Executive Director for Research and Innovation

The role

We’re looking for a new Executive Director for Research and Innovation - a key strategic leadership role within the Division of Research, Enterprise and Innovation. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and Registrar, you will guide the research and innovation strategy to enhance our institution’s reputation and impact, cementing us firmly into the world’s top 50 research-intensive universities. As a critical member of our Professional Services Leadership group, you’ll collaborate closely with senior academic and administrative leaders, shaping a unified and ambitious approach to research excellence.

What will you be doing?

In this role, you will:

• Lead the university’s initiatives to scale, innovate, and improve research quality and outcomes, aligning with strategic UK and global societal goals.
• Foster a collaborative culture across faculties, promoting shared goals and breaking down barriers to effective strategic delivery.
• Oversee and continuously improve the activities of the Research, Enterprise, and Innovation Division, creating impactful programs and partnerships.
• Drive the sustainable growth of research, including securing funding, enhancing knowledge exchange, and expanding enterprise initiatives.
• Represent the university externally to stakeholders and policymakers, both nationally and internationally, as a champion of our research impact.
• Guide the strategic development and financial planning of the division, ensuring resources are effectively managed to maximize outcomes.
• Lead a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the team, ensuring high standards and staff wellbeing.

You should apply if

To excel in this role, you will bring:

• A professional qualification or relevant degree with extensive senior experience in research, innovation, or enterprise leadership.
• Expertise in managing complex, cross-functional operations within the higher education research environment.
• Proven people and change management skills, with a talent for motivating and influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong strategic thinking abilities, with a track record of developing and implementing impactful, forward-thinking initiatives.
• Financial acumen and experience managing significant budgets to support strategic goals.
• Insight into national and international research landscapes and trends, with a vision for how to leverage these for institutional success.
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills, enabling effective relationships with senior leaders, policymakers, and other key stakeholders.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of research and innovation within a world-class institution. If you’re a visionary leader ready to make a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Additional information

The closing date for applications is 23.59 on Wednesday 13 November.

To apply, please submit a comprehensive CV along with a covering letter setting out your interest in the role and how you meet the required criteria.

Informal enquiries about the role should be directed to Liam Taylor, Head of Resourcing (liam.taylor@bristol.ac.uk).

Please note that interviews are anticipated to take place week commencing 2nd December.

Should you require an alternative method for application due to disability, please request this at uobrecruitment-adjustments@bristol.ac.uk