At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive commercial growth and lead business development for innovative energy solutions.
- Company: Join the University of Strathclyde's leading centre for decarbonisation and energy innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for impactful leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity to represent PNDC at high levels and shape the future of energy.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of the energy transition and make a real difference in sustainability.
- Qualifications: Proven leader with experience in driving growth and building industry partnerships.
The predicted salary is between 69488 - 73709 £ per year.
Salary Range £69,488 - £73,709 per annum Full Time Equivalent 1
Closing Date 12 July 2026
Location PNDC, Wardpark, Cumbernauld, G68 0EF and ANZIC, Inchinnan, PA4 9AF
Overview
PNDC is the University of Strathclyde's flagship industry‑facing centre focusing on power networks, decarbonised heat, and decarbonised transport. We validate future energy solutions, de‑risk them, and accelerate them to market. Working at the intersection of policy, industry, and deep technical capability, we turn breakthrough technology into deployable reality. With the 2025 launch of our Advanced Net Zero Innovation Centre (ANZIC), we are scaling our capacity to test and integrate high‑power net‑zero solutions across transport, heat, power electronics, electric machines, and whole energy systems. Four years of consecutive double‑digit growth tells its own story, and we are looking for a commercial leader to take us to the next level.
Responsibilities
- Own and drive PNDC’s commercial growth strategy, translating world‑class technical capability into sustained revenue, industry partnerships, and measurable impact.
- Lead business development, major bids, stakeholder engagement and all commercial functions across both PNDC facilities.
- Own the rolling 5‑year financial strategy and business plan, ensuring high utilisation of both facilities while expanding the breadth and depth of organisations served.
- Lead multiple £1m+ bids annually, drive cross‑faculty strategic partnerships, and extend PNDC’s commercial reach beyond its own walls.
- Take full ownership of the business development function: optimise the sales process, build robust pipelines, and drive conversion with industry‑required pace and rigor.
- Strengthen government and policy relationships to position PNDC at the centre of funding opportunities as the energy transition accelerates.
- Ensure marketing and communications are at the level required to raise PNDC’s national and international profile as a leading force in decarbonisation.
- Manage IP commercialisation, governance, KPI delivery, and cross‑university collaboration.
- Deputise for the CEO and represent PNDC with customers, partners, government and across the University of Strathclyde.
Qualifications
- Commercially proven leader with a track record of driving growth in a technically complex, innovation‑led environment.
- Experience of winning and delivering large‑scale bids, building industry partnerships from the ground up, and navigating public funding and private investment intersections.
- Strong knowledge of the energy sector, or the ability to move fast within it, with presence and credibility to operate at a senior level across industry, academia and government.
- Strategically ambitious and operationally rigorous, seeing the scale of the Net Zero transition as an opportunity rather than a constraint.
Department: Power Networks Demonstration Centre
Commercial Director - PNDC in Glasgow employer: University of Strathclyde
At PNDC, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth and development, providing employees with unique opportunities to lead transformative projects at the forefront of decarbonisation. Located in Cumbernauld and Inchinnan, our state-of-the-art facilities not only support cutting-edge research but also offer a dynamic environment where your contributions can make a real impact on the future of energy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Director - PNDC in Glasgow
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughUniversity of Strathclyde's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through University of Strathclyde's website for the full-time Commercial Director - PNDC role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Director - PNDC in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at University of Strathclyde. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Strathclyde
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of University of Strathclyde.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to University of Strathclyde.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
