At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a groundbreaking programme on food, brain health, and mental wellness for young people.
- Company: Join the William Templeton Foundation, dedicated to improving youth mental health.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contribution, hybrid working, and flexible hours.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth in a dynamic, collaborative environment focused on impactful change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and communities through innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in programme delivery and partnership-building.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
The William Templeton Foundation for Young People’s Mental Health (YPMH) is seeking an experienced and versatile programme leader to lead the development and delivery of our new three‑year Food, Brain and Mental Health programme. This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of evidence, innovation, implementation and partnership‑building – identifying where food and nutrition could make the greatest difference to brain development and mental health, and progressing the most promising opportunities towards practical, equitable and scalable action. The programme has a particular focus on improving outcomes for children, young people and communities experiencing disadvantage.
The successful candidate will:
- Lead the day‑to‑day delivery of the programme
- Translate complex evidence and stakeholder knowledge into clear priorities and opportunities for practical action
- Design and facilitate collaborative processes for problem definition, opportunity identification, prioritisation and intervention development
- Support the development, testing and implementation of selected interventions and approaches
- Build partnerships across research, health and social care, policy, education, communities, charities and the food sector.
We are looking for someone with a strong combination of analytical thinking, programme delivery, innovation and relationship‑building capability. Candidates do not need to be specialists in every aspect of food, nutrition, neuroscience or mental health, but should have the curiosity and judgement to work effectively across disciplines and bring in expertise where needed.
Salary: £50,000–£55,000, depending on experience, plus a 10% employer pension contribution
Location: ideaSpace West, Cambridge, with hybrid working
Working pattern: ideally full‑time; part‑time or flexible working considered
Contract: three‑year fixed‑term employment contract, reflecting the current duration of programme funding
Right to work: applicants must have the right to work in the UK
Closing date: 5.00 pm, Monday 24 August 2026
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview. First interviews will be conducted online, with second interviews held in person.
Food, Brain and Mental Health Innovation and Partner Engagement Manager in Cambridge employer: Mhinnovation
The William Templeton Foundation for Young People’s Mental Health is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead innovative programmes that directly impact the mental health and well-being of children and young people. With a strong commitment to collaboration and community engagement, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that values flexibility and professional growth, all while working in the vibrant environment of Cambridge. Join us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those experiencing disadvantage, backed by a competitive salary and generous pension contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food, Brain and Mental Health Innovation and Partner Engagement Manager in Cambridge
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Mhinnovation.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Mhinnovation!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Mhinnovation, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Mhinnovation, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Food, Brain and Mental Health Innovation and Partner Engagement Manager in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Mhinnovation, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Mhinnovation.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Mhinnovation. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Mhinnovation. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mhinnovation
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Mhinnovation’s mission.
