Head of Innovation

Head of Innovation

Coventry Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead innovative projects and a team to drive manufacturing excellence.
  • Company: Unipart is a leader in British manufacturing, focusing on innovation and sustainability.
  • Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for growth, collaboration with universities, and a focus on net-zero initiatives.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and make a real impact.
  • Qualifications: Experience in commercial and technology innovation is essential; leadership skills are a plus.
  • Other info: Work at the unique Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering in collaboration with Coventry University.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

Unipart is at the heart of British manufacturing, bringing innovative products to production reality. The Manufacturing business is part of the Unipart Group of Companies. Our core capabilities are built on 40 years of industry experience and continuous improvement as a Manufacturing Partner for the world’s leading automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. As industry transitions to net-zero, we are solving the complex manufacturing challenges of tomorrow by applying our expertise in automation, joining technology, safety critical processes, supply chain management and design-for-manufacturing to scale-up production of future powertrain systems and diversifying our business into new sectors. At the centre of our manufacturing strategy is innovation, delivering unique and tailored supply chain solutions. With a proud heritage in the automotive industry, we have an established business that is also expanding into wider sectors while continuing to deliver engineering excellence for our customers in new technologies. Our approach applies industrial knowledge and experience to provide our customers with a full manufacturing and service, operated through Contract Manufacturing or a JV model.

As Head of Innovation, you will be responsible for leading Unipart’s activities at our Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (AME), a unique collaboration between Unipart and Coventry University, driving academic and research excellence. The role will require a combination of commercial and technology innovation experience to support business growth and a focus on expanding our advanced manufacturing capability.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Deliver high-quality engineering and research projects to support Unipart’s business growth strategy.
  • Lead a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and researchers in the AME delivering innovation excellence.
  • Develop a pipeline of grant funded research projects to grow skills & capability in advanced manufacturing.
  • Provide business intelligence, identify future market opportunities and keep us ahead of industry trends.
  • Create and run a pipeline of sustainability project initiatives to meet Unipart’s manufacturing net-zero goals.
  • Support external market engagement events showcasing Unipart innovation.
  • Provide effective coaching to business associates, ensuring the team utilises the Unipart Way tools.
  • Prepare RFQs, grant bids and business cases for new opportunities.
  • Have a customer-facing role in all commercial activities, including NPI, focused on manufacturing innovation.

Head of Innovation employer: Unipart Technologies Group

Unipart is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the forefront of British manufacturing innovation. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative culture fostered through our partnership with Coventry University, we provide unique opportunities for growth in advanced manufacturing. Our focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology not only positions us as leaders in the industry but also ensures that our employees are engaged in meaningful work that contributes to a net-zero future.
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Contact Detail:

Unipart Technologies Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Innovation

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Unipart's core values and their approach to innovation. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and advanced manufacturing will help you align your vision with theirs during discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, especially those involved in innovation. Attend industry events or webinars to gain insights and make connections that could be beneficial for your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on the latest trends in advanced manufacturing and technology innovation. Being knowledgeable about current developments will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to Unipart's growth.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss specific examples of successful projects you've led in innovation. Highlighting your experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and delivering results will demonstrate your capability for the Head of Innovation role.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Innovation

Innovation Management
Project Management
Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
Research and Development
Grant Writing
Market Analysis
Team Leadership
Collaboration Skills
Sustainability Practices
Customer Engagement
Technical Knowledge in Automation
Business Intelligence
Communication Skills
Coaching and Mentoring

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Innovation position at Unipart. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in engineering, research, and innovation.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams, managing engineering projects, and driving innovation. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality results in similar roles.

Showcase Your Vision: Articulate your vision for innovation within the manufacturing sector, particularly in relation to sustainability and advanced manufacturing capabilities. This will show Unipart that you are forward-thinking and aligned with their goals.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for innovation and manufacturing. Make sure to connect your personal values with Unipart’s mission and objectives.

How to prepare for a job interview at Unipart Technologies Group

✨Showcase Your Innovation Experience

As the Head of Innovation, it's crucial to demonstrate your past experiences in leading innovative projects. Prepare specific examples where you've successfully driven innovation in manufacturing or technology, highlighting the impact on business growth.

✨Understand Unipart's Vision

Familiarise yourself with Unipart's mission and values, especially their focus on sustainability and advanced manufacturing. This will help you align your answers with their goals and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their vision.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect to face technical questions related to advanced manufacturing processes and technologies. Brush up on current trends in automation and supply chain management, as well as any relevant academic research that could support your role.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

Since you'll be leading a multi-disciplinary team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you motivate teams. Share examples of how you've coached others and fostered collaboration to achieve project goals.

Head of Innovation
Unipart Technologies Group
U
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