Commercialisation and Intellectual Property Manager in Northampton

Commercialisation of our research is of increasing importance to the University of Northampton as we respond to the drive for universities to realise greater socio-economic benefits and impact on our communities. This post is to play a lead role in delivering the University’s IP & Commercialisation ambitions. This includes supporting, training and providing expert guidance to academic and professional service staff to develop a growing pipeline of IP-based commercialisation, building on research and enterprise activities across the University. You will also be involved in supporting the University’s REF and KEF submissions as appropriate. You will be expected to ensure the efficient and effective running of commercialisation projects and lead on engaging the University’s faculties, institutes, and professional services in identifying intellectual property with potential for commercial development.

There are some exciting opportunities already within our pipeline and this is your opportunity to see these through to fruition and develop new proposals. We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

You will have a good understanding of the current position and future direction of commercialisation within the university sector and be adept at interpreting, analysing and presenting information in a clear and concise manner. You will have a proven track record of coaching academics to deliver successful IP‑based commercialisation activity, including patenting processes and intellectual property management, including IP licensing and spin‑out negotiations. You will have knowledge of financial procedures relating to external commercialisation‑related funding and experience of supporting successful funding or investment applications. You will have demonstrable experience in developing networks across multiple sectors including the private, public, and civil sectors.

To fulfil this post we need someone who is both a team player but can also act on their own initiative and is confident in leading on projects. You will need to be an excellent communicator with interpersonal skills to meet the needs of a variety of stakeholders. The post will require excellent organisational and time‑management skills alongside the ability to work to strict deadlines, with good attention to detail. You will also need the entrepreneurial ability to recognise commercial opportunities and manage multi‑partner expectations with discretion.

Qualifications: First degree or relevant professional experience. Training in intellectual property.

You will be joining a Directorate of Research and Knowledge Exchange. This Directorate will comprise the Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise team, Research Support Service, Research Support, the Graduate School and the Institutes of Public Safety and Criminal Justice and Social Impact and Innovation. The Directorate works closely with the Faculties, Institutes and Professional Services to support and deliver the University’s research and knowledge exchange ambitions including the commercialisation of research and enterprise activities. The Directorate oversees the University’s REF and KEF submission and supports aspects of the TEF submission. You will have the opportunity to join relevant professional bodies and training support of your post.

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first‑rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel. We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment. We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential. We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

All candidates will be asked to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process. We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups. The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Commitments Include: Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero‑tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive. Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support. Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON's Major Commitments: Disability Confident, Standalone Pledge, IHRA Working Definition.