Commercial Development Manager (Digital) (University of Manchester Innovation Factory)

Commercial Development Manager (Digital) (University of Manchester Innovation Factory)

Full-Time 47700 - 47700 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The University of Manchester

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Bridge tech innovation and commercial viability, supporting digital ventures and strategic initiatives.
  • Company: Join the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, a leader in technology transfer.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary of £47,700, full-time role with growth opportunities.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on academic innovation and global reach.
  • Why this job: Make an impact in the digital space while working with cutting-edge technology.
  • Qualifications: Strong understanding of software development and digital products; excellent communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 47700 - 47700 £ per year.

The Innovation Factory’s Commercial Development Team is responsible for the critical analysis of the invention and the definition of its commercial potential, developing a detailed and reasoned case for commercialisation and the documentation required to support commercialisation activities.

The Commercial Development Team will understand the unmet need that the invention addresses, how the invention meets that need in a competitive manner and its potential value. They are responsible for defining and assessing scientific, customer and market data to determine an invention’s commercial potential. Following this analysis, the team will make a recommendation on the plan for exploitation.

Working in close collaboration with the Innovation Discovery Team and the Investment & Licensing team, they will develop a package of information that can be used to produce commercially compelling business plans, valuations and partner due-diligence activities and present their findings for approval at Stage Gate 2. The team is also responsible for communicating with the inventors the analysis and decisions made in the Innovation Factory about the invention.

Role Summary

Supporting the growth of our digital portfolio, the role bridges the gap between technical innovation and commercial viability, supporting digital ventures and implementing strategic initiatives.

Skills, Experience & Qualities:

  • Good understanding of software development, digital products and technology architecture
  • Ability to assess whether digital solutions are technically sound and well-built
  • Familiarity with modern development practices, tech stacks and digital business models
  • Understanding of key digital areas - AI/ML, SaaS, mobile, web platforms, data science
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Good project management and organisational skills
  • Can work independently and manage multiple priorities
  • Excellent communication skills - written and verbal
  • Comfortable when things aren't perfectly defined or structured
  • Genuinely interested in technology commercialisation
  • Entrepreneurial mindset and keen to learn
  • Diplomatic approach to working with different stakeholders
  • Self-motivated and keen to take initiative
  • Keen to support academic innovation and make an impact
  • Respects and works according to the Innovation Factory’s company values

The Innovation Factory aims to have a truly global reach and, with the scale and quality of research taking place at The University of Manchester, it has the ambition to be one of the world’s leading Technology Transfer organisations.

Commercial Development Manager (Digital) (University of Manchester Innovation Factory) employer: The University of Manchester

The University of Manchester Innovation Factory is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the organisation provides ample opportunities for professional development while supporting a culture that values integrity, teamwork, and high standards. Located in the vibrant city of Manchester, employees benefit from a rich academic atmosphere and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking digital ventures that have a global impact.

The University of Manchester

Contact Details:

The University of Manchester Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Commercial Development Manager (Digital) (University of Manchester Innovation Factory)

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their digital portfolio and think about how your skills can contribute to their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the Commercial Development Manager role. Highlight your understanding of software development and digital products, and don’t forget to showcase your analytical skills.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Innovation Factory team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make an impact!

We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Development Manager (Digital) (University of Manchester Innovation Factory)

Software Development
Digital Products
Technology Architecture
Technical Assessment
Modern Development Practices
Tech Stacks
Digital Business Models

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Commercial Development Manager role. Highlight your experience with digital products and technology architecture, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.

Show Off Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; give us examples of how you've used them in real situations. Whether it’s project management or problem-solving, we want to see how you’ve made an impact in previous roles.

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!

Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!

How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester

Know Your Digital Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your understanding of software development and digital products. Be ready to discuss modern tech stacks, AI/ML, and SaaS models. Showing that you can assess the technical soundness of digital solutions will impress the interviewers.

Show Off Your Analytical Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Think of examples where you've assessed market data or evaluated a product's commercial potential. This will highlight your fit for the role and your ability to contribute to the Commercial Development Team.

Communicate Clearly

Since excellent communication is key, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be prepared to explain complex ideas in simple terms, especially when discussing how an invention meets an unmet need. This will show your ability to work with various stakeholders.

Embrace the Entrepreneurial Spirit

Demonstrate your entrepreneurial mindset by sharing experiences where you've taken initiative or supported innovation. Show that you're genuinely interested in technology commercialisation and are keen to make an impact within the Innovation Factory.