Business & Innovation Senior Partner (FMS)

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.

We are seeking experienced and highly credible professionals to join Newcastle Innovations in a pivotal role working at the interface of academia, industry and innovation.

As a Business and Innovation Senior Partner, you will act as a trusted advisor and delivery partner to the Faculty of Medical Sciences shaping and delivering innovation and engagement activity aligned with institutional and faculty priorities. You will play a central role in translating world-class research and education into real-world outcomes, driving partnerships, income growth and impact.

What will you do
Working closely with Faculty leadership, you will:

• Act as the primary relationship lead between the Faculty of Medical Sciences and Newcastle Innovations, designing and delivering innovation activity aligned to strategic priorities.
• Support colleagues to translate research into application, delivering measurable economic and societal impact.
• Build and manage high-value partnerships with industry, government, NHS and other stakeholders, including negotiation and oversight.
• Develop a strong pipeline of innovation projects and investible propositions, embedding interdisciplinary and co-designed approaches.
• Lead or support large, complex bids and business cases, aligned with UKRI, Innovate UK, Horizon Europe and other funding opportunities.
• Drive contract research and clinical trial activity, working across academic, commercial and NHS partners.
• Lead horizon scanning and funding intelligence, identifying new opportunities and shaping strategic responses.
• Embed innovation capability across the University, including design thinking, co-creation and innovation skills development.

You will work closely with the Head of Innovation Ecosystem and wider Newcastle Innovations team to connect Faculty priorities into broader innovation programmes and partnerships, ensuring the University is positioned at the heart of thriving regional, national and global ecosystems.

About you
You will bring:

• A strong track record in business development, innovation or knowledge exchange.
• Deep understanding of the UK innovation and funding landscape.
• Expertise (business or research) in disciplines related to medical sciences.
• Experience of building and managing strategic partnerships and complex projects.
• The ability to translate ideas into funded, deliverable opportunities.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, negotiation and influencing skills.
• A collaborative, proactive and resilient approach, with the confidence to operate at senior levels.

Why join us?
You will be part of a university that is:

• A trusted civic partner with global reach.
• Committed to turning research into real-world impact.
• Investing in a bold, integrated approach to innovation and partnerships.
• Focused on delivering economic, societal and environmental benefit.

Together, we are building the next generation of innovation, connecting people, ideas and opportunities to shape a better future.

For more information about this role feel free to contact Estelle Blanks, Director of Business Development & Enterprise at estelle.blanks@newcastle.ac.uk.

To apply please upload your CV and cover letter evidencing how your skills and experiences align to the skills, knowledge and experience criteria as outlined within the job description found here.

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