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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects to help businesses grow through research and collaboration.
- Company: Join The Growth Company, a dynamic team focused on business development in Greater Manchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by connecting businesses with cutting-edge research and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in business innovation or technology is essential; strong communication skills are a must.
- Other info: Interviews will be held in May 2025, so apply now to secure your spot!
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The Growth Company’s (GC) Business Growth Hub team have an exciting new opportunity for an Innovation Development Manager to deliver high-level specialist collaborative innovation support to meet the needs of those wishing to scale and grow businesses through investment in research and innovation across Greater Manchester (GM).
Working jointly between the Innovation Service and University departments to proactively generate high-quality research projects, translating innovation challenges into commercial opportunities and matching them to the shared objectives of both GM Business Growth Hub and the University. The role will develop and manage collaborative relationships with businesses and other key stakeholders and partners, integrating wider innovation advice and support.
Interviews for this role will take place WC 12th May 2025.
Key Responsibilities:- Translate identified business needs for research, innovation, and commercialisation into collaboration opportunities.
- Undertake detailed discussions with clients to understand their challenges and articulate them in a technical Project Brief.
- Provide recommendations to Innovation Specialists and senior management on accessing University facilities and expertise.
- Develop an understanding of the University’s research capabilities and generate technical projects.
- Act as a bridge between the Innovation Service, businesses, and Universities for technology transfer and research collaboration.
- Proactively develop a project pipeline and manage the completion of business collaboration projects.
- Contribute to marketing strategies that promote the Innovation Service and Universities.
- Represent the Innovation Service at marketing and networking events to enhance awareness and promote collaboration.
- Operate effectively at senior management and/or academic level.
- Link objectives and actions to an overall strategy.
- Prioritise and schedule tasks to ensure optimal use of time and resources.
- Build and maintain relationships with business and academic networks.
- Ethical understanding of commercial services that best meet client interests.
- Self-starter with a professional and flexible approach.
- Clean current driving license.
- Detailed technical knowledge of GM Frontier Sectors and key technology areas.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and networking skills.
- Strong sales and account management abilities.
- Exceptional planning, organisational, and project management skills.
- Well-developed IT skills, including management information and CRM systems.
- Commercial awareness and credibility.
- Experience in business innovation, technology, or academic environments.
- Understanding of project management techniques and market knowledge of key sectors.
Innovation Development Manager employer: The Growth Company
Contact Detail:
The Growth Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovation Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within the Greater Manchester area, especially with local universities and businesses. Attend industry events and seminars to meet potential collaborators and stakeholders who can provide insights into the innovation landscape.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in research and innovation specific to GM Frontier Sectors. This knowledge will help you articulate how your skills align with the needs of businesses looking to scale through innovation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing collaborative projects and how you've successfully bridged gaps between businesses and academic institutions. Real-life examples will demonstrate your capability to fulfil the role effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication and presentation skills by engaging in mock interviews or networking sessions. Being able to clearly convey complex ideas will be crucial in this role, so practice articulating your thoughts succinctly.
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and skills required for the Innovation Development Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV showcases relevant experience in innovation, project management, and collaboration with businesses and academic institutions. Use clear headings and bullet points to make it easy to read.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Highlight specific examples of how you've successfully managed projects or developed collaborative relationships in the past.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Growth Company
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of what the Innovation Development Manager role entails. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and how they align with the objectives of both the Growth Company and the University. This will help you articulate your understanding and show your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Prepare Examples of Past Successes
Think of specific instances where you've successfully translated business needs into collaborative opportunities or managed projects effectively. Be ready to discuss these examples in detail, highlighting your role and the outcomes achieved. This will demonstrate your capability and experience in similar situations.
✨Showcase Your Networking Skills
Since building relationships is crucial for this role, prepare to discuss your networking experiences. Share how you've developed and maintained professional connections in the past, particularly within academic or business environments. This will illustrate your ability to act as a bridge between different stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the GM Frontier Sectors and how innovation can drive growth in these areas. Show that you are not only aware of the current market trends but also how they can be leveraged for the benefit of businesses and the University. This will highlight your strategic thinking and commercial acumen.
