Director of Research and Innovation

About this role

The University of Chichester is a top 30 university and the only university in West Sussex. It is a regional powerhouse for the local economy and we are looking to expand that impact through this new and varied role.  Reporting to the Provost and working closely with senior leadership, the Executive Deans and Heads of Schools, the postholder will support the University by driving, influencing and embedding a culture of research and innovation whilst maximising business development opportunities.  They will grow industry and business partnerships, covering the full range of engagement from student projects through to KTPs and joint funding bids. These activities will include all aspects of research, innovation, enterprise and knowledge exchange activities as well as the Apprenticeship provision. The postholder will promote the University to external stakeholders and help secure new income and revenue streams. Additionally, there is an expectation to grow the number of employers supporting Apprenticeships and the number of registered Apprenticeship students to meet the University’s performance targets.

As the focal point and lead for research outputs, the post holder will write, lead and manage the University’s Research Excellence Framework (REF) submission, revitalise and deliver our Research Strategy and ensure that research is promoted, supported and developed throughout the University. They will provide professional leadership and direction of the University’s research, innovation and business development outputs, working closely with the Senior Leadership Team on the development of the University strategic plan.

About you

The appointed postholder will have an academic and research background.  You will have an excellent knowledge of the REF, with a full understanding of both research funding landscapes and wide-ranging strategic business innovation.  Able to prioritise and concurrently manage multiple activities, you will have a strong track record of business development and research knowledge in successfully achieving objectives and delivering results through collaboration and partnerships.  To be successful in this role you will have proven business and commercial skills to identify and deliver significant income generation opportunities in innovation and research across the breadth of University activities.

About the team

The Director of Research and Innovation will lead the Research Office. This will include planning and managing all resources including staff budgets, people management and training.  You will lead, motivate and develop staff, providing clear objectives and managing performance against these, to ensure that staff are appropriately motivated and trained to carry out their responsibilities to the required standards.

Enquiries are welcomed by:

Mark Mason, University Provost (designate) via m.mason@chi.ac.uk

• Closing Date:   Sunday 13 July 2025
• Interview Date: W/C 28 July 2025              

Prior to submitting your job application kindly ensure you have considered and can demonstrate your right to work in the UK.

If you require any support with completing your application or further information on Right to Work please contact the recruitment team; staffrecruitment@chi.ac.uk

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion at every level because we believe a diverse workforce benefits us all.

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