The University of Lincoln is investing in the transformation of Riseholme Campus into a nationally significant centre for agri-tech innovation, commercialisation, and enterprise. This is a major institutional priority, central to our ambition to become a top 40 UK university and a global leader in innovation.
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Business Development & Partnerships Manager (Agri-tech) to lead commercial, tenant, and partnership development for the Lincoln Agri-Tech Innovation Park (LAIP) at Riseholme.
You will play a crucial role in establishing the park as a nationally recognised centre for research translation, commercial growth, and innovation partnership — shaping the tenant pipeline, investor relationships, and commercial value proposition that will underpin long-term success.
Working closely with the Lincoln Institution of Agri-food Technology (LIAT), Strategic Project Development Lead, Head of Business Incubation and Growth, and wider University stakeholders, you will strengthen relationships with industry, investors, innovation ecosystem partners (including Barclays Eagle Labs), and agri-tech businesses across the UK and beyond.
What you’ll be responsible for
Strategic Business Development
-
Developing and managing the anchor tenant and SME pipeline aligned to LAIP's vision and sector positioning.
-
Creating and refining LAIP’s commercial value proposition, including facilities offer, pricing, narrative, and market positioning.
-
Supporting engagement with investors, developers, corporate R&D partners, and funding bodies.
Partnership & Ecosystem Development
-
Acting as the primary liaison for investors, Barclays Eagle Labs, industry partners, and innovation clusters.
-
Building structured partnership frameworks with industry bodies, accelerators, government agencies, and tech clusters.
-
Designing and delivering Investor Days, sector engagement events, and external promotion activity.
Commercial & Tenancy Management
-
Working with Estates, Legal, and the Property Manager to shape tenancy mix, negotiate commercial terms, and develop onboarding processes.
-
Contributing to the development of operational and service charge models.
-
Informing facility specifications, space design, and masterplanning based on industry demand.
Business Support & Innovation Services
-
Contributing to the design of founder support programmes, mentoring pathways, and business clinics.
-
Connecting industry tenants and partners with LIAT research teams, testbeds, demonstrators, and collaborative R&D opportunities.
Marketing, Communications & Profile Building
-
Leading development of commercial messaging, pitch materials, and external-facing content for Lincoln Agri-tech Innovation Park.
-
Representing the University at regional and national forums across agri-tech, investment, and innovation.
Performance, Monitoring & Reporting
-
Developing and tracking KPIs including occupancy, income generation, investment secured, and partnership impacts.
-
Providing high-quality reporting for senior leadership, governance groups, and the LAIP Strategic Oversight Committee.
What you’ll bring
You will bring a strong track record in business development, commercialisation, or innovation partnership roles — ideally within agri-tech, R&D, or technology-led environments.
You will demonstrate:
-
Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
-
Experience developing commercial partnerships and negotiating agreements.
-
Ability to build high-value relationships with industry, investors, and ecosystem partners.
-
Strong understanding of innovation ecosystems, research translation, or technology commercialisation.
-
A proactive, strategic, and relationship‑driven approach.
-
A strong interest in agri-tech, innovation, or place‑based development.
