At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects and build partnerships to drive economic growth in Greater Manchester.
- Company: Join Trafford & Stockport College Group, a community-focused organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, a generous pension, and tailored professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of innovation and skills while making a positive impact in local communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in partnership building and a passion for innovation and business growth.
Hours: 36.25 hours per week. Permanent. Full Time. 12 Months Fixed Term (with potential to extend to 3 years)
Salary: Fixed Point £50,000 per annum
Pension contribution: 15%
Location: Stockport and Altrincham campus with the requirement to travel to other campuses
Help Shape the Future of Innovation, Skills and Economic Growth Across Greater Manchester
TSCG is seeking two ambitious, commercially minded and highly collaborative Innovation Coordinators to lead place‑based innovation activity across Trafford and Stockport as part of the Greater Manchester Colleges Innovation Connector Network. Working closely with employers, local authorities, universities, innovation agencies and community partners, you will act as a key relationship‑builder and trusted connector within your borough. This is a unique opportunity to help shape a more inclusive, innovative and future‑ready economy across Greater Manchester.
About You
- We are looking for a proactive and relationship‑focused individual who is passionate about innovation, business growth and making a difference within local communities.
- You will have experience of working with employers, building strong partnerships and identifying opportunities to support growth, productivity and skills development.
- Confident in engaging a wide range of stakeholders, you will be a natural connector, able to influence, facilitate conversations and translate ideas into practical action.
- You will be organised, self‑motivated and comfortable working independently whilst contributing to a wider collaborative network across Greater Manchester.
About TSCG – Making a Difference, Together
At Trafford & Stockport College Group (TSCG), you belong to a team that’s committed to shaping brilliant futures – for students and colleagues alike. We believe in unlocking the potential that exists in everyone and when you work with us, your individual skills and experiences are valued. You’ll be part of a supportive and friendly community, where everyone brings their own unique perspective and strengths, and where the work you do is appreciated and celebrated. We’re deeply rooted in our local communities, with strong connections to businesses, industry, and universities. Together, we’re all working toward a shared mission: to elevate skills, create opportunities, shape futures, and transform lives. TSCG is not just a place to work – it’s a place to belong, to thrive, and to make a difference.
Exceptional Benefits Package
- 40 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous company pension contribution 15%
- Onsite Costa Coffee & subsidies staff canteen
- Employee Assistance Programme that extends the supports to your family members
- Tailored Professional Development plan
- Free onsite parking
All employees, including senior managers, will normally be appointed to the minimum point of the pay grade for the job. In certain cases, it may be appropriate to appoint to a higher point in the pay grade at the discretion of the People & Culture Director due to the candidate’s current salary, experience or qualifications. Staff at Trafford & Stockport College Group go above and beyond to ensure that our students get the best possible teaching and support to enable them to reach their ambitions. We expect the very highest standards for all students, and this is evidenced year after year by our achievement and progression outcomes. If you are passionate about championing inclusion, fostering positive employee experiences, and making a difference, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Equal Opportunity Employer
TSCG is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. As part of our commitment to being a Disability Confident Employer, all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements of the job, as set out in the job description and person specification, will be guaranteed an interview.
Safeguarding and Checks
The Trafford & Stockport College Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners and expects all staff to share this commitment. Employment at the Trafford & Stockport College Group is subject to an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) Check via the Disclosure and Barring Service and any post in regulated activity will also be subject to an additional barred list check. The Group will meet the costs associated with this. Please note that new guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 requires us to carry out an online search as part of our due diligence on successful candidates.
The role is open to direct applicants only. If you have not been called for interview within 3 weeks of the closing date, you should assume that on this occasion your application has been unsuccessful. Please note that due to the volume of applications we receive we are unfortunately not able to respond to each applicant.
This role may close early please submit your application early to avoid disappointment.
Innovation Connector in Manchester employer: Page Not In Use - Trafford College
At Trafford & Stockport College Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment. With a generous benefits package including 40 days of annual leave, a 15% pension contribution, and tailored professional development opportunities, we are dedicated to the growth and well-being of our staff. Located in Stockport, our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every employee feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our learners.
Contact Details:
Page Not In Use - Trafford College Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovation Connector in Manchester
✨Leverage Innovation Hubs
Tap into local innovation hubs and research centres. These places often host events and workshops where you can meet like-minded people and industry leaders. Plus, they might have job openings that aren't widely advertised, so keep your ears open!
✨Showcase Your Projects
Turn your past innovation projects into compelling stories. Create a portfolio showcasing your creativity and problem-solving skills. This can give hiring managers a real flavour of what you can bring to the table at companies like Page Not In Use - Trafford College.
✨Connect at Industry Conferences
Make it a point to attend industry conferences and seminars focused on R&D and innovation management. These events are fantastic for networking and often have job boards or career fairs where you can connect directly with firms looking for talent.
✨Use Your University’s Resources
If you're fresh out of university, don't forget to tap into your institution's career services. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies seeking new talent in R&D, especially for full-time roles. It's a good shortcut to landing a gig at places like Page Not In Use - Trafford College.
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Connector in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Creative Thinking:In innovation and R&D management, it's all about thinking outside the box. Make sure your CV highlights any projects or experiences that showcase your creative problem-solving skills. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've developed and implemented innovative ideas in previous roles.
Tailor Your Experience to R&D:When you're crafting your CV, focus on your experience in research and development. Highlight any relevant projects you've worked on, including methodologies used and results achieved. This will show us at Page Not In Use - Trafford College that you understand the R&D process and can contribute meaningfully to our projects.
Let Your Passion Shine in the Cover Letter:For a full-time role like this, your cover letter should reflect your genuine passion for innovation and development. Share your excitement about the opportunity to work at Page Not In Use - Trafford College and touch on how your goals align with our mission. This helps us see your motivation for wanting to join our team!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in R&D! Whenever possible, quantify your achievements in your CV. Whether it’s a percentage improvement in project outcomes, the budget size you’ve managed, or the number of successful products you've launched, these figures will help paint a clearer picture of your impact and capabilities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Page Not In Use - Trafford College
✨Show Off Your Innovative Thinking
In an Innovation R&D Management role at Page Not In Use - Trafford College, they're going to want to see how you approach problem-solving. Be ready to discuss previous projects where you introduced a new idea or process. Highlight your ability to think outside the box and provide examples where your innovations drove significant results.
✨Familiarity with Tools and Technologies
Make sure you're clued up on the latest tools and technologies related to innovation management, such as project management software and data analysis platforms. Being able to discuss specific tools you’ve used or have experience with will show Page Not In Use - Trafford College that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since this is a full-time gig, emphasising your teamwork skills will be essential. In innovation, collaboration often sparks the best ideas, so be ready to talk about how you've worked effectively within cross-functional teams in your past roles. Have concrete examples at the ready!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions in your interview that reflect real challenges you might face in the role. £At Page Not In Use - Trafford College, they might want to see how you handle tight deadlines or manage conflicting ideas within a team. Prepare some responses that demonstrate your critical thinking and decisiveness in high-pressure situations.
