At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of TRL's software business and shape its AI strategy.
- Company: TRL, a respected name in transport research and infrastructure.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, high visibility, and the chance to drive significant change.
- Other info: Opportunity to build from scratch in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping the future of transport technology.
- Qualifications: Proven executive leadership experience and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
TRL is one of the UK's most respected names in transport research, road safety, and infrastructure trusted by National Highways, the Department for Transport, and major infrastructure operators. Under new private equity ownership, TRL is shifting gear. Software is where the business and its investors are placing their confidence for the future, and we're looking for a CTO to lead its commercial and cultural transformation. This is, by our own description, second only to the CEO role in importance to TRL's future direction.
The role:
- Sit on the Executive Leadership Team, reporting directly to the CEO, with high visibility to the Board and investment board.
- Own the commercial transformation of the Software business, bringing structure, process, and a clear roadmap to a function that's operated with a high degree of autonomy.
- Lead a team of ~20 (5 direct reports), including a ~120-strong offshore development team in India alongside a UK-based team.
- Partner with commercial/revenue leadership to align software development with genuine client need.
- Shape the software strategy and lead our AI strategy.
- Get hands-on, this is an early-stage build, not a role with a team and budget waiting for you.
Who we're looking for:
- A seasoned executive, this isn't a first step into exec leadership.
- High EQ, comfortable driving change and managing the push-and-pull that comes with it.
- Confident engaging directly with Boards and investment boards.
- SME experience managing multiple stakeholder groups.
- A genuine change and commercialisation leader, someone who can take a technically capable but under-packaged function and make it something investors can understand, measure, and back.
- Comfortable with ambiguity and building from scratch.
- Experience with globally distributed teams, AI strategy, and PE-backed transformation is a plus. Sector background in infrastructure/transport is preferred but not required.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Technology Officer in London
✨Get Involved in Tech Transfer Events
Tech transfer is all about networking, so make sure you're attending industry conferences and seminars related to technology commercialization. Events like the AUTM Annual Meeting or local innovation workshops are clutch for meeting key players and learning what's trending—plus, you might just bump into someone from Goldstone Associates!
✨Showcase Your Projects
Having a solid portfolio can really make you stand out. Highlight any projects where you successfully brought a technology to market or improved a process. Sharing case studies or insights on platforms like LinkedIn can catch the eye of recruiters at Goldstone Associates, showing them you’ve got the chops for the job.
✨Leverage University Connections
Many universities have strong tech transfer offices—connect with them! They often have ties to industry and can help you get your foot in the door. Plus, you might find openings or internship opportunities that lead to this full-time role at places like Goldstone Associates.
✨Engage with Online Communities
Join forums or online communities focused on tech transfer and commercialization. Platforms like ResearchGate or industry-specific Slack channels are great for connecting with professionals, discussing trends, and possibly learning about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Remember, your next opportunity could be just a message away!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Technology Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tech Transfer Know-How:In the tech transfer and commercialization world, it's crucial to highlight your understanding of intellectual property, patents, and market analysis. Make sure your CV includes relevant projects or experiences where you successfully navigated these areas. Any certifications in commercialisation would also give you a serious edge!
Tailor Your Documents for the Role:Your cover letter should reflect not just your enthusiasm for the position at Goldstone Associates, but also your knowledge of current trends in technology-transfer. Discuss specific cases where you've contributed to commercialising innovations or enhancing research outcomes—this will show you’re ready to tackle challenges head-on!
Quantify Your Achievements:In this field, numbers count! Whether it's successful licensing deals, funding acquired for projects, or percentage increases in collaboration outcomes, include these metrics in your CV. They not only make your accomplishments more tangible but also demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Demonstrate Your Business Acumen:Understanding the business side is just as crucial as the tech side! When writing your application, weave in examples that illustrate your strategic thinking and your role in negotiations or partnerships. This balance of skills is what will set you apart for a full-time role at Goldstone Associates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Goldstone Associates
✨Demonstrate Your Tech Knowledge
Brush up on key technologies and trends in technology transfer and commercialization. Be ready to showcase your understanding of licensing agreements and the innovation lifecycle, as well as any specific tools or software used in the field.
✨Show Your Business Acumen
This role isn't just about tech; it's also about understanding the market. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach bringing a technology to market, including strategies for assessing commercial viability and potential partnerships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect case studies or hypothetical scenarios during the interview. Think about how you'd approach real-world challenges in technology transfer, like negotiating a deal or handling stakeholder concerns—this can help us get a sense of your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
In a full-time role, collaboration is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked with cross-functional teams in the past, particularly in scenarios that involved tech developers and business strategists coming together.
