Development Programme for Directors of Research (DPDoR) 2025-26

By the end of the programme you will have deepened your understanding about the role of Director of Research and about the skills, knowledge and behaviours that are important in the role. You will have had the opportunity to:

• Build and enhance the skills and competencies required to be an effective Director of Research

• Understand how the current external research, funding and policy environment affects your strategy for business and management research

• Gain confidence in managing internal pressures, relationships, faculty performance and HR.

• Explore approaches to managing the REF process from strategy, implementation and the presentation of results

• Work towards your professional development and learning objectives in the context of your institution's research strategy

The DPDoR programme supports Associate Deans and Directors of Research (ADRs/DoRs) in developing the leadership skills, strategic understanding, and collaborative approaches required to build high-performing research environments.

DPDoR has successfully run for over 15 years as part of a joint initiative between the Chartered Association of Business Schools and the British Academy of Management. During this time, the programme has prepared around 250 senior academics to lead their institutions’ research and navigate the internal and external demands of the day. 

DPDoR 2025-26 will take place in person with four interactive sessions taking place throughout the year to support you to develop your strategic approach and build a strong leadership network within the UK business school community. 

By the end of the programme, you will have deepened your understanding about the role of Director of Research and about the skills, knowledge and behaviours that are important in the role. You will have had the opportunity to:

• Build and enhance the skills and competencies required to be an effective Director of Research

• Understand how the current external research, funding and policy environment affects your strategy for business and management research

• Gain confidence in managing internal pressures, relationships, faculty performance and HR.

• Explore approaches to managing the REF process from strategy, implementation and the presentation of results

• Work towards your professional development and learning objectives in the context of your institution's research priorities strategy

Please note: Dates, venue and programme content are all tentative and subject to change.