Research and Engagement Manager

Job Details:

Job Reference: HCC622848
Salary Range: £48,948 - £54,423 per annum
Work Location: Elizabeth II Court, Winchester
Hours per week: 37
Contract Type: Temporary (18 months)
Closing Date: 3 December 2025
Interview Date: w/c 15 December 2025

The Role:

We're seeking a lead professional, experienced in the design and delivery of quantitative and qualitative research, co-production and behaviour change projects on an 18-month contract to guide the roll out of Best Start Family Hubs in Hampshire.

About Best Start Family Hubs

In July 2025, the Government launched a nationwide initiative called Best Start Family Hubs as part of their Plan for Change, aiming to ensure every child gets the best possible start in life. Their aim is to open 1,000 Best Start Family Hubs across England by 2028, offering early help and preventative services for all, but especially those most in need.

These hubs will provide a wide range of services and activities, with an initial emphasis on enhancing home learning environments for children aged 3 to 4, increasing the number who reach a good level of development (GLD), and supporting babies and young children during the crucial first 1,001 days of life.

In Hampshire, the new hubs will build on existing work to create Community Hubs that provide early and accessible support to families with children aged 0-19 (up to 25 if leaving care or SEND), and alignment with the NHS 10-year health plan’s focus on neighbourhood working, which brings together services and personalised care close to where people live. 

What you’ll do:

Based within our Consultation and Performance Unit, you will work closely with colleagues and partners to design, develop, and carry out the necessary research to address all co-design requirements for Best Start Family Hubs and gather service user (children, family and community) insights.

You will lead the project team in applying COM B behavioural theory and related tools to accurately identify the key behaviours, barriers and targeted solutions to enable the Hubs to reach their full potential.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with children, families and communities from across the county to help shape a vital service that can adapt to local needs. Your insight will be key to ensuring that the Hubs are appealing and accessible to everyone who may need their support.

What we’re looking for:

We're keen to hear from you if you:

• Are a confident and experienced research manager
• Are passionate about solving problems using evidence and insight
• Have the relevant skills and experience to understand and influence behaviour change
• Enjoy taking business challenges and working collaboratively to co-design innovative solutions that lead to evidence-based decision making with a social impact
• Are looking for a rewarding role helping to shape the future of public services in Hampshire

Why join us?

Hampshire County Council is recognised nationally as one of the highest performing local authorities in the UK. As a modern, forward-looking organisation, we offer a pleasant, supportive, and collaborative working environment based in the beautiful and historic city of Winchester - with excellent facilities and good travel links.

We’re a flexible employer interested in empowering you, making the most of your skills and offering a great work life balance. We invest in you through our internal development programmes and training and offer a competitive salary and benefits package.

Additional Information:

Research and Engagement Manager Candidate Pack

Vetting Requirements:

This post is subject to a Criminal Records Check.

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:

Katharine Hughes, Senior Leader Consultation and Performance on insight@hants.gov.uk