At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead external engagement and shape a nationally recognised digital innovation institute.
- Company: Aston University, a vibrant campus in Birmingham with a focus on research and innovation.
- Benefits: Generous salary, hybrid working, 31 days leave, discounts, and family-friendly policies.
- Other info: Opportunity for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship and excellent career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by connecting research with industry needs and driving meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in industry or applied innovation required.
The predicted salary is between 67280 - 104712 £ per year.
Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute (SPR DFI) – Aston Digital Futures Institute, located at Aston University Main Campus.
We are seeking a collaborative and strategically-minded leader to lead the external engagement activity of the Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute (SPR DFI). This is a high-profile opportunity to shape a nationally recognised institute that connects research, innovation, and emerging technologies with real-world industry need.
As Director (External Engagement), you will provide strategic leadership, support sustainable growth, and build effective partnerships across industry, government, and academia. You will help position DFI as an industry-facing institute that delivers practical solutions, market-ready propositions, and meaningful impact.
Working alongside the Director (Academic), you will shape the strategic direction of SPR DFI, develop commercial opportunities, and build strong partnerships that translate research and innovation into practical solutions. The role also requires visible and inclusive leadership across senior stakeholder networks, contribution to regional and national strategy, and effective oversight of delivery, governance, and performance.
You will bring senior leadership experience in industry, applied innovation, or commercial technology environments, together with sound commercial judgement and a proven ability to turn ideas into outcomes. You will be able to build confidence with senior stakeholders, work effectively across academia, industry, and government, and bring a strong commitment to delivery, growth, and impact.
This is a rare opportunity to shape a high-impact institute at the forefront of digital innovation and applied research, influencing strategic partnerships and delivering meaningful economic and societal value. If you are a strategic and collaborative senior leader with the vision, commercial insight, and inclusive approach to help build a nationally significant institute, we would welcome your application.
If you have any questions about this opportunity, please contact Clare Noakes to arrange an informal conversation with Professor Mike Caine, Pro-Vice Chancellor Research & Enterprise.
What we offer:
- Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
- Hybrid working is possible for this role, which means working both on campus and from home depending on the activity.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave scheme with 31 days’ bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University closure days.
- Everyday discounts for a number of activities and retailers.
- Great family-friendly policies.
- On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note, we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions. Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace.
Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications: While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities. We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director (External Engagement) – Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute (DFI) in Birmingham
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Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at Aston University
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Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for Aston University could really set you apart. Consider potential strategies for growth and how you would lead teams towards achieving them. This shows not just enthusiasm, but also strategic foresight that they’ll likely be looking for in a candidate.
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