Interim Chief Executive Officer

Interim CEO – Science Research Foundation (SRF) Limited

Fixed-term | 0.5 FTE | Based in Bristol | Initially July–December 2025

The Science Research Foundation (SRF) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Bristol, is seeking an exceptional Interim Chief Executive Officer to lead the company during a critical period of growth and transition.

SRF plays a central role in delivering innovation, business support, and commercialisation services aligned to the University’s strategy. Currently this includes three established innovation hubs within Bristol:

• SETsquared Bristol is the University of Bristol’s incubation programme for ~100 tech start-ups. It is part of the award-winning SETsquared Partnership.
• Engine Shed is a 28,000ft² innovation hub located in a heritage building next to Temple Meads station. It provides membership, training and event space to local companies and has a prominent role in the City’s thriving innovation ecosystem.
• QTIC – the Quantum Technologies Innovation Centre (QTIC) is a 3000ft² dedicated facility in the Faculty of Science and Engineering in Cathedral Square. It has ~6 quantum/deep tech member companies and provides them with lab and office space, and specialist equipment.

As Interim CEO, you will be responsible for leading SRF through the next phase of its development, implementing the Board-approved business plan, driving operational transformation, and ensuring strong delivery against KPIs. Specifically, this will include supporting the planned transition of Bristol Innovation hubs to a new purpose-built Temple Quarter Campus.

This is a 0.5 FTE fixed-term appointment initially July to December 2025, reporting to the SRF Board of Directors and based at the Engine Shed in central Bristol.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead SRF’s strategic execution and business plan implementation.
• Oversee all operations and activities, including legal, finance, staffing, and compliance.
• Manage SRF’s transition to a standalone business, progressing the transfer of staff from the University.
• Maintain strong links with the University, customers, regional stakeholders, and funders.
• Provide visible and values-driven leadership, fostering a culture of innovation and inclusion.

About You

You are an experienced executive with a track record in innovation, enterprise, or commercial leadership roles. You bring:

• Board-level experience and credibility across public, private, and/or university sectors.
• Proven success in leading business support organisations or SMEs.
• Strong financial and operational management skills, with experience of multi-million-pound budgets.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to lead strategic change in complex environments.

Contractual Details

This is a part-time (50% FTE) secondment or fixed-term appointment. The role is accountable to the SRF Board of Directors and may be undertaken under contract or through secondment (subject to agreement).

To apply, please contact John Rainsbury – John.Rainsbury@Sandersonplc.com

Application deadline 17th June 2025

SRF and the University of Bristol are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.