International Marketing and Business Development KTP Associate

This KTP project aims to innovate the business model of a Birmingham-based, industry-leading manufacturer specialised in material handling equipment. The company seeks a KTP Associate who can apply business model innovation techniques and international marketing research to develop solution-oriented offerings for global markets. 

The role offers an exciting opportunity to work in an ambitious, fast-paced company on a strong revenue growth trajectory. Based in a location well connected to Birmingham’s city centre by public transport or walking, the position requires a strong work ethic, creativity, and autonomy, allowing the Associate to take ownership of impactful initiatives. 

Candidate Profile: 

Qualified to MSc level, ideally with a BSc in industrial or mechanical engineering, followed by an MSc or MBA with modules in international marketing and business model innovation.

Skills/ experience required include:

Essential for the role:

Business model innovation frameworksB2B sales and marketing techniquesInternational marketing methodologiesStrategic change management in complex and dynamic environmentsEngaging and managing stakeholders to drive business growth and success

Desirable for the role:

At least two years of hands-on industrial experience in international marketing, global branding or business model innovation are strongly desirable.

Main responsibilities: 

Value proposition (re)design using business model innovation frameworksValue network (re)design using appropriate frameworks and toolsInternational competitor analysisInternational market segmentationInternational marketing strategy developmentSupply chain relationship managementEmbedding skills, knowledge, frameworks and tools in the organisationPromoting entrepreneurial thinking in the organisation

Personal attributes:

Resilience and ability to work in a complex and dynamic international contextStrong interpersonal skills to successfully work with various stakeholders.Strong communication and presentation skills. Ability to work within a cross-disciplinary project team.Leadership qualities, strong self-organization, and time management skills. Ability to work independently and use initiative.Strong desire to pursue innovative approaches and pathways.

Additional Benefits and support:

Up to £4,000 for personal and professional development for the duration of the projectAnnual leave (25 days p/a)Professional support and mentorshipMental Health and wellbeing support: https://www.aston.ac.uk/staff-public/hr/Benefits-and-Rewards/health-wellbeing A flexible blend of on-site and remote working arrangements can be negotiated in case of positive ongoing performance.

Career prospects: 

This job paves the way for a brilliant career in new business development and/or marketing. Remarkably, 60% of our KTP associates are being offered employment by the companies at the end of the KTP. 

This is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). It is essential you understand how KTP works and the vital role you will play if you secure this position. To learn more please visit: www.aston.ac.uk/ktp

The Company: A Birmingham-based, industry-leading manufacturer, specialized in engineering and producing material handling equipment.

Aston University: You will work in a project team consisting of Dr Reza Marvi, Dr Wendy Tabrizi, Dr Geoff Parkes, Dr Antonio Masi and Mr Ian McKechnie from Aston University and the Senior Management Team of the company, with the support of the IUK’s Knowledge Transfer Adviser.  

Location: You will be based at Central Birmingham, West Midlands, and you will also have access to the facilities at Aston University. Some travel to Aston University and key clients will be required. 

For informal enquiries about this role please contact Dr Reza Marvi, e-mail: r.marvi@aston.ac.uk 

If you think this isn’t the right opportunity for you, please explore other KTP vacancies across the country: https://www.ktp-uk.org/jobs/ 

Aston University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter http://www.ecu.ac.uk/equality-charter-marks/athena-swan . We pride ourselves on our vibrant, friendly, supportive working environment and collaborative atmosphere.

Please visit our website https://jobs.aston.ac.uk/Vacancies.aspx for further information and to apply online.  

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

This role is likely to meet the criteria for endorsement under the ‘Endorsed Funder’ route of the Global Talent visa. The Global Talent visa route is available for talented and promising academics, researchers and specialists who are working in the fields of science, engineering, medicine, the social sciences or the humanities. Please see the published Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent. 

Closing Date: 30 Apr 2025

Unit: Teaching & Research

Salary: £37,000 to £39,000 per annum