At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of high-value R&D grant proposals and manage submissions across departments.
- Company: Join Digital Catapult, a top UK workplace driving innovation in advanced digital technologies.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, excellent holiday package, and perks like gym discounts and private medical insurance.
- Other info: We value diversity and guarantee interviews for disabled applicants meeting criteria.
- Why this job: Shape the future of technology while collaborating with experts in a vibrant, inclusive culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing R&D proposals and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Join Digital Catapult and play a critical role in shaping the UK's future in advanced digital technologies. Operating between pre-award operations and strategic bid management, the role will manage a portfolio of proposals across a range of public and private funding sources, ensuring high-quality, timely, and compliant submissions. The role will drive proposal excellence, collaborate closely with internal experts and external partners, and provide subject matter guidance on funder expectations and internal policies.
WHAT YOU'LL DO (Duties)
- Lead the development and submission of high-value, complex R&D grant proposals and commercial bids.
- Coordinate internal bid teams and ensure quality, timely submissions across multiple departments.
- Interpret funder documentation and advise on requirements, compliance, and internal processes.
- Support budget development aligned with full economic costing (FEC) and funder guidelines.
- Improve internal systems for pre-award proposal management and bid development.
- Drive proposal content strategy including impact, innovation, and collaboration sections.
Requirements
- Proven experience managing and submitting R&D grant proposals or commercial bids.
- Strong understanding of public funding sources (e.g., UKRI, Innovate UK, EC Horizon).
- Skilled in stakeholder coordination, communication, and navigating tight deadlines.
- Familiarity with FEC principles and proposal budget development.
- Demonstrated ability to write, review, and enhance proposal narratives and documentation.
- Previous experience in or supporting innovation or R&D environments.
Deadline for Applications: 23rd June 2025
We are committed to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. We value diverse backgrounds and aim to build an organization reflective of UK society. We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, minority and underrepresented groups, and those with varying levels of experience who can demonstrate the requisite skills.
As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria. Please discuss any adjustments needed for the interview process. Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer.
We are in the UK's Top 100 Best Workplaces and among the UK's Best Workplaces in Tech and Large Organisations.
Benefits
- 5% performance-related bonus
- Excellent holiday package: 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays, and 3 days between Christmas and New Year
- Double-matched pension up to 10% of salary
- Benefits including health cash plan, Private Medical Insurance, holiday purchase, pension top-up
- E-Vehicle Scheme; Cycle2Work; Tech Scheme; Gym Discounts; Give As You Earn; PerkPal
- Life insurance 4x salary
- Access to EAP & Financial Wellbeing advice
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Hybrid working with office presence 2 days/week; some roles onsite more regularly
- Investment in ongoing learning and development
- Company social events and free office snacks
We foster a vibrant culture where all voices are heard, supported by employee-led affinity groups and ongoing education on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. We enjoy social activities including sports, volunteering, and more.
R&D Proposals Lead in Gateshead employer: Digital Catapult
Digital Catapult is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions innovation and collaboration in the realm of advanced digital technologies. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive benefits including a generous holiday package, hybrid working options, and a focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every voice is valued. Join us to be part of a vibrant culture that not only supports your professional development but also encourages social engagement and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Proposals Lead in Gateshead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific funding sources mentioned in the job description, such as UKRI and Innovate UK. Understanding their requirements and expectations will give you an edge when discussing your experience and how it aligns with the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the R&D and funding sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and partners. This can provide insights into the industry and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing complex proposals. Be ready to share specific examples of past projects where you successfully coordinated teams and met tight deadlines, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of FEC principles and budget development during the interview. Being able to articulate how you have applied these concepts in previous roles will highlight your suitability for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Proposals Lead in Gateshead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Thoroughly read the job description for the R&D Proposals Lead position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as managing complex proposals and understanding public funding sources.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in R&D grant proposals or commercial bids. Emphasise your skills in stakeholder coordination, proposal writing, and budget development, ensuring they align with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for advanced digital technologies and your experience in proposal management. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background aligns with the role's duties and the company's mission.
Highlight Compliance Knowledge:In your application, emphasise your understanding of funder documentation and compliance requirements. Mention any previous experiences where you successfully navigated these aspects, as this is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Catapult
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure to read the job description carefully. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and required skills, especially around R&D grant proposals and public funding sources. This will help you tailor your answers to demonstrate how your experience aligns with what they are looking for.
✨Prepare Examples of Past Successes
Be ready to discuss specific examples from your previous work that showcase your ability to manage complex proposals and meet tight deadlines. Highlight any successful bids you've led, focusing on your role in the process and the outcomes achieved.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves coordinating internal teams and collaborating with external partners, be prepared to discuss how you effectively communicate and work with diverse stakeholders. Share examples of how you've navigated challenges in team settings to achieve a common goal.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Funder Expectations
Research the specific funders mentioned in the job description, such as UKRI and Innovate UK. Understanding their guidelines and expectations will allow you to speak confidently about how you can ensure compliance and high-quality submissions in your role.
