Innovation Development Officer (Project Development)

## Explore a Dynamic Role Driving University-Industry Innovation This opportunity presents a compelling career path for ambitious professionals eager to bridge the gap between academic excellence and real-world impact. If you are passionate about fostering innovation, building strategic partnerships, and leading transformative projects, this role offers a stimulating and rewarding environment. ### Advantages for Aspiring Candidates: This position is designed for individuals who thrive on intellectual challenge and enjoy collaborative environments. Here are some of the key advantages you can expect: * Pioneering Innovation: You will be at the forefront of developing new Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) and similar projects, driving innovation across diverse sectoral and disciplinary boundaries. This is an opportunity to shape the future of research and its application. * Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Your role will involve engaging with cutting-edge developments across a wide spectrum of fields, including science and technology, social sciences, and arts & humanities. This continuous learning ensures a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work experience. * Strategic Partnership Building: You will hone your skills in identifying opportunities, understanding diverse motivations, and forging strong relationships with leading academics and industry leaders. This is crucial for building successful, long-term collaborations. * Project Leadership and Coordination: This role offers the chance to lead and coordinate complex projects, requiring you to synthesise information, manage multiple stakeholders, and develop compelling proposals that meet stringent funder criteria. * Impactful Contribution: You will play a vital role in a high-performing KTP Office, directly contributing to the University's objectives of building industry partnerships, securing innovation funding, and establishing the University as a strategic innovation partner. The tangible impact of your work will be a significant source of professional satisfaction. * Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: The role is based on a university campus with the scope for hybrid working and a commitment to discussing flexible working arrangements. This provides a foundation for a healthy work-life balance. * Comprehensive Benefits Package: The University offers an attractive package including generous holiday entitlement (42 days per year including bank holidays and custom closure days), a robust pension scheme with life assurance, and excellent health and wellbeing facilities. ### Key Considerations for Your Career Path: To excel in this role and maximise your career growth, consider the following aspects: * Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills: The ability to motivate, enthuse, and negotiate with diverse stakeholders is paramount. Your capacity to translate complex ideas into clear, actionable plans will be key. * Analytical and Problem-Solving Acumen: You will need to interpret complex information, identify knowledge gaps, and develop solutions that address the commercial, socio-economic, and sustainability needs of partner organisations. * Intellectual Curiosity and Adaptability: A genuine interest in learning about new disciplines and a willingness to ask probing questions are essential for understanding and defining project objectives. * Project Management and Proposal Development: Experience in coordinating contributions, assembling complex documentation, and preparing high-quality funding proposals will be highly advantageous. * Visa Sponsorship Potential: The position may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route, which could be a consideration for international candidates. This role is an exceptional opportunity for individuals looking to make a significant impact within the higher education and industry innovation ecosystem. It offers a blend of intellectual challenge, strategic engagement, and the chance to contribute to transformative projects.