Head of Regional and Civic Engagement

At the University of Plymouth, it is in our nature to innovate – be that in our teaching or in our research. We strive for the highest quality in all that we do; pushing boundaries isn’t just encouraged, it is expected. The University’s mission – advancing knowledge, transforming lives – is manifested in the compelling combination of first-class, innovative teaching, clusters of world-class research, and a commitment to widening participation and social inclusion, so that our students are supported and encouraged to unlock their true potential.

The University’s 2030 strategy has an ambition to provide thought-leadership, set policy agendas locally, nationally and internationally, and to communicate and engage effectively with all stakeholders, achieving influence and impact through significant industry and business partnerships.

The Research and Innovation Directorate plays a crucial role in supporting the University in these ambitions, working with academics from across the breadth of the institution’s portfolio. We have therefore created three new roles to help take this work forward; Head of Health Partnerships, Head of Environmental Sustainability Research Partnerships and Head of Regional and Civic Engagement.

Reporting to the Director of Research and Innovation, and supporting the Vice Chancellor and other senior staff, the Head of Regional and Civic Engagement will lead the University’s engagement with MPs, Local Authorities, LEPs and other regional economic, social and environmental stakeholders.

The aim is to ensure the University is proactively engaged in, and influences, regional policy agendas including the Levelling Up agenda, and is well positioned to exploit opportunities to further its mission. The role will also be responsible for the ongoing development of our Civic University Agreement, working in partnership with key organisations and agencies to develop an ongoing programme of collaborative action that addresses regional challenges around the economy, health and the environment.

You will have an in depth understanding of the HE and regional development landscapes, and experience of working proactively with both academics and a range of senior stakeholders. Proven experience in building and maintaining positive and constructive relationships with partners at a senior level is essential.

You will have excellent knowledge of the UK research and innovation funding landscape, as well as a track record of influencing major opportunities for regional funding and income generation at regional and/or national level.

You will work closely with other R&I functions including Enterprise Solutions business engagement service and the Innovation Funding team, as well as other services including External Relations.

For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Adrian Dawson:  Adrian.dawson@plymouth.ac.uk

Interviews are likely to take place week commencing Monday 13 March 2023 and you will be notified if you have been shortlisted or not.

This is a full-time position working 37 hours per week on a permanent basis.

Closing date:  12 midnight, Sunday 26 February 2023

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