At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives to enhance knowledge exchange and partnerships at SOAS University.
- Company: SOAS University of London, a leader in global higher education.
- Benefits: 44 days holiday, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to innovation and social impact.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education and research while shaping future partnerships.
- Qualifications: Experience in leadership, business development, and knowledge exchange.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 € per year.
Department: Research and Knowledge Exchange Directorate
Contract Type: Permanent
Grade: 9
Location: Bloomsbury
Hours: 35 hours per week
SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.
About the Role
The role will provide strategic and operational leadership to grow the University’s external engagement, business development and income generation activities, particularly across the social sciences and humanities. The role is responsible for strengthening the University’s knowledge exchange, innovation and enterprise performance in a way that is financially sustainable, values‑led and aligned with the University’s academic mission. You will have line management responsibility for two small teams within the Research and Knowledge Exchange Directorate (RKED) focussed on (I) developing partnerships with a range of external clients who can draw upon the School’s unique expertise and broker contracts for research, consultancy and CPD and (II) maximising the impact of our portfolio of underpinning research.
About the Department
The Research and Knowledge Exchange Directorate (RKED) is a growing team that manages the whole lifecycle of research and knowledge exchange activities at SOAS, from supporting researchers to applying for funding, to generating research impact, and commercialising new knowledge.
About you
You will be part of an executive team of four within the Research and Knowledge Exchange Directorate comprising Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange, Head of Research and Knowledge Exchange Delivery, Head of Research Culture and Excellence, and Head of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise. You will work closely with Heads of College to set ambition and determine priorities in relation to knowledge exchange across the School. You will lead through others to build a strategic and operational space for an enterprising and engaged culture which develops and sustains equitable partnerships in line with SOAS’ vision, mission and strategy.
What We Offer
- Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 5 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
- Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
- Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future.
- Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
- Health and Well‑being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
- Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
- Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.
How to Apply
Please complete the online application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement. Closing date: 18th May 2026. Interviews to be held: TBC.
Use of AI
While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.
Further information
Please note that the application system does not currently have a save‑and‑return feature. To avoid losing any information, we strongly encourage you to complete and submit your application in one sitting. Make sure you have all necessary details ready before you begin. Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. We are not able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.
If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS. If you would like an informal chat regarding this role, please kindly contact Dr Rachel Lawlor via rl23@soas.ac.uk. For information on how and why SOAS processes personal data about its job applicants, please read our Job Applicant Notice.
Head of Knowledge Exchange, Enterprise and Impact employer: SOAS University of London
SOAS University of London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous holiday entitlement, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to learning and development, staff are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while contributing to impactful research and knowledge exchange initiatives. Located in Bloomsbury, the university fosters an inclusive environment that encourages collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Knowledge Exchange, Enterprise and Impact
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and connect with alumni. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its culture. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission and values. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence. Focus on articulating your achievements and how they relate to the role of Head of Knowledge Exchange.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at SOAS and contributing to our vision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Knowledge Exchange, Enterprise and Impact
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Head of Knowledge Exchange, Enterprise and Impact. Highlight relevant experience in strategic leadership, partnership development, and income generation activities that align with SOAS's mission.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your unique skills and experiences that make you the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about how you can contribute to the growth of SOAS’s external engagement and knowledge exchange.
Be Authentic:While we appreciate the use of AI tools, remember to keep your application personal and authentic. Share your genuine passion for the role and how your values align with SOAS’s vision and mission.
Prepare for Submission:Before hitting that submit button, double-check that you have all necessary details ready. Since our application system doesn’t allow saving, it’s best to complete everything in one go. And don’t forget to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at SOAS University of London
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in SOAS's mission and the specifics of the Head of Knowledge Exchange role. Familiarise yourself with their strategic plan and how it aligns with your vision for external engagement and partnerships.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and driving business development. Think about how you've successfully managed projects or initiatives that align with knowledge exchange and enterprise performance.
✨Engage with Their Values
SOAS is values-led, so be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs. Reflect on your commitment to equitable partnerships and how you can contribute to a culture of engagement and innovation.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the department. Inquire about their current challenges in knowledge exchange or how they measure the impact of their research initiatives.
