Director of National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD)

Company description:

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

Job description:

Newcastle University is seeking an exceptional strategic leader to become the next Director of the National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) a national asset dedicated to closing the UK's data skills gap and accelerating innovation across industry, government, and the public sector.

Through its unique collaborative model where organisations work side-by-side with data experts, NICD builds long-term capability, supports digital transformation, and delivers real economic impact. NICD partners with businesses, public services, and government bodies, helping them improve productivity, unlock value, and grow their data confidence.

This role provides an exciting opportunity to influence national policy, shape the UK's AI and data skills landscape, and lead a high-performing team delivering impactful, real-world change.

As Director you will lead the development and delivery of long-term strategic plans for NICD, shape and influence national AI and data skills programmes aligned to organisational needs and emerging sector trends and strengthen links with Newcastle University by promoting experimental learning and enabling research impact.

You will represent NICD regionally, nationally, and internationally as a trusted leader in AI and data skills, build and sustain partnerships with government, industry, Catapult centres, funders, and universities and lead on major investment bids, securing funding to support NICD's strategic growth and national impact

You will be a recognised leader in AI, data science, or digital skills, with the strategic insight and credibility required to influence policy, build national partnerships, and deliver large‑scale programmes. You will be an outstanding communicator, a collaborative senior leader, and an advocate for innovation and inclusive practice.

How to Apply

Applications should include a CV and a detailed cover statement of no more than 2 A4 sides demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Stephanie Glendinning, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Science, Agriculture & Engineering stephanie.glendinning@newcastle.ac.uk or Nick Parker, Dean of Strategic Projects, Faculty of Science, Agriculture & Engineering nick.parker@newcastle.ac.uk

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