At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovation initiatives and support the creative industries through strategic planning.
- Company: Join the BFI, a leader in the screen sector with a focus on responsible innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, enhanced parental pay, and free film screenings.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the creative industry while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing innovation programmes or research in the creative sector.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Fixed Term Contract: 12 months Maternity cover, July 2026 – July 2027. We are looking for a Senior Industry and Innovation Manager to join the BFI’s Industry Development & Innovation for a fixed term 12-month maternity cover. They will work to enable and embed responsible innovation across both the BFI and the wider screen sector. They will collaboratively develop and implement an Innovation Plan for the Industry Development and Innovation Directorate, as well as a Comms & Reporting Plan to maximise the strategic impact of the directorate’s work. They will act as Fund Head for the BFI National Lottery Innovation Challenge Fund and provide managerial support to the Industry Development and Innovation Directorate.
What you’ll do
- Coordinate the creation and maintenance of an overall Industry Development and Innovation reporting and comms high-level plan, coordinating with senior managers, and comms and policy teams.
- Develop both sector and internal BFI evidence-based innovation support plans, coordinating with senior managers across the BFI.
- Provide line-management support to the Industry & Innovation Manager.
- Act as the Fund Head for the Innovation Challenge Fund and support the Industry & Innovation Manager with its day-to-day delivery.
What you’ll bring
- Experience of either a) commissioning or managing innovation programmes or b) commissioning and/or managing research, evaluation or administering funding in a third-sector (including public bodies) or academic environment, preferably within the screen sector or the wider creative industries.
- Experience of successfully designing or developing processes and procedures to support the strategic delivery of programmes.
- Demonstrable experience of successful engagement and relationship management with stakeholders, including convening industry stakeholders for consultation and/or partnership working.
- Working knowledge of the UK screen sector and/or the creative industries as a whole.
We support diversity and inclusion, and as an organisation recognise that we need to address under representation within our teams. As such 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.
Further details about the role, the BFI and our benefits can be obtained by visiting www.bfi.org.uk/about-bfi/job-opportunities. The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Thursday 11 June 2026. First interviews will be held on Mon 29th - Fri 3rd July 2026. Second interviews will be held on Mon 6th - Fri 10th July 2026.
Senior Industry & Innovation Manager employer: British Film Institute (BFI)
The BFI is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions diversity and inclusion while fostering innovation within the screen sector. Employees benefit from generous annual leave, a supportive pension scheme, and unique perks such as complimentary film screenings and a commitment to professional growth through engaging projects. Located in the heart of London, the BFI provides a dynamic environment where creativity thrives and meaningful contributions are valued.
Contact Details:
British Film Institute (BFI) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Industry & Innovation Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend events related to the screen sector. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make connections that could lead to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the BFI and its projects. Show us you’re passionate about responsible innovation and how your experience aligns with our goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your relevant skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop us a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in our minds as we make decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates there, so keep checking back!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Industry & Innovation Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Industry & Innovation Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing innovation programmes and engaging with stakeholders, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your ability to design processes and support strategic delivery. Use metrics where possible to show the impact of your work.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the screen sector. This will help us quickly see how you fit into the role.
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 position. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Film Institute (BFI)
✨Know Your Innovation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in the screen sector and creative industries. Familiarise yourself with recent innovations and how they impact the industry. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past. Think about specific instances where you convened industry stakeholders for consultation or partnership working. Being able to articulate these experiences will highlight your relationship management skills.
✨Have a Clear Vision
Be ready to discuss your ideas for an Innovation Plan. Think about how you would coordinate with senior managers and develop evidence-based support plans. Showing that you have a strategic mindset will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the BFI's current projects and future goals. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to engage in a meaningful conversation. It’s a great way to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and the organisation.
