Chief Business Officer

Location - Primary base could be anywhere in the UK but must be willing to travel to London and elsewhere in connection with the role.

Purpose of the post

As we continue to grow and innovate, we seek a visionary and experienced Chief Business Officer (CBO) to lead the implementation of our industry strategy.

The CBO will drive strategic partnerships, business development, and customer service efforts to achieve HDR UK’s growth and strategic delivery goals. This role requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in commercial management, strong leadership skills, and a proven track record of driving business success.  The role will be part of the Chief Operating Officer’s team and work closely with our executive leadership team and senior colleagues across the HDR UK community.

The successful candidate will be involved in the following example responsibilities below:

Strategic Leadership in Industry Partnerships

• Develop and implement the HDR UK’s industry strategy in alignment with Institute mission, vision and purpose.
• Identify and assess new market opportunities, trends, and competitive dynamics to drive growth and innovation. Consider innovative business models and contractual approaches to foster cross-sector collaboration.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the primary point of contact for strategic business matters with internal and external stakeholders fostering strong relationships with key customers, partners, and stakeholders to drive impact.
• As the lead for our Industry Insight Board build and maintain strong relationships with industry leaders, partners, and key stakeholders

Mentoring and Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop an industry-facing culture for the Institute, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement noting that relevant roles may be line managed through other teams.
• Promote collaboration and effective communication across the organization.

Ways of Working

• Work as part of the Chief Operating Officer’s team – bringing experience, perspective and insight to bear on team meetings, objectives and culture
• Immersion in Institute approaches to reporting, oversight and corporate governance.
• Demonstrate values-based leadership while building a transparent portfolio of trusted strategic partnerships with industry noting the importance of public and patient involvement and engagement

Experience/Skills/Knowledge – What we are looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field and a Master’s degree (e.g., MBA) or relevant professional certification.
• Significant experience in management and evidence of successfully delivering in a very senior and business-focussed leadership role. Experience that combines industry AND in the Higher Education sector is highly desirable.
• Strong strategic planning and execution capabilities, particularly in application areas related to data and technology. Ability to navigate complex commercial environments and manage multiple priorities.
• Proven track record of driving strategic partnerships at scale and achieving business growth.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Experience of working with executive leadership teams, and boards, writing board level papers and presentations.
• Ability to build trust and confidence at the most senior level within the organisation, especially in maintaining confidentiality on sensitive issues.
• Ability to think creatively and solve problems. Open to new ideas and approaches, fostering a culture of creativity and continuous improvement.
• Highly effective networking, interpersonal and collaboration skills and the ability to establish working relationships both internally and externally. Must promote a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.
• Influencing skills to establish credibility and negotiate well with others in a way that results in acceptance and agreement. Maintains composure and focus in challenging situations, adapting to changing circumstances.

Closing Date – 19-8-25, 5pm.

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