Head of Life Sciences Development

Head of Life Sciences Sector Development

Final date to receive applications: 13 September 2026

Department:
Growth, Business and Skills

Employment Type:

Permanent - Full Time

Location:

Sheffield Head Office

Compensation: £55,949 - £59,907 / year

• Hours:
  
  37 hours per week (full time)
• Contract:
  
  Permanent
• Salary:
  Grade 12 – £55,949 to £59,907
• Location:
  
  Sheffield (Hybrid Working)

South Yorkshire has a proud history of innovation, research and industry. Today, the region is home to a growing Life Sciences sector with the potential to deliver transformative economic growth, attract investment and create high-quality jobs for local communities. At SYMCA, we're committed to accelerating that growth and ensuring South Yorkshire is recognised nationally and internationally as a place where Life Sciences businesses can start, innovate, invest and succeed.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of one of South Yorkshire's most important growth sectors. As our Head of Life Sciences Sector Development, you will work with businesses, universities, investors, government departments and regional partners to unlock opportunities, influence investment decisions and develop a clear vision for the sector's future.

Interviews will be held Tuesday 6th October 2026 - In person.

As SYMCA's lead specialist for Life Sciences, you will combine strategic thinking with practical delivery to drive sector growth across South Yorkshire. You'll act as a trusted advisor, ambassador and connector, bringing together key stakeholders to create the conditions for innovation, investment and business growth. Working at a senior level across public and private sectors, you'll help shape policy, secure opportunities and ensure the region maximises its strengths in this fast-growing and globally significant sector.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of a compelling vision and growth strategy for South Yorkshire's Life Sciences sector.
• Build influential relationships with businesses, universities, investors, government departments and sector leaders.
• Identify and attract investment opportunities that support business growth, innovation and job creation across the region.
• Champion South Yorkshire's Life Sciences strengths at regional, national and international forums.
• Support the commercialisation of innovation by helping businesses, researchers and investors connect and collaborate.
• Lead high-profile programmes and initiatives that deliver tangible outcomes for businesses and communities across South Yorkshire.

You will be a collaborative leader with a strong understanding of the Life Sciences landscape and a passion for creating opportunities that support innovation, investment and growth. Comfortable working with senior leaders and decision-makers, you'll have the ability to turn insight into action, identify opportunities for investment and build the partnerships needed to deliver long-term success.

Whether your background comes from industry, economic development, investment, academia or a related environment, you'll bring a strong understanding of the factors that help sectors grow and thrive. You'll enjoy working across organisational boundaries, influencing stakeholders and creating opportunities that deliver meaningful impact for businesses and communities alike.

We're looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience of developing and delivering sector growth strategies, economic development initiatives or major partnership programmes.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the Life Sciences sector and the opportunities and challenges shaping its future.
• A proven ability to build influential relationships across business, academia, government and investment communities.
• Experience of attracting investment, securing funding or developing compelling business and investment propositions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to represent organisations at a senior level.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate others, manage priorities and deliver measurable outcomes in a complex environment.

If you're…