Business Development and Partnerships Officer

Inspiring a new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs

The University of Southampton Business School (USBS) is located at the heart of the University of Southampton, a founding member of the UK Russell Group. USBS hosts a vibrant and diverse community of scholars and students, covering all core business and management disciplines across six departments:
Accounting, Banking and Finance, Decision Analytics and Risk, Digital and Data‑Driven Marketing, Human Resource Management and Organisational Behaviour, and Strategy Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Our academics conduct cutting‑edge research and publish consistently in world‑class journals. The school’s enterprise and educational activities are underpinned by strong research, with an extensive portfolio accredited by 14 professional bodies, aimed at developing future leaders to make a tangible impact on business and society.

Our triple‑helix model intertwines research, education and enterprise, reinforcing connections with the wider university and surrounding communities to deliver impactful research and improve the student learning experience.

• Work closely with the Associate Dean for Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise to develop the business interface and partnerships agenda, building new partnership initiatives to drive the School forward.
• Nurture collaborations that showcase impact and generate revenue for the School.
• Identify partners, establish relationships, develop and promote services, embed partnerships into the core curriculum, and design a range of non‑accredited short courses.
• Develop and organise enterprise activities and partnerships, including conferences, seminars and master classes.

Required experience and skills:

• Significant experience building and sustaining partnerships in a commercial or hybrid academic–commercial setting.
• Strong project‑management skills and an enterprising, self‑starter attitude.
• Strategic thinking, effective planning, and the ability to negotiate productive partnerships.
• A keen appreciation of current trends and issues in higher education (a background in higher education is not essential).

We support a flexible approach to work, a generous holiday allowance, and a range of additional benefits. You will have access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme, subsidised health and fitness facilities, and a number of discounts. Southampton offers a dynamic, vibrant city experience that caters to all life stages.

We aim to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, and we are passionate about creating a working environment where you are free to bring your whole self to work.