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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects connecting universities and businesses in Greater Manchester.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on research and innovation collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by translating challenges into commercial opportunities while building valuable networks.
- Qualifications: Experience in funded projects and understanding of R&D funding is essential.
- Other info: Ideal for self-starters with strong communication and project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 36400 - 63600 £ per year.
An exciting new opportunity has arisen for an Innovation Development Manager to deliver high-level collaboration between universities, Innovate UK and local businesses. This role will involve project managing the investment, research and innovation of businesses across Greater Manchester. For this role, you will need a background in funded projects and have an understanding of how innovation or R&D funding works.
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 shared objectives. The role will develop and manage collaborative relationships with businesses and other key stakeholders and partners, integrating wider innovation advice and support.
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.
About You:
- 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 driving license.
Skills Required:
- 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.
If this sounds like your next career move, send your CV to Annalee Wood at Aspire Recruitment today.
Please note this vacancy is being handled by Aspire Recruitment (agy). Please be aware we receive a high volume of applications for every role advertised and regularly receive applications from candidates who exceed the job credentials. We will only contact you within the next 14 days if you are selected for interview.
Contact Detail:
Aspire Recruitment 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 universities and local businesses. Attend relevant events and workshops to meet potential collaborators and stakeholders who can provide insights into the innovation landscape.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in R&D funding and innovation projects. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful discussions with clients and articulate their challenges effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Develop a strong understanding of the specific capabilities and research strengths of the universities in your area. This will enable you to match business needs with the right academic resources and foster successful collaborations.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your project management skills by discussing past experiences where you've successfully managed collaborative projects. Highlight your ability to bridge gaps between different stakeholders and drive innovation forward.
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Innovation Development Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in project management, innovation funding, and collaboration with universities and businesses.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly showcase your background in funded projects, R&D funding, and any relevant experience in business innovation or academic environments. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in communication, project management, and relationship building.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and how your experience aligns with the job description. Highlight your ability to translate business needs into collaboration opportunities and your understanding of the local innovation landscape.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this senior-level position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspire Recruitment
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the key responsibilities of the Innovation Development Manager role. Familiarise yourself with how to translate business needs into collaboration opportunities and be ready to discuss your experience in managing funded projects.
✨Showcase Your Networking Skills
Since this role involves building relationships with businesses and academic networks, prepare examples of how you've successfully developed and maintained such relationships in the past. Highlight your communication and networking skills during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Project Management Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your project management experience, particularly in relation to innovation and R&D funding. Share specific examples of projects you've managed, focusing on your planning, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
✨Align with Their Vision
Research the company’s objectives and values, especially regarding innovation and collaboration. During the interview, express how your personal goals align with their mission and how you can contribute to their success in delivering high-quality research projects.
