Directorate Support Officer (HDRC Manchester)

Working hours: 35 hours per week - full timeContract type: Time limited until 31 March 2030Closing date: 11.59pm, 5 November 2025Interview method: in personThis Role Is Subject To2 references - where possible, we require 3 years' historyAre you naturally inquisitive and keen to use data and research to make a real difference in people’s lives? Do you want to develop your analytical skills in a supportive and forward-thinking team? If so, this could be the opportunity for you.We’re looking for two Directorate Support Officers to join the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) Manchester, hosted by the Performance, Research and Intelligence (PRI) service. This is a fantastic chance to contribute to a high-profile programme that helps shape decisions across Manchester City Council using evidence and insight.There are two roles available; both are fixed term until 31st March 2030. These roles will all join our new HDRC Manchester team and will have the opportunity to work with analysts from across PRI, from partner organisations and within the community.The NIHR funds the Health Determinants Research Collaborations (HDRCs) to boost research capacity and capability within local government. HDRCs aim to embed a culture of using evidence to improve decision-making on health and health inequalities. The programme involves local authorities working with university partners to build collaborative infrastructure, combining local government knowledge with academic research skills. At present there are 30 HDRCs across the country.The mission for HDRC Manchester is "to put communities at the heart of policy". This means:Local residents are more able to directly influence decisions about their area through greater control and influence over research activities and learning new skills and experienceImproved decision making and impact across the City Council and partner organisations, through officer and member engagement and clear governance arrangementsInvestment will turbo-charge what we are already doing so that it becomes more consistent and more impactfulBetter, more ‘real life’ research, improving our understanding of the wider determinants of health at a local levelDissemination of learning through Core Cities, GM, government, academia, VCSEF sector Sustainable legacy of working in this way beyond the investment To do this the HDRC Manchester team will focus on the delivery of three main pillars: Culture Change; Research; and Methods. The Directorate Support Officer will work with HDRC Manchester Senior Analysts on cross-cutting research priorities, building and demonstrating qualitative, quantitative and spatial evaluation and analysis skills. They contribute to the development of guidance, toolkits, training, and work directly with residents and members of the community.The HDRC Manchester Team is embedded within Manchester City Council’s Policy, Performance and Reform (PPR) service. PPR is an outward facing, central function which advises and develops policy, undertakes and collaborates on transformation and reform projects and ensures that MCC is data-driven, and evidence led through robust analysis, research and evaluation. The three constituent teams of PPR (Policy, Performance, Research and Intelligence and Reform and Innovation) work together on shared strategic priorities.Within PPR, HDRC Manchester will be based in PRI: the centre of excellence for data and insight, reporting to the Head of PRI. It will be a new team focused solely on HDRC priorities, sitting close to business-as-usual (BAU) teams to enable maximum impact on current council approaches and to support knowledge transfer and increasing capability.As a Directorate Support Officer, you’ll work closely with a Senior Analyst, the wider HDRC team, and across partner services, such as MCC’s Neighbourhoods Directorate, to support research, analysis and evaluation projects. You’ll help generate insights that inform strategic and operational decisions, contributing to a better understanding of the wider determinants of health in Manchester.You’ll be encouraged to take ownership of your work, develop your skills, and collaborate with colleagues across the council and external partners.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide flexible and effective support to HDRC Manchester’s research and programme delivery through administrative coordination and data analysis.Assist in producing high-quality reports and evaluations that inform decision-making.Contribute to the development of guidance, toolkits and training materials.Undertake primary research with communities and residents.Support in the delivery of the HDRC communication strategy and HDRC network events.Work with internal and external stakeholders, including the University of Manchester and local services.Provide support to the HDRC team in developing and delivering engagement plans that promote evidence-based decision-making.Help ensure data and intelligence are accessible, relevant and impactful.Maintain a good understanding of service needs and priorities.Provide support in the development, capture, and management of timely and accurate information for the HDRC Manchester team, enabling effective reporting to a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. What We’re Looking ForSomeone who is flexible and is able to manage their own workload.A curious and thoughtful approach to problem-solving.Strong communication and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret and present data clearly.Highly motivated, enthusiastic and assertive, and able to demonstrate the Our Manchester behaviours in their approach to work.Effective communicators, possessing both written and verbal communication skills that help them both understand and influence stakeholders.A collaborative mindset and willingness to learn.Organised and able to plan out and deliver multiple tasks in effective and efficient ways and in conjunction with colleagues.Interested in understanding the wider determinants of health and willing to learn and apply new skills within their role.Confident in using digital tools to support research and analysis.For an informal discussion, please contact the hiring manager, Saima Nafis, at saima.nafis@manchester.gov.uk to arrange a convenient time to discuss the roleWe’re the local council for one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities.Working for Manchester isn’t just a job - it’s an opportunity to contribute