Head of Knowledge Exchange

Our newly created Research and Enterprise Directorate (RED) will drive positive change and significant growth across the University of Wolverhampton and through our engagement with external partners and stakeholders. We have a number of newly established critical roles available in the Directorate and we are ready to invite applications from talented, experienced, ambitious, and enthusiastic colleagues who embody the university values and behaviours: - Inclusive, Accountable, Ambitious and Resilient.

We need an excellent candidate to provide strategic leadership in the growth and development of Knowledge Exchange, including Commercialisation, Intellectual Property (IP), Continuous Professional Development (CPD), Regional Development, Public and Community Engagement and Enterprise.

You will play a key role in leading existing and new knowledge exchange initiatives and seek to develop, maintain and expand working relationships with external partners as well as identify commercial opportunities for growth and income.

You will take responsibility for staff development, and training within the team, ensuring all staff have the necessary skills and experience to provide the support required alongside devising, managing, supporting and monitoring the delivery of a suite of training and development opportunities for university staff related to KE and Enterprise activity.

We are looking for someone with strong interpersonal skills and an extensive academic and/or professional background in knowledge exchange. You will need to demonstrate a high level of emotional intelligence and have the ability to develop strong working relationships with staff at all levels across the University to ensure quality service delivery, demonstrating political awareness, diplomacy and tact. You will need proven experience of managing and motivating a team; outstanding leadership skills; proven analytical and problem-solving capability; excellent communication skills, verbal and written and to present coherent arguments to achieve the desired outcome and excellent presentation skills to communicate effectively in all situations to varied audiences. You will also have a proven track record of supporting KE and Enterprise activities and developments; extensive knowledge of Government policies and priorities in relation to university business, engagement and UK industrial strategy and an understanding of the Knowledge Exchange Framework, HEBCIs and KEF Concordat.

Join the University of Wolverhampton at this exciting time of ambition and growth in research and enterprise. Be part of a directorate that is committed to driving and supporting a vibrant and effective research and enterprise culture, committed to delivering excellence and making a real difference to the university, partners and communities we serve.

Staff Benefits

You may be eligible to choose from a number of benefits during your appointment, subject to any rules applicable to the relevant benefit (as amended from time to time). Further details of these benefits are available on the intranet.

We believe employees should be recognised for their hard work and contribution to the University's growth and success and offer an attractive range of competitive benefits to all staff:

University of Wolverhampton Recruitment Statement

Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom

The University of Wolverhampton recognises and protects the rights to freedom of speech and academic freedom, within the law.

We are committed to ensuring that lawful expression of ideas, beliefs and opinions — including those that may be controversial or unpopular — does not result in disadvantage in recruitment, employment or progression.

An offer of employment at the University of Wolverhampton will never be denied based on an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Wolverhampton is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

We are committed to:

• preventing unlawful discrimination and harassment.
• promoting equality of opportunity.
• fostering an inclusive environment where colleagues are treated with dignity and respect.

We strive to create a workplace in which colleagues have the confidence and freedom to be themselves, while working professionally and in accordance with equality legislation and University policies.

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

We recognise that applicants may use AI tools to support the preparation of their applications. However, submissions must reflect your own experience, achievements and motivations.

We want to understand what you personally bring to the role. Please ensure your application accurately represents your own voice and capabilities.

Flexible Working

We recognise the value of flexible working arrangements and are open to discussion wherever possible.