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- Tasks: Lead Innovate Surrey Ltd, driving innovation and commercialisation across the university.
- Company: Join the University of Surrey, a leader in cutting-edge research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days holiday, flexible working, and performance bonuses.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to create impactful innovations and enhance global challenges.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in investment or university commercialisation required.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow your team while making a significant social impact.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The University of Surrey has an impressive heritage in finding innovative solutions to challenging real-world problems. From space technology, quantum laser, and automobile design to telecommunications and disease detection, Surrey’s research has long been at the cutting edge of some of the UK’s most exciting and disruptive innovations. We have big ambitions to grow our innovation ecosystem, and we are looking for an experienced, driven, creative, and collaborative leader to direct our newest venture, Innovate Surrey Ltd, driving commercialisation and enterprise activity across the university and taking it to new levels and supporting our ambition to be recognised internationally as a hub for game-changing innovation.
Through the new development of Innovate Surrey Ltd (ISL), this role will steer an ambitious course for innovation at Surrey. It will empower researchers, students, and industry to pursue their innovation journey, consistently enhancing value at every stage. ISL’s commitment to excellence will result in outstanding commercial achievements and knowledge sharing, enhancing the University\’s reputation and stature, while also driving greater financial returns to sustainably support its future growth and initiatives. The four key objectives for ISL are:
About the role
The Managing Director of ISL role represents a unique and exciting opportunity to develop and lead the growth of ISL in its mission to maximise the economic and social impact of the University of Surrey\’s innovation portfolio. The role encompasses managing IP identification, protection, and commercialisation, as well as managing and growing the university seed funds, through collaborations with venture funds and the investment community.
The role sits within the Research, Innovation and Impact ecosystem, reporting directly to the Pro Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation and has a close working relationship with the Director of Research, Innovation and Impact, and the Director of Surrey Innovation District, who manage the University’s research and innovation service and business and academic engagement at the Surrey Research Park and regional development portfolio.
The role holder will line manage a team including technology transfer and IP management, supporting their development and delivery of key objectives. It is expected that as you develop and grow the portfolio, you will also grow and develop your team.
About you
To be successful in this role you will need to evidence the following:
What we can offer
In addition to salary, we offer:
Managing Director of Innovate Surrey Ltd employer: University of Surrey
Contact Detail:
University of Surrey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director of Innovate Surrey Ltd
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the innovation and commercialisation sectors. Attend industry events, seminars, or workshops related to university partnerships and technology transfer to meet potential collaborators and stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the University of Surrey's current research projects and innovation initiatives. Understanding their existing ecosystem will help you identify areas where you can contribute and make a significant impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership experience by discussing past roles where you've successfully managed teams and projects. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've driven innovation and commercial success in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your strategic thinking skills by preparing insights on potential funding opportunities and partnerships that could benefit Innovate Surrey Ltd. This will show your proactive approach and understanding of the role's objectives.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director of Innovate Surrey Ltd
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Managing Director position at Innovate Surrey Ltd. Make sure you understand the key objectives and responsibilities, as well as the skills and experience required.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant leadership experience, particularly in investment or university commercialisation. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also reflects your passion for innovation and collaboration. Address how you can contribute to the University of Surrey's goals and values.
Showcase Your Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements that illustrate your ability to deliver results in complex environments. This could be successful projects, funding secured, or partnerships developed.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Surrey
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Managing Director, your leadership skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and projects in the past, particularly in complex environments. Highlight any experience you have in university commercialisation or investment.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
This role requires strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Prepare to discuss how you've approached complex issues in previous roles and the creative solutions you've implemented. Use real-world examples to illustrate your thought process.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Excellent communication is key for this position. Be ready to explain how you've effectively collaborated with various stakeholders in your past roles. Consider sharing instances where your communication skills led to successful partnerships or project outcomes.
✨Prepare for Questions on Innovation
Given the focus on innovation at Innovate Surrey Ltd, be prepared to discuss your views on fostering an innovative culture. Think about how you can contribute to enhancing the university's innovation ecosystem and be ready to share ideas on attracting investments for early-stage IPs.