to a city that leads change and transforms lives. Whether it’s strengthening communities or driving innovation in public services, you’ll play a vital role in creating opportunities and shaping a brighter future for everyone.Our Manchester Is Our Vision For a Fairer, Greener, And Healthier City - a Vision Shaped By The People Of Manchester. It Guides Everything We Do At The Council And Is Brought To Life Through The Our Manchester BehavioursWe take time to listen and understandWe work together and trust each otherWe show that we value our differences and treat each other fairlyWe ‘own it’ and we’re not afraid to try new thingsWe’re proud and passionate about ManchesterBenefits We OfferGenerous holiday allowance - Enjoy up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays. Increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service. Want more leave? You can purchase up to two additional weeks. A buzzing pension - You’ll be enrolled in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with plenty of options to top up your benefits. Includes life cover of three-times your salary as a lump sum. Enhanced parental and carers leave - Take advantage of our enhanced family leave options, designed to provide ample time for you to bond with your new born or support your family during critical life events. Brilliant perks - Access a range of discounts, from saving on the weekly shop to holidays and days out with MCR+. Plus discounts on phone contracts, cycle to work scheme, free flu jabs and eye tests, and more. Learn and grow - We are dedicated to nurturing talent and providing you with the tools to thrive. Take part in a diverse set of learning opportunities, from workshops and training sessions through to apprenticeships and qualifications. All this begins with our comprehensive onboarding process. A Good Employment Charter member - We are committed to offering secure, flexible work and embedding fairness into everything we do. We review pay annually, recognize three trade unions, and are constantly working to offer the best possible health and wellbeing support throughout all stages of your working life. Up to 3 days volunteering leave - Give back to the community with three days pro-rate of paid volunteering leave, in addition to existing benefits. Creating an Inclusive Team at Manchester City Council At Manchester City Council, we’re dedicated to creating a workplace that truly reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities, Disabled people and young people.Support During the ProcessInterview Adjustments: Let us know if you need any adjustments to demonstrate your suitability during the interview.Accessible Formats: Our ReciteMe tool can be accessed through the "Accessibility tools" button at the top of our careers page. This tool offers features like text-to-speech, translation into multiple languages, and adjustable text size and colour to make our site more accessible for everyone. Guaranteed Assessment Scheme RequirementsWe guarantee assessments for applicants who meet the recruiting panels minimum shortlisting requirements for the role and identify with at least one of the criteria below:Members of the Armed Forces members or veteransCurrent or former care leaversHave a disability or long-term condition If you have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme or any MCC positive action programmeIf you have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme, please indicate this within the Supporting Statement section of your application.When You Join Us We’re a Disability Confident Employer, OfferingA workplace adjustment hub which provides specialist support, advice and guidance to ensure you have the adjustments needed to thrive at work.Disabled Staff Network, Neurodiversity Staff Network and Mental Health Staff Network that provides a safe inclusive space to share experiences and opportunities to influence council practice.A strong commitment to ensuring all information adheres to accessibility standards and that our workplaces are accessible and disability-friendly.For more information about the role or any adjustments, email jobs@manchester.gov.uk.What We Will Need From You If You're SuccessfulIn accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement of employment. This is not a role we consider to be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route based on Manchester City Council policy. Candidates are therefore encouraged to consider their own right to work options without the requirement for Manchester City Council sponsorship. Pre-Employment Checks RequiredIf you are successful in securing a position with us, the pre-employment checks required will depend on the role you’ve applied for. As a guide, these checks may include:Proof of Right to Work: You’ll need to provide documentary evidence of your right to work in the UK. References: We’ll require references from your current and previous employer(s).Proof of Qualifications: Evidence of qualifications relevant to the role will be required.Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check: A criminal record check may be necessary, depending on the role.Proof of Manchester Residency: For some roles, you may need to demonstrate that you reside within the boundaries of Manchester City Council.Police Vetting: Some roles may require police vetting to ensure suitability for accessing sensitive law enforcement systems or information.Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) Clearance: BPSS clearance is primarily used for roles that involve access to government data, systems, or assets. It ensures that individuals meet basic security requirements and can be trusted with sensitive informationDriving Licence: If the role requires driving, we’ll need evidence of your valid driving licence.These checks are an important part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our workforce and the community we serve.Other Relevant InformationWe want everyone to be able to be themselves at work and give their best. If you need additional support to undertake the duties of the role, we’ll make every effort to source any necessary aids, adaptations or equipment. If, however, any task proves to be unachievable, we will look at redesigning parts of the role.For more information about the role, please ensure that you read the role profile attached.Calculate your take home pay. Use this service to estimate how much Income Tax and National Insurance you should pay for the current tax year.Privacy Notice