EFI Sector Engagement Manager

We are looking for an experienced relationship manager, with an excellent track record for business development in a research, innovation and skills context, and a keen understanding of the key challenges faced by, and opportunities for data and technology driven innovation in, the Financial Services and Fintech sectors. You will have a substantial existing network across the public, private and 3rd Sector organisations that play a role both in the delivery of financial services, and in supporting innovation in the fintech sector. Innovation in the delivery of Financial Services is key to addressing some of the World’s most complex challenges, such as climate change, poverty, local and global inequalities, and the ethical use of data and AI.

As a member of Edinburgh Innovations who is embedded in the Business Engagement Team for the University’s Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI), you will play a key role in supporting EFI in making a positive societal impact in collaboration with the FS & Fintech sectors, including fulfilling EFI’s challenge-based mission, and supporting its objectives as a key Innovation Hub in the Data Driven Innovation Programme (supporting inclusive economic growth through innovation). This post is full-time (35 hours per week), and we welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible working patterns. We also support hybrid working on a non-contractual basis, offering a blend of home and on-site working to help you balance work and life effectively. The salary for this post is Grade 9 £58,380 to £73,947 per annum.

The experience and qualities we are looking for:

• Extensive business development and commercial experience, ideally within organisations relevant to the FS & Fintech sectors, including excellent client relationship management skills;
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of FS & Fintech gained via substantial experience working within or close to the sectors;
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented to the sectors by Data Driven Innovation;
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with demonstrable ability to successfully network with both academia and industry.

At Edinburgh Innovations (EI), our culture is built on three core values: Collaborative, Progressive and Innovative. We believe the best results come from working together, sharing ideas, and supporting one another. We’re always looking forward, embracing change, challenging assumptions, and pushing boundaries to grow. Innovation is at the heart of what we do, encouraging creativity and fresh thinking at every level of the business.

If you thrive in a team-driven environment that values bold ideas and continuous improvement, you’ll fit right in.

Championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. At EI we celebrate diversity in all its forms and actively seek to create a team that reflects the communities around us. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities because different perspectives make us stronger.

As a valued member of our team, you can look forward to:

• A competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience
• An exciting, positive, and creative workplace that’s as rewarding as it is challenging
• A generous 40 days of combined annual leave and public holiday entitlement
• A comprehensive benefits package, including a defined contribution pension scheme (currently 3.5/4.5% employee and 9/14.5% employer contributions), family-friendly policies, flexible working options, and more
• Ongoing support to develop your skills, grow your career, and recognise your achievements

At EI, we look for people who live our core behaviours in everything they do. You work well with others, build strong relationships, and believe that teamwork drives better outcomes. You're curious, creative, and not afraid to challenge the norm to find smarter solutions. You take responsibility for your work, follow through on commitments, and are driven to deliver results. You seek feedback, grow from experiences, and are always looking to improve. You genuinely care about the impact of your work on colleagues, customers, and the wider community.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

Application Information: Please submit your CV along with a covering letter that tells us why you’re interested in the role and how your skills and experience make you a strong fit.

Right to Work: All applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer sponsorship for this role. You will be required to provide documentation as part of the recruitment process to confirm your eligibility to work in the UK.

Key dates to note: The closing date for applications is 17 May 2026. Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:55pm GMT. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browser's local time zone. We expect to hold interviews in late May.