Unlock your potential with ARMA’s Research Leaders Mastermind Pilot

This programme is now closed for applications. 

Are you a senior research management leader looking for a trusted network to share insights, navigate challenges and develop innovative solutions? ARMA is excited to introduce the Research Leaders Mastermind, a transformative pilot programme designed to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing and professional growth in a confidential and supportive environment. This programme is part of our ongoing commitment to improving the support we offer to our members that work in a leadership role.

Why join the Mastermind pilot programme?  

Based on extensive feedback provided to our Member Engagement Committee from senior research leaders, we know that many of you would like deeper connections with peers – especially those of you who are new to leadership roles or have recently transitioned to a new institution.  

The Mastermind programme is designed to provide: a structured yet flexible space for research leaders to come together, exchange ideas and problem-solve in a way that goes beyond traditional professional development or coaching. 

Masterminds are often described as having your own personal board of directors. The success of this initiative will rely on each member’s commitment to engaging in meaningful discussions, attending monthly sessions and contributing to a dynamic exchange of ideas. Beyond personal and professional support, masterminds create an environment where members can combine their expertise and creativity to generate new initiatives and drive impactful change.

How it works  

An initial cohort of 12 research leaders will be selected for this pilot, based on a review of their expressions of interest, ensuring we have a range of institutions, experience and roles represented.  

This Mastermind will be co-created by members and designed around the priorities and needs of senior research management leaders, to create maximum impact and benefit.  

ARMA’s Research Leaders Mastermind pilot programme will initially be free for ARMA members and run online monthly for six months, with the first session facilitated by Jo Cresswell, Research and Innovation Consultant. 

Programme structure 

6 monthly online sessions 

Facilitation – To ensure effectiveness, the programme will be structured as follows: 

• A professionally facilitated first session to help set expectations and establish ground rules. 

• Self-organisation by group members after the first session. 

• Midway and final check-in sessions with a facilitator to ensure alignment with members’ needs and support evaluation. 

Purpose & scope: The mastermind sessions will provide a safe and structured space for senior research leaders to: 

• Connect with peers and exchange ideas 

• Discuss challenges in leadership and research management 

• Develop new initiatives and refine strategic approaches 

• Support personal development and professional growth 

• Maintain accountability for personal and professional goals. 

The group will have the flexibility to combine discussion-driven and action-oriented approaches to ensure maximum value.

Content & structure: To ensure each meeting is productive and engaging, members will co-design how the mastermind sessions work, for example: 

• Following a pre-determined monthly theme chosen by members 

• Being driven by open discussion on pressing challenges 

• Incorporating a combination of both approaches based on group consensus. 

Connection between sessions: Building trust and fostering a strong support network is key to success. Between sessions, members will have the option to stay connected through a dedicated Teams site provided by ARMA.

Addressing key leadership needs: This programme is designed to tackle some of the most pressing challenges identified by senior research leaders, including (but not restricted to): 

• Enhancing collaboration and knowledge-sharing 

• Developing new ways of working and innovative initiatives 

• Addressing common sector themes, such as REF 

• Providing professional support for problem-solving 

• Supporting personal development and leadership growth 

• Enhancing wellbeing and mitigating burnout. 

Be part of this exciting pilot  

The ARMA Research Leaders Mastermind pilot offers a unique opportunity to be part of an engaged and forward-thinking group dedicated to driving excellence in research management and designing and shaping this programme for future members. 

This programme is now closed for applications. The first session will take place online on Wednesday 14 May from 11am – 1pm (please do not apply if you cannot make this session).  

If you would like further information, please contact James Dunphy at james.dunphy@arma.ac.uk to set up an informal chat.