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- Tasks: Lead a team to deliver innovative research software agreements for education and research.
- Company: Join Jisc, a pioneer in digital solutions for UK education and research.
- Benefits: Flexible work patterns, 31 days leave, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while shaping the future of research.
- Qualifications: Experience in software licensing and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Overview
Join to apply for the Licensing portfolio specialist role at Jisc
Salary: From £50,000 per annum (negotiable based on experience) + comprehensive benefits package
Jisc grade: PRS4 (internal use only)
Hours: 35 hours per week
Reports into: Head of Research
Working style: Hybrid – A blend of working from home and your nominated hub office. We have hubs located in London, Bristol, Manchester and Oxford.
For 30 years Jisc has pioneered digital solutions for UK education and research, transforming how knowledge is created, shared and used. We are uniquely positioned to protect, promote and lead the sector in digital and data transformation, making a difference to students, communities and society. Together, we are working to build a better digital future for education and research.
Raise your potential at Jisc through our culture of lifelong learning. At Jisc, we\\\’re all about growth, so embrace new challenges, sharpen your skills and shape a career that excites you.
The team
Our mission is to empower the UK’s research and education sectors through smart, cost-effective access to licensed software, digital tools, and content. As trusted negotiators for universities, colleges, and research institutions, we secure sector wide agreements that support innovation, compliance, and interoperability. Collaborating with strategic groups and professional bodies, we shape solutions that meet the evolving needs of our members across research, teaching, learning, and enterprise systems. This role sits within our Research portfolio, helping deliver the tools and technologies that enable world class discoveries and innovation.
The role
As a Licensing Portfolio Specialist, you’ll lead a team of licensing managers to deliver a dynamic portfolio of research software agreements that power the UK’s research and education sectors. Your expertise in research software, infrastructure, and systems will shape agreements that meet the evolving needs of institutions, funders, and customers while driving forward Jisc’s strategic vision. You’ll also deputise for the Head of Portfolio, playing a key role in steering direction and influence across the sector.
What you’ll be doing
- Collaborate with colleagues, sector groups, funders, customers, and other Licensing Portfolio Specialists to develop the strategy, processes and policies for your portfolio — ensuring the portfolio delivers a range of licensed product options that respond to member, funder and customer priorities, build on Jisc capabilities and expertise and contribute to the sustainability of Jisc.
- Be accountable for the development, performance, and strategic direction of your portfolio, ensuring alignment with Jisc’s product and commercial frameworks.
- Lead complex negotiations and business development activities, ensuring agreements reflect both technical requirements and commercial opportunities.
- Represent Jisc to members, funders, and customers, demonstrating the impact and value of licensing activities through clear reporting and strategic communications.
- Monitor trends in research software, data infrastructure, and digital services to inform licensing decisions and ensure the portfolio remains highly relevant and future-proof.
What we are looking for
- Strategic negotiator with a clear grasp of commercial and technical landscapes, applying inventive problem-solving to meet both institutional priorities and market demands.
- Experience in negotiating and managing software licensing with UK higher education and research.
- Track record of leading and developing high-performing teams in technical and commercial environments.
- Experience in engaging with suppliers, building relationships and managing relationships to support business development and performance.
- Ability to drive change by aligning technical expertise with commercial goals. Aligns technical and operational activities with broader strategic and financial objectives.
We know that sometimes people can be put off applying for a job if they think they can’t tick every box, so we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet 100% of the requirements, but if you feel this role is perfect for you. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles!
Specific patterns for working in the office are not mandated, and the frequency of time worked in the office is agreed with your manager. Meeting in person is something we value, so you may need to travel on occasion to any of our hub offices.
Why work for us?
At Jisc, every role is meaningful, and every individual is valued. We foster a culture of continuous learning and personal growth, offering opportunities to develop new skills and make a real impact in education and research. With a strong focus on work-life balance, we embrace flexible working that prioritises outcomes over hours, empowering you to create a rhythm that energises both your professional and personal life. Jisc’s culture is powered by our four guiding principles: putting customers first, driving innovation, creating impact, and championing inclusive collaboration to deliver sustainable outcomes and shape a better future.
Benefits
- Flexible work pattern, which can adapt to suit your schedules and personal commitments
- 31 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) that includes three closure days over Christmas
- Buy up to an additional 5 days leave during the flexible benefits window
- A range of wellbeing lifestyle benefits including company paid health care cash plan, mental health first aiders and support
- A company culture of continuous learning with access to thousands of LinkedIn Learning courses
- Allocated allowance of up to £250 to equip your home office
- Financial well-being support including access to preferential loan and savings plans, mortgage advice, will writing tools and support
- A wide range of discounts and cashback from retailers and big-name stores
- Family friendly policies including enhanced parental, maternity and paternity and co-parental leave as well as opportunity for career breaks
- Support your volunteering with up to 3 days volunteer leave
Equity, diversity and inclusion: Jisc believe our people make all the difference in cultivating an inclusive culture that welcomes ideas, encourages innovation, and values belonging. We work hard to create an equitable experience for our candidates and workforce which embraces all aspects of their identity.
Application process
Please let us know how we can best accommodate you throughout the recruitment process. We’re committed to making our process accessible and comfortable for everyone – just tell us what works best for you.
We review CVs as soon as we can and aim to provide an update on your application within 4 weeks of receiving it. You may hear from us sooner, so please keep an eye out for our emails or calls.
We’re really looking forward to getting to know the real you. While we encourage the use of AI tools to help you get started on your CV or cover letter, we encourage you to review your application before submitting. Make sure it truly reflects your own voice, experiences, and personality.
If you are currently a Jisc employee, please apply through your Dayforce Employee profile.
We have a thorough background screening process that verifies the details you share with us in your CV and your application. Any inaccurate information supplied during the application stages can lead to a job offer being withdrawn.
Sponsorship: Jisc has an active sponsor licence to recruit on a Skilled worker visa basis. Candidates wishing to apply who require sponsorship should determine the likelihood of obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship for the role by assessing their circumstances against the relevant Home Office criteria. Jisc does not offer any financial re-imbursement towards the applicant costs, such as re-location, skilled worker visa and dependant costs or the immigration health charge.
No agencies please.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Education and Information Technology
Industries
- Education and IT Services and IT Consulting
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Licensing portfolio specialist employer: Jisc
Contact Detail:
Jisc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Licensing portfolio specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and research sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Jisc and its mission. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you articulate why you're the perfect fit for the Licensing Portfolio Specialist role and show that you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Licensing Portfolio Specialist, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build confidence and refine your approach before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Jisc team and contributing to our mission of empowering education and research.
We think you need these skills to ace Licensing portfolio specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Licensing Portfolio Specialist role. Highlight your experience in negotiating software licenses and managing teams, as these are key aspects of the job. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or achievements that showcase your strategic negotiation skills.
Showcase Your Team Leadership: Since this role involves leading a team, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've developed high-performing teams and driven change in previous roles. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and motivate others!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Jisc!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jisc
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of licensing agreements and the specific software relevant to the role. Brush up on Jisc's mission and how they support the education sector, as this will show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've led or been involved in. Highlight how you navigated challenges and achieved successful outcomes, as this is crucial for the Licensing Portfolio Specialist role.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership
Be ready to discuss your experience in leading teams, especially in technical or commercial environments. Share specific instances where you motivated your team to achieve goals or adapt to changes.
✨Stay Current with Trends
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in research software and digital services. Being able to discuss these trends during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and strategic thinking.
