We are the University of Cumbria, for and from Cumbria and our localities, rooted in serving our communities, with people, place and partnership at our heart. Now is a very exciting time to be joining us because we are delivering a new "Towards 2030" strategic plan focused on making the most of our three most valuable assets; People, Place and Partnerships, to become a catalyst for economic well-being for our region, nationally and internationally.
The Research and Knowledge Exchange Directorate (RKE) at the University of Cumbria is currently seeking an experienced Business Development Manager. This is a particularly exciting time to join our Directorate as we are significantly investing in Research and Knowledge Exchange, bringing in additional capacity, expertise, and development opportunities.
Reporting to the Head of Research and Knowledge Exchange, you will play a key part in supporting the University realise its ambitions in relation to increasing income from knowledge exchange (KE) activities. You will assist academic staff and researchers with identifying and securing funding for KE activities including consultancy, contract research, collaborative research, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP), and also help with commercialising the University IP.
You will be responsible for coordinating the development, writing and submission of PQQs, tenders and grant applications to funding agencies and assisting academic colleagues with developing partnerships and collaborations.
The Business Development Manager will lead on the costing and pricing of KE proposals and will be the main point of contact for external KE funding for academics. You will be instrumental in supporting the development of high-quality funding proposals and will also be responsible for liaising with clients, partners and funders.
When applying, please ensure you address the essential and desirable criteria mentioned in the person specification document by submitting a statement in support of your application.
Informal Enquiries: Anish Kurien, Head of Research and Knowledge Exchange at
[email protected].
We are looking for a driven and experienced individual with a can-do attitude and excellent communication skills.
In return, we offer a comprehensive set of staff benefits which includes a competitive salary, 35 days holiday plus bank holidays, hybrid working in line with business needs, and an excellent pension scheme. For more information, please click HERE
Further details:
Job Description
We encourage applications from the broadest range of society, including all under-represented groups with particular emphasis on Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented in our University and in comparison, to the sector.
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Job Details
Department
Knowledge Exchange
Location
Lancaster or Carlisle
Starting Salary
£38,784 with incremental progression to £43,482
Post Type
Full Time
Contract Type
Permanent
Release Date
Friday 28 August 2026
Closing Date
23.59 hours BST on Friday 25 September 2026
Interview Date
To be confirmed
Reference
XX162826
