At a Glance
- Tasks: Support diverse businesses in their innovation journey and provide tailored advice.
- Company: Join Invest Northern Ireland, a leader in innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexi-time, generous leave, and a solid pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping SMEs thrive through effective innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in assessing innovative projects and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and community support.
The predicted salary is between 47304 - 66426 £ per year.
Invest Northern Ireland is looking for ambitious Innovation and Growth Specialists to join our Innovate NI Team which sits within our Innovation, Research and Development Division, based in our Bedford Square Headquarters.
The role involves supporting a diverse range of businesses from early-stage start-ups to mid-sized companies across all sectors, ensuring each business receives the right advice and support at the right time, tailored to their specific innovation journey.
Reporting to the Northern Ireland Project Manager for Innovate NI, the post holder will play a key role in delivering the Innovate NI programme. Innovate NI is a Department for the Economy initiative, delivered by Invest NI, aimed at helping SMEs achieve growth and success through effective innovation.
The candidate will have experience within the last 8 years of assessing and understanding innovative business projects, including identifying specific needs and challenges faced by SMEs. A track record of supporting and advising SMEs across key stages of the innovation pathway, whilst building and maintaining effective relationships, is essential.
With excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the candidate will be a confident and capable presenter, delivering clear and compelling messages in formal and informal settings. Strong analytical skills are required, with the ability to read, interpret, and understand complex information across a variety of business sectors and innovation projects.
Benefits include:
- Hybrid working
- Flexi-time
- Access to NICS Pension Scheme
- 25 days annual leave plus 12 statutory days
For further information and to submit your application, click the apply icon. Closing date for receipt of applications is noon on 30th January 2026 (GMT).
Invest NI is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community. At this time, it particularly welcomes applications from females, people with disabilities and from minority ethnic groups.
Innovate Executive in Bedford employer: Invest NI
Contact Detail:
Invest NI Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovate Executive in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn to find folks who are already in the innovation space. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with SMEs and innovation projects. Share specific examples of how you've helped businesses grow and overcome challenges – that’s what they want to hear!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its innovation initiatives. Understand their goals and challenges so you can tailor your responses. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, go ahead and hit that apply button!
We think you need these skills to ace Innovate Executive in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Innovate Executive. We want to see how you can support businesses on their innovation journey, so be specific about your relevant skills and experiences.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves advising and presenting to various businesses, it’s crucial to demonstrate your communication prowess. Use clear and engaging language in your application to reflect your ability to convey complex information effectively.
Highlight Your Analytical Abilities: We’re looking for someone who can interpret complex information across different sectors. In your application, share examples of how you've successfully assessed innovative projects and provided tailored advice to SMEs.
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’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Invest NI
✨Know Your Innovation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in innovation and growth strategies. Familiarise yourself with Invest NI's Innovate programme and be ready to discuss how you can support SMEs on their innovation journey.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully assessed and supported innovative business projects. Highlight your ability to identify challenges faced by SMEs and how you provided tailored advice.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice delivering your ideas in a clear and compelling manner. Since the role requires excellent communication skills, consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to refine your presentation style.
✨Build Rapport
Remember that building relationships is key in this role. Think about how you can connect with the interviewers on a personal level, perhaps by sharing relevant anecdotes or showing genuine interest in their work at Invest NI.