Head of Innovation

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Due to the continued development and expansion of our specialists within the ID Manchester (IDM) project team, we're now looking for a passionate Head of Innovation to join us on our journey to develop one of the most influential tech eco-systems in the UK.

IDM is a joint venture (JV) between The University of Manchester and Bruntwood SciTech that will transform the University's former north campus into a new neighbourhood and innovation platform.

Based in the heart of Manchester City Centre and set over 4m sq ft, IDM will be recognised internationally as one of the world's leading applied innovation districts. It will enable resilient and sustainable growth across the city region, creating over 10,000 jobs and delivering over 2m sq ft of office, innovation, retail and leisure spaces, new homes and a variety of nature-led public spaces.

Relationships:

As part of the IDM project team you'll work in a start-up environment, akin to the communities you're building, with the support and tools from Bruntwood SciTech and The University of Manchester. Working closely with stakeholders and colleagues from each institution.

Job purpose:

As the Head of Innovation for ID Manchester specifically, you'll take the lead role in developing a vibrant and sustainable community of growth-focused science and tech based businesses. If you're an experienced innovation expert with a passion for supporting and embedding a culture of innovation and enterprise for an aspirational and pioneering project, then this is the role for you.

What you'll be doing:

• Be the primary interface between the early stage businesses (both spinouts and startups) and partners within the IDM community as well as, sponsors and external partners.
• Work closely with the specialist team including the Community Impact Manager to build on existing relationships and develop new innovation-led partnership opportunities.
• Manage the enquiry pipeline and play a role in sourcing and reviewing new entrants into the innovation ecosystem, specifically the Renold Innovation Hub for early-stage start-ups and university spin-outs.
• Signpost to support programmes available in Renold such as the Turing Innovation Catalyst, Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Catalyst, Pankhurst Institute, and InnovationFactory.
• Set up and manage the selection process of applicants for the ecosystem.
• Define individual objectives and business support activities, including workshops, events, demonstrations etc.
• Induct new entrepreneurs and assist them in making the most of their experience at IDM, with a particular focus on business growth support.
• Identify and facilitate collaboration opportunities between the IDM entrepreneurs/innovators and wider ecosystem partners and customers
• Report on a regular basis ecosystem performance.
• Undertake competitor analysis and market monitoring of similar offerings locally, nationally and globally, and benchmark against best practice, making continuous improvement recommendations for the ecosystem.

What we're looking for:

• Well networked in the innovation landscape with experience of accelerator/business growth programmes.
• Experience and expertise within some of our target sectors which include: Digital & AI, health innovation & advanced materials.
• Previous experience of supporting innovation programmes and/or experience of working within a start-up environment or alongside start-ups and SMEs.
• Experience of building effective working relationships, and of working in partnership with delivery partners, external suppliers and businesses.
• You'll be comfortable in a startup environment, leading and strategising, yet also willing to roll up your sleeves and get into the detail of programmes when needed.
• You'll work collaboratively with stakeholders both internally and externally, presenting strategies clearly and concisely as well as pivoting on priorities when needed.
• Demonstrate natural ability and personality that will build and maintain personal credibility with client and partner relationships.
• A sense of shared values and outlook aligned to the IDM Team Principles .

We really believe that if you're brilliant to work with, you deserve brilliant things in return:

• 28 days holiday plus you get your Birthday off work - and if that's not enough you can also buy & sell holidays too
• 24 hours a year volunteer time - there are endless opportunities for you to get involved in supporting the causes that matter most to you
• Sabbatical of up to 12 months so you can take a career break after five years with us
• Free Healthcare cash plan for all colleagues, so you can claim back medical expenses like optical, dentist & physiotherapy. We also offer free private healthcare cover on an opt in basis too
• Life assurance cover for all colleagues
• Up to 8% matched pension scheme
• Discounts & cashback at leading retailers
• Enhanced maternity - 26 weeks fully paid leave
• Interest free loans to pursue your passions and apply for up to £2000 towards learning a new skills

In addition to what to expect within the role and your benefits, it's good to know that you'll be working for a business that gives back - The Oglesby Charitable Trust has donated more than £30m since it started out in 2001. Supporting charities across Arts and Culture, Education, Environment, Medical Research and Social & Health Inequality.

As ID Manchester is a joint venture between Bruntwood SciTech & University of Manchester - we'll be sharing applicant details with both parties. If you have concerns about this please email talent@bruntwood.co.uk to discuss this further or message Christian Bloor on LinkedIn.

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