Executive Director – Sensor City, Liverpool
Business engagement with University and Academic research to develop entrepreneurial business growth
c. £80,000 plus benefits
This is an excellent opportunity for a business focussed, commercially strong relationship builder to lead the development & delivery of Sensor City Liverpool Ltd (SCLL) to establish it as a viable, well-recognised business. Building on an extensive programme of industry relevant research, the Director will accelerate innovation and business activity to a high and measurable standard to establish SCLL’s reputation as a leading centre of this technology and a partner of choice for business, academic organisations and the individuals involved. The Company seeks to foster innovation within the SME community by establishing a number of robust business-university collaborations that will promote entrepreneurship, lead to long-term economic growth, build brand reputation and encourage start-ups in sensor technologies.
Responsible to the Operations Group and reporting to the Board, the appointee will provide strong leadership to provide strategic direction, secure both public & private sector involvement & investment, attract wealth generation to deliver economic growth and foster strong relationship building across and with the sensor sectors. Acting as the single focal point for SCLL and responsible for the interaction between the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University, the incumbent will establish a network of businesses, investors and mentors that engage & support the delivery of the business plan and manage a developing team to ensure the service & supply chain is best practice. Working with a number of high profile stakeholders, the appointee will require influence, perseverance, negotiating skills and strength of character, along with strong financial acumen and broad political understanding. A self-starter, the individual will also possesses the ability and creativity to keep forward momentum within a fast moving, international business area.
Candidates, ideally qualified to degree level in a scientific discipline and with a track record of drawing in new investors, partners and securing inward investment, will demonstrate strong commercial engagement with technical businesses, along with the ability to identify, evaluate and develop new opportunities through knowledge transfer and close working with a range of research organisations. Previous experience of entrepreneurial activity and managing business growth as well as successful fundraising will be vital along with demonstrable experience of leading strategy development, tactical planning and government interaction to deliver significant commercial success. Experienced in partner collaboration at the highest level, the incumbent will demonstrate drive, tenacity, ‘presence’ and strong financial awareness coupled with exemplary communication & presentation skills. Listening, influencing and negotiation will all be key competencies along with strong analysis and decision-making skills and a positive, enthusiastic outlook, which will engage others to deliver exceptional results.
Interested applicants should send a detailed CV and covering letter quoting current salary and reference 1605/web to 1605@transitionplus.co.uk. Applications should be received by 5pm on Friday 20th May 2016. Initial discussions with the retained consultant will then lead to final shortlist Interviews which are planned for mid-June (on a date to be confirmed) in Liverpool.