need adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, feel free to contact us on natcenrecruitment@instant-impact.com
At The National Centre for Social Research we believe that social research has the power to make life better. By really understanding the complexity of people’s lives and what they think about the issues that affect them, we give the public a powerful and influential role in shaping services that can make a difference to everyone. And as an independent, not-for-profit organisation we’re able to focus our time and energy on meeting our clients’ needs and delivering social research that works for society.
