Commercialisation Associate

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Ploughshare is a team of around 30 passionate innovators, dedicated to unlocking world-class research and turning it into real-world impact. Originally established to commercialise research from the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), we now work across the Ministry of Defence (MOD), AWE, and a growing network of defence and non-defence organisations in both the public and private sectors.

We identify, protect, and accelerate the commercialisation of high‑potential technologies – from life‑saving sepsis diagnostics tools, to advanced drone‑entanglement systems and miniaturised 2G–5G antennas for body‑worn communications.

With 20 years of specialist expertise, we use our proven Discover, Liberate, Scale, Spinout framework to guide innovation from concept to market – enabling clients to diversify their income while delivering real-world benefits that improve lives and strengthen society.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for experienced commercialisation experts who can operate without close supervision, hit the ground running and deliver results from day one.

This contract role will work on an ad-hoc, project-by-project basis, providing high‑level support to accelerate the transfer of innovative technologies into licences, spinouts, and high‑growth ventures. You will work in close collaboration with Ploughshare’s core commercialisation team, stepping in as needed to support key initiatives and projects.

You’ll bring strong commercial acumen, creative flair, and a start‑up mindset with the ability to identify and shape new opportunities, implement impactful ideas and processes, and navigate complex challenges independently. A relevant degree is desirable, along with a demonstrable track record in commercialising cutting‑edge technologies. Knowledge of Intellectual Property Rights and the patent process is highly advantageous.

In partnership with the internal commercialisation team, you will help transform innovations into scalable ventures, creating measurable impact for the UK, working effectively at all levels and building strong relationships across the MOD and private defence sector.

Role focus

• Work with Ploughshare teams to deliver fast-paced technology transfer projects, service contracts and their objectives.
• Provide support in delivering Ploughshare and its customers/clients IP commercialisation strategy into industry to drive business growth.
• Support Ploughshare teams in business development activities to bring new clients into Ploughshare.

Undertake commercialisation activities to support Ploughshare teams including:

• Establishment and launch of spin-out ventures, transforming innovative technologies into independent commercial businesses.
• Identification and management of technology portfolios from our IP source organisations.
• Participate in commercialisation management reviews of opportunities, during which collaborative decisions will be taken as to whether to commercialise each opportunity.
• Develop potential application areas for our technology.
• Undertake market research to establish addressable market sizes by geography, by sector, problem and opportunity areas, by desk-based research and interactions with key industrial contacts.
• Craft and document Value Propositions, Licensing Strategies, Spin-out business plans and necessary collateral to accelerate delivery of impact.
• Support ploughshare teams on licencing deals or spin out opportunities (with guidance from VPs or Commercial Director).

Location

Ploughshare employees are home‑based, but we get together frequently and believe in the importance of face‑to‑face contact with our clients. There is therefore regular travel within the UK (including Wiltshire, Hampshire, Manchester, and London) with occasional international trips – all at the company’s expense when required to travel.

Clearance

Applicants will need to apply for and possess the appropriate level of clearance as part of their employment. Accordingly, we are unable to accept candidates who do not meet the following criteria:

• Be sole UK nationals (dual nationality will result in sponsorship being denied).
• Hold a British passport.
• Have resided in the UK for a minimum of five years.

Diversity and Inclusion statement

Ploughshare recognises that people from a wide range of backgrounds bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and valuable experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Temporary

Job function

• Business Development and Product Management

Industries

• Professional Services

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