Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives to shape the future of our Digital Innovation Hub.
- Company: Join Leeds Beckett University, a leader in business partnerships and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and access to fitness facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student enterprise and connect with industry leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in digital innovation, project management, and partnership development required.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to collaboration and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The role of Strategic Program Development Partner - Digital Innovation and Enterprise Hub is an interim position for one year initially. This is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of the centre, build strong networks, and deliver a clear business plan that will underpin its long-term success.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership to establish the Hub’s direction and priorities, delivering its first business plan.
- Lead co-creation with senior stakeholders to shape the Hub’s content and activities.
- Build strong external partnerships with funders, policymakers, and industry to position the Hub within the regional innovation ecosystem.
- Articulate the Hub’s value proposition to attract funding, sponsorship, and commercial opportunities, ensuring long term sustainability.
- Champion student enterprise and employability through innovative programmes that connect students with industry and entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Foster effective collaboration and constructive working relationships across the university and with key colleagues.
Qualifications
- Expertise in digital innovation and technology, with substantial experience in enterprise, programme, or project management across higher education or industry.
- A proven track record in developing and delivering business cases and strategic plans, and in cultivating high impact partnerships with external organisations.
- Demonstrated success in securing funding and driving revenue growth within the digital innovation and technology sectors.
- Outstanding communication and influencing skills, able to engage senior leaders, external partners, and diverse audiences with creativity, collaboration, and impact.
- Experience of supporting student enterprise and entrepreneurship would be desirable.
Why Join Us?
Leeds Beckett University has a national reputation for outstanding business partnerships and knowledge exchange. Our work with industry, the public and third sectors, and research partners has been consistently recognised in the Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) where LBU is currently ranked in the top 20% of UK universities for Working with Business, Working with the Public and Third Sectors, and Research Partnerships. We are also recognised for our strong support of graduate start-ups and continuing professional development (CPD), reflecting our commitment to turning academic insight into real-world impact. This reputation means you will be joining a university that is deeply embedded in the regional and national innovation ecosystem, with strong external networks and a proven track record of delivering value to partners and communities. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic institution that is committed to collaboration, innovation and impact. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the centre’s development and future direction. You will be working with committed colleagues, shaping strategy, and building partnerships that will define the centre’s success.
Closing date
Closing date Sunday 8th February 2026 (2359).
Benefits and Equality
Working here means you’ll also have access to a wide range of benefits including our generous pension schemes, excellent holiday entitlements, flexible working, reduced study fees, subsidised fitness facilities and a lot more. We welcome applications from all individuals and particularly from Black and minority ethnic candidates as members of these groups are currently under-represented at this level of post. All appointments will be based on merit.
Strategic Program Development Partner (Interim, 12 months initially) in Leeds employer: Leeds Beckett University
Contact Detail:
Leeds Beckett University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Program Development Partner (Interim, 12 months initially) in Leeds
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential partners or stakeholders. Building those relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Showcase Your Value
When you get the chance to chat with someone about the role, make sure to highlight how your skills align with the Hub’s goals. Talk about your experience in digital innovation and how you can help shape their business plan. Make it clear why you’re the perfect fit!
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
This role is all about teamwork, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully worked with others in the past. Share examples of how you’ve built partnerships or led co-creation efforts. It’ll show you’re ready to hit the ground running!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the exciting work we do at Leeds Beckett University.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Program Development Partner (Interim, 12 months initially) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in digital innovation and strategic leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Strategic Program Development Partner, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past experiences, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to secure funding and build partnerships. We love numbers and success stories, so let us know how you’ve made an impact in previous roles.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can engage diverse audiences and foster collaboration, so don’t be afraid to show us your unique approach and communication style.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and allows us to keep track of all applicants efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds Beckett University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in digital innovation and enterprise management. Brush up on the latest trends and technologies in the sector, as well as any relevant case studies or success stories that demonstrate your expertise.
✨Build Your Network
Before the interview, think about the key stakeholders you might work with. Be ready to discuss how you would build strong partnerships with funders and industry leaders. Show them you understand the importance of collaboration in driving the Hub’s success.
✨Articulate Your Vision
Prepare to share your ideas for the Hub’s first business plan. Think about how you would position it within the regional innovation ecosystem and attract funding. This is your chance to showcase your strategic thinking and creativity!
✨Engage and Influence
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to engage with senior leaders and diverse audiences, so be ready to demonstrate how you can influence and inspire others. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your points.
