Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative strategies to boost economic growth and collaboration across the North East.
- Company: Join the North East Combined Authority, a champion of inclusive economic development.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for impactful leadership and community engagement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of the North East economy and drive meaningful change in your community.
- Qualifications: Proven senior management experience in innovation and economic strategy is essential.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join us as Head of Innovation and Economic Strategy. We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to join the North East Combined Authority (North East CA) as Head of Innovation and Economic Strategy. This pivotal role will shape and deliver strategies that accelerate innovation, productivity, sector development and business growth across the region, ensuring alignment with our Corporate Plan and strategic priorities.
As part of our senior management team, you will provide expert leadership and strategic advice, working closely with partners including local authorities, universities, businesses, and national government. You will champion collaboration, foster strong stakeholder relationships, and influence policy and funding decisions to unlock opportunities for inclusive economic growth.
You will oversee the design and delivery of high-impact programmes that drive innovation adoption, AI impact and digital infrastructure, strengthen supply chains, and build world-class testbeds and innovation districts. With responsibility for managing resources and securing external funding, you will lead a high-performing team committed to shaping a vibrant, competitive, and future-ready North East economy.
We are proud to be an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented in senior roles, including women, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.
Responsibilities:- Oversee the design and delivery of high-impact programmes that drive innovation adoption, AI impact and digital infrastructure, strengthen supply chains, and build world-class testbeds and innovation districts.
- Manage resources and secure external funding; lead a high-performing team committed to shaping a vibrant, competitive, and future-ready North East economy.
- Provide expert leadership and strategic advice, working with partners including local authorities, universities, businesses, and national government; champion collaboration and influence policy and funding decisions.
- Experience in senior management with a track record of leadership in innovation and economic strategy; ability to influence policy and funding decisions to unlock opportunities for inclusive economic growth.
For informal discussion or further information about this role please contact: Rob Hamilton, Assistant Director of Economic Growth and Innovation by email. Applications are being managed by North East Jobs. To apply please click on the link provided in this posting. Closing date for applications: Thursday 05 February 2026 at 23:59.
For further information about the North East Combined Authority please see the authority’s website.
Head of Innovation and Economic Strategy in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NECA)
Contact Detail:
North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NECA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Innovation and Economic Strategy in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your industry! Attend events, join online forums, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Don’t just talk about your skills; demonstrate them! Create a portfolio or case studies that highlight your achievements in innovation and economic strategy. This will make you stand out when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Prepare for Informal Chats
Before applying, reach out for informal discussions with current employees or industry leaders. This not only gives you insights into the role but also shows your genuine interest in the position. Plus, it’s a great way to get your name out there!
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Innovation and Economic Strategy in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Innovation and Economic Strategy role. Highlight your leadership experience in innovation and economic strategy, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Vision: We want to see your vision for driving innovation and economic growth. Use your written application to share your ideas on how you would approach the role and what strategies you would implement to foster collaboration and influence policy decisions.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you're the right fit.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join our team at North East CA.
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NECA)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends in innovation and economic strategy. Brush up on recent policies, funding opportunities, and successful programmes in the North East. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams and influenced policy decisions in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this role requires strong leadership and strategic thinking.
✨Build Connections
Since collaboration is key in this role, think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build relationships with various stakeholders. Share experiences where you’ve worked with local authorities, universities, or businesses to achieve common goals.
✨Be Inclusive and Open-Minded
As an inclusive employer, the North East Combined Authority values diverse perspectives. Be prepared to discuss how you promote inclusivity in your work and how you plan to ensure that all voices are heard in your strategies.
