Chief Executive Officer — Global Innovation Leader

University of Manchester; Oxford; On-site; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a Chief Executive Officer for Unit M, their new innovation capability. This role focuses on delivering impact and driving growth within the innovation landscape. The successful candidate will lead the development of partnerships and strategies, engage stakeholders effectively, and promote the university's innovation agenda. Potential candidates will have extensive experience in innovation ecosystems and a collaborative leadership approach, with an opportunity to significantly contribute to the region's economic trajectory.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of innovation ecosystems and place-based innovation.
• Credibility and networks across the innovation economy.
• Experience of developing and delivering transformational strategies.
• Track record of leading scaling, multidisciplinary teams.
• Collaborative style with ability to influence diverse stakeholders.
• Engagement with government and policy stakeholders.
• Ability to act as a compelling figurehead for innovation.

Responsibilities

• Lead Unit M’s growth, establishing structures and partnerships.
• Shape and deliver the annual business plan, focusing on outcomes.
• Play a pivotal role in the University’s 2035 strategy.
• Act as ambassador for Unit M and the innovation agenda.
• Inspire the core team and take leadership responsibility.
• Champion innovation values in all actions.

Skills

Knowledge of innovation ecosystems

Established credibility and networks

Transformational innovation strategies

Leading high-performing teams

Collaborative leadership style

Engagement with government and policy

Compelling figurehead for innovation

Job description

A leading UK university is seeking a Chief Executive Officer for Unit M, their new innovation capability. This role focuses on delivering impact and driving growth within the innovation landscape. The successful candidate will lead the development of partnerships and strategies, engage stakeholders effectively, and promote the university's innovation agenda. Potential candidates will have extensive experience in innovation ecosystems and a collaborative leadership approach, with an opportunity to significantly contribute to the region's economic trajectory.