Head of the Research Development & Innovation Team

We are seeking an exceptional leader to head our Research Development & Innovation Team within the Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health. In this senior strategic role, you will drive the development and delivery of our research, innovation and business engagement priorities, building strong partnerships across the University and with major industrial, academic and funding stakeholders. You will lead a high‑performing professional team, shape major collaborative funding initiatives, and provide senior-level expertise to support the Faculty’s research strengths and future opportunities. This is a dynamic, outward‑facing position ideal for someone with substantial leadership experience, excellent negotiation and relationship‑building skills, and a passion for enabling world‑class research and innovation. This post is available for one year from June 2026.

In this role, you’ll:

• Provide leadership across research development, business engagement and innovation.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with industry, funding bodies and national organisations.
• Oversee major multi‑partner funding bids and support large‑scale collaborative initiatives.
• Guide strategic planning, foster a culture of innovation and support University‑wide priorities.
• Manage a talented team delivering high‑quality professional services and impactful outcomes.

Potential interview date - 21 April 2026

What will you get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to people.talent@manchester.ac.uk

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Jessica Bowler

Email: jessica.bowler@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.