32. Business Solutions and Programmes

Function Senior Leadership Team: Jane Wilcox, Jo Zamani and Chris Smith 

Executive Senior Responsible Owner: Ann Wieland

The Business Solutions and Programmes Function provides end‑to‑end support for organisational change across the RDN and wider NIHR, combining early‑stage shaping with expert management of delivery. Business Solutions (Business Analysis and Business Architecture) works across the full change lifecycle (scoping and investigation, requirements definition, solution design and deployment), conducting detailed analysis and producing evidence‑based artefacts through the Business Architecture Group to guide organisational decision‑making. Programmes is the delivery arm for large, complex initiatives, offering consultancy expertise, training and the direct management of major projects and programmes to ensure successful and coordinated implementation. 

Capabilities

The Business Solutions and Programmes Function brings together specialist expertise in business analysis, business architecture, and project and programme management. Our capabilities span the full change lifecycle providing high-level and detailed analysis, solution design, supporting the development and delivery of major change initiatives. Through the Business Architecture Group, we maintain organisational artefacts that describe how the RDN operates, enabling consistent decision‑making, strategic alignment and clear understanding of dependencies.

Responsibilities

We support the network in shaping, designing and delivering complex change. Business Solutions leads the analytical and architectural aspects of change, ensuring initiatives are evidence‑based, feasible and aligned with strategic priorities. The Programmes function manages the delivery of large‑scale projects and programmes, providing structured management, consultancy, guidance and capability‑building across the RDN. Together, we ensure that change is coherent, well‑designed, governed effectively and contributes to the network’s long‑term goals.

Ways of Working

We work in partnership with directorates, RRDNs and national teams, promoting collaboration, transparency and consistency. Our approach emphasises early engagement, clear communication, shared understanding of objectives and well‑defined roles. We apply recognised good practice across business analysis, business architecture and project and programme management, tailoring our support to local and national needs. By working openly and consistently across the RDN, we help ensure that change is understood, coordinated and delivered in a way that maximises organisational benefit.

NIHR Project Lifecycle Framework