Head of Partnership Development

Full time, Open-ended, Hybrid

About Research and Innovation Office at Loughborough University

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) plays a leading role in shaping and delivering the University’s research and innovation activities and provides a high quality, added value and seamless service to researchers across the research development pipeline.

The Office incorporates a number of different teams that provide support for nurturing partnerships and collaborations; identifying and applying for funding; managing research projects and assuring compliance with policy; improving the visibility of research outputs; fostering the impact, intellectual property and commercialisation of research; and the nurturing of research leadership skills through training and skills development programmes.

The RIO also works closely with other Professional Services across the University, notably Legal Services, Registry, Student Services, Finance and HR.

About the Head of Partnership Development and Knowledge Exchange role

We’re looking for an accomplished leader with a proven track record in developing high-value partnerships that accelerate growth and diversify sustainable income streams.

You will have demonstrated ability to shape market-led engagement strategies, leverage research and innovation for commercial impact, and deliver measurable financial and reputational returns. Skilled in building strong relationships, you’ll work collaboratively with academic and professional colleagues to create commercially viable collaborations that meet partner needs and enhance competitiveness. Leading others to achieve these objectives and contributing actively to the Senior Management Team, you will turn strategic vision into impactful partnerships.

If you can inspire teams and make a lasting difference, this is your opportunity to do so.

For more information, refer to the full Job Description and Person Specification.

If you have any questions about this role, please contact rio.hr@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk

Apply Now

Please submit your application through our online portal.

Applications will be assessed against the essential and desirable criteria outlined in the Job Description and Person Specification. Applicants are strongly advised to explicitly state and evidence how they meet each of the criteria in their application.

The closing date for receipt of applications midnight on 13 February 2026. 

The selection process will include an initial longlist call week commencing 23 February and a final in-person interview scheduled for week commencing 2 March 2026.

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