At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the BFI National Lottery Innovation Challenge Fund and support impactful innovation in the screen sector.
- Company: Join the British Film Institute, a leader in promoting creativity and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, enhanced parental leave, and free film screenings.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the creative industries while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing research or funding in creative sectors is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are looking for an Industry and Innovation Manager to join the BFI’s Industry Development & Innovation department. They will support the screen sector and the BFI to embed responsible and impactful innovation. They will take ownership of the day-to-day management of the BFI National Lottery Innovation Challenge Fund, BFI’s funding mechanism for stimulating innovation across the sector, managing individual challenge calls from research stage through to delivery and reporting. They will also provide support to the Industry Development & Innovation directorate to enable innovation in the BFI’s own programmes and practices.
What you’ll do
- Manage the day-to-day running of the BFI National Lottery Innovation Challenge Fund, including budget management.
- Develop evidence‑based challenge calls (for example through reviewing existing literature and sandpits) and write accompanying application guidance.
- Manage individual calls: act as the first point of contact for prospective applicants, manage applications and oversee communications regarding the outcome of all call awards.
- Oversee the progress of Fund awardees and monitor the delivery of their intended outputs.
- Manage the internal assessment process for the Innovation Challenge Fund, including reviewing eligibility and working with colleagues from across the organisation, alongside external assessors, to evaluate applications and make awards.
What you’ll bring
- Experience of either a) commissioning and/or managing research, evaluation or administering funding in the third‑sector (including public bodies), creative industries or an academic environment, or b) commissioning or managing innovation programmes.
- Experience of successfully designing or developing processes and procedures to support the delivery of programmes.
- Demonstrable experience of successful engagement and relationship management with stakeholders.
- Working knowledge of the UK screen sector and/or the creative industries as a whole.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with service) + bank holidays + the option to buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
- Additional paid time off between Christmas and New Year.
- BFI pension scheme with 5% employer contribution.
- BFI Childcare Scheme, where we contribute to childcare costs.
- Enhanced pay for Maternity & Paternity leave.
- Complimentary tickets to BFI Southbank & IMAX screenings and events.
- Free BFI Player subscription + discount on BFI merchandise, and film tickets.
We support diversity and inclusion, and as an organisation recognise that we need to address under representation within our teams. We strongly welcome and encourage applicants from our under‑represented groups who identify as D/deaf and disabled and/or are Black and Global Majority. We guarantee a place at the first‑stage selection process to our under‑represented groups who meet our minimum requirements.
The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Thursday 11 June 2026.
Industry & Innovation Manager employer: British Film Institute (BFI)
The BFI is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and creativity within the screen sector. With generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, a supportive pension scheme, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees are empowered to grow and thrive in their roles. Located at the heart of the UK's creative industries, the BFI provides unique opportunities for professional development and engagement with influential stakeholders.
Contact Details:
British Film Institute (BFI) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industry & Innovation Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and engage on social media. The more people you know in the screen sector, the better your chances of landing that Industry & Innovation Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience in managing innovation programmes and stakeholder engagement. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Research common interview questions for management roles in the creative industries and practice your responses. We want you to feel confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Industry & Innovation Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Industry & Innovation Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in managing funding or innovation programmes, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills:We want to see how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past. Share examples of your relationship management skills and how they’ve contributed to successful projects. This will help us understand your ability to navigate the creative industries landscape.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and highlight your qualifications without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Film Institute (BFI)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the UK screen sector and the creative industries. Brush up on recent trends, challenges, and innovations. This will not only show your passion but also help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your experience in managing research, funding, or innovation programmes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your achievements.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve successfully managed relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. Be ready to discuss your approach to communication and collaboration, as this is crucial for the Industry & Innovation Manager role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the BFI National Lottery Innovation Challenge Fund and its impact on the sector. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to the organisation’s goals.
