About Unit M:
Launched in Autumn 2024, Unit M exists to unlock the University's full potential as one of the North of England's largest innovation assets by making the University's world class research, innovation capabilities and talent more accessible to all.
It's remit is to accelerate the development of a global competitive, inclusive and impactful innovation ecosystem - from ideation and research translation, start up and scale up support, place making, talent and skills, community building and more - which systematically breaking down barriers to the flow of ideas between the University and its partners. Unit M is expected to attract, generate and mobilise significant external funding - from industry, investors, philanthropy and public sources - to sustain and scale innovation activity and create new, sustainable funding streams.
Some of the things you might find yourself doing include:
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Lead the design and evolution of programme content and delivery models, ensuring alignment with emerging sector trends and stakeholder priorities.
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Take accountability for programme delivery, including timelines, budgets and evaluation to maximise impact and outcomes.
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Lead the delivery and growth of accelerator activity, initially through the Deep Tech Innovation Programme (DTIP), with scope to expand into additional sector areas.
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Build strategic connections with customers, investors and partners to accelerate business growth and commercial opportunities.
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Provide tailored guidance to participants on business models, market strategy and growth planning.
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Develop and maintain strong stakeholder relationships across regional and national networks to enhance programme reach and reputation.
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Lead investor and mentor engagement throughout the programme lifecycle to strengthen participant outcomes and investment readiness.
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Establish and lead a high-performing team, providing effective line management, coaching and leadership to support delivery and continuous improvement.
What You’ll Bring:
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Significant experience designing and delivering accelerator or enterprise programmes within innovation ecosystems.
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Deep understanding of start-up development, research commercialisation and venture building processes.
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Experience leading programmes within complex organisations such as universities, public sector organisations or innovation networks.
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Advanced programme management capability, including experience managing budgets, funding compliance and multi-stakeholder delivery.
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Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills, with the ability to work across investors, corporates, academic teams and policymakers and represent programmes internally and externally.
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Experience supporting start-ups through investment readiness, scaling challenges and market entry strategies.
What You’ll Get:
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29 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and December closure days
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Generous pension scheme
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Flexible and hybrid working
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Access to a wide range of staff benefits, including discounts, wellbeing support, and development programmes
Explore full benefits: www.manchester.ac.uk/connect/jobs/benefits-working-here
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