Head of Innovation Ecosystem

Head of Innovation Ecosystem

We are seeking a talented leader to join the Newcastle Innovations Executive Team and play a central role in shaping and delivering our innovation ambition.

Working closely with the Director of Newcastle Innovations, you will:

• Develop and deliver an open, mission‑led innovation framework, translating strategy into impactful programmes and partnerships.
• Build and lead high‑value, cross‑sector collaborations, connecting partners across the quadruple helix to deliver investment, innovation and growth.
• Create and manage a strong pipeline of innovation opportunities, from early‑stage concepts through to investible propositions and large‑scale bids.
• Champion interdisciplinary working and co‑design, embedding innovation practices and skills across the University.
• Lead strategic external engagement and ecosystem development, positioning Newcastle as a partner of choice for innovation.
• Drive new approaches to business models, partnerships and place, maximising the value and impact of our activity.

You will also play a broader leadership role across Business, Innovation, Partnerships and Place, helping to shape institutional direction, strengthen capability and deliver measurable impact.

• A strong track record of leading innovation, partnerships and complex programmes.
• Deep understanding of innovation ecosystems, commercialisation and place‑based growth.
• Experience of building strategic relationships across sectors and disciplines.
• Commercial acumen and the ability to turn ideas into deliverable, investable opportunities.
• The leadership skills to inspire teams, influence stakeholders and drive change in a complex environment.

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

For more information contact Estelle Blanks, Director of Newcastle Innovations at es

£58,225 to £61,759 with progression to £67,468 per annum.