Director of Business Development, Research & Innovation

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for advancing research, innovation, and business development in higher education, forging Business-to-Business partnerships that translate knowledge and ideas into real-world impact?

We are seeking a strong and visionary Director of Business Development, Research & Innovation to develop and lead our research and innovation strategy, foster innovation, impact and partnerships, and drive business and enterprise initiatives. In this high-impact leadership role, you will help shape and deliver the University's strategic agenda, ensuring world-class support for our academics, and increase income, enterprise, and continuous improvement.

As Director of Business Development, Research & Innovation your key responsibilities will include:

 Working collaboratively with our academic community to deliver the University's Research & Innovation strategy.

Leading and developing a team of business development professionals supporting academics to collaborate with industry and other partners.Acting as an advisor to the Executive Group in the development of strategy and leading the development of policies, frameworks and processes.

Success in this role requires:

Proven track record in Business-to-Business activitiesA deep understanding of the UK HR research and innovation landscapeExceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skillsThe ability to navigate complexity and made decisive moves in the face of uncertaintyCommitment to continuous improvementA collaborative leadership style that breaks down silos and fosters cross-functional synergies

If you are an inspiring and inclusive leader ready to shape the future of research, innovation, and business development at the University, we would want to hear from you!

What we can offer in return:

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs) 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributionsCorporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health

For more information about what you can look forward to if you join us, visit our dedicated webpage: Working at Kent

We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are: http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/

Please see the links below to view the candidate brief and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact E.L.Milton@kent.ac.uk quoting reference number CSF-1065-25.

Closing Date: 11 May 2025

Section: Senior Management